Audio Research. American Vacuum Tube Excellence Since 1970
Founded in 1970 by William Z. Johnson in Minneapolis, Audio Research is a legendary American brand devoted to advancing the state of the art in high-end vacuum tube audio reproduction. As a pioneer in high-definition amplification and preamplification, the company blends precise engineering with critical listening, assembling every unit by hand at its Maple Grove, Minnesota facility.
Audio Research is renowned for its power amplifiers, preamplifiers, integrated amps, phono stages, and DACs, all celebrated for their musicality, transparency, and exceptional build quality. The brand also maintains a dedicated service department for both current and legacy models, ensuring long-term support and reliability.
The brand manufactures tube-based amplifiers and preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, phono stages, digital sources (CD/DAC), and high-end audio solutions for audiophiles.
Each component is the result of precision engineering combined with subjective listening tests. All products are hand-assembled and point-to-point soldered by expert technicians, and each unit undergoes rigorous sound and performance testing.
All manufacturing takes place in Maple Grove, Minnesota (USA) at a 1,400 m² facility, with most parts custom-built in-house to ensure strict quality control.
Founded by Johnson after running a Hi-Fi store, Audio Research helped revive tube amplification in the Hi-Fi world. It was acquired by Fine Sounds (now McIntosh Group) in 2008, by TWS Enterprises in 2020, and by Valerio Cora in 2023, who aims to preserve its legacy.
Because it delivers realistic, detailed, and emotionally engaging sound. Their products retain high resale value, with full technical support for even vintage models—making them a long-term investment for serious audiophiles.
