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Reference 160 S Power Amplifier
Reference 160 S Power Amplifier
$49,995
Enquire about this productThe Audio Research Reference 160 S Power Amplifier delivers 140 watts of continuous power with unmatched clarity and musicality. This vacuum-tube design features dual GhostMeters™, switchable Triode or Ultralinear modes, and advanced auto-bias circuitry, making it a top-tier option for audiophiles. Experience the pinnacle of power amplification by scheduling a demonstration at Len Wallis Audio. Due to its premium nature, this product is available for in-store purchase only.
**Special order for black finish**
Local pickup or $11 flat rate shipping within Australia
The Audio Research Reference 160 S Power Amplifier is a masterclass in audio design, blending cutting-edge technology with the time-honored traditions of vacuum-tube amplification. This amplifier continues the legacy of the internationally acclaimed 160M monaural amplifier, offering the same stunning sonic performance in a more attainable stereo format. The Reference 160 S has been meticulously designed for music lovers who appreciate purity, resolution, and dynamic impact in their sound reproduction.
The Reference 160 S Power Amplifier delivers 140 watts of continuous power from 20Hz to 20kHz, providing a wide frequency range that captures every nuance of your music. This amplifier is built with dual GhostMeters™, a signature feature of Audio Research’s Reference series, which offers a visually striking floating meter display. Beyond aesthetics, the 160 S is engineered with auto-bias circuitry to ensure optimal tube performance, even as tubes age or powerline voltage fluctuates.
One of the key features of the 160 S is its Triode or Ultralinear mode switching, giving users the flexibility to tailor the amplifier’s sound based on personal preference or speaker requirements. Whether you’re using it in Triode mode for a warmer, more intimate sound or Ultralinear mode for greater power and dynamic range, this amplifier adapts to your needs seamlessly. The Reference 160 S uses balanced and single-ended inputs for maximum compatibility with various audio systems, and its fully balanced design ensures minimal distortion and ultimate clarity.
Another standout feature is the four-layer circuit board, which allows the amplifier to project music against a jet-black background, making even the finest details of the recording come to life. The sound is projected with astonishing resolution and depth, allowing listeners to feel as if they are in the presence of a live musical performance. The 160 S pairs exceptionally well with high-end speakers from brands like Wilson Audio, Sonus faber, and Magnepan, making it a versatile choice for serious audiophiles.
Built for the Music Lover in Mind
Crafted by hand in Audio Research’s Maple Grove, Minnesota facility, the Reference 160 S Power Amplifier is designed to bring music to life in every sense. From the smallest whisper to the loudest crescendo, the 160 S excels at capturing the full dynamic range of your favorite recordings. The amplifier’s four KT150 output tubes and four 6H30 tubes in the gain stage contribute to its extraordinary performance, offering both power and finesse.
The amplifier is not only a sonic powerhouse but also a visual masterpiece. It shares the same dimensions as the Reference 160M, featuring a sturdy chassis that includes rear handles to make positioning easier. In addition, it has 120mm low-profile fans integrated into the bottom cover plate to provide silent and efficient cooling, ensuring reliable performance even during extended listening sessions.
Showroom Demonstration
We encourage you to visit Len Wallis Audio to experience the full potential of the Audio Research Reference 160 S Power Amplifier. Given its premium price (over $40,000) and complex nature, this amplifier is available for in-store purchase only. A live demonstration will allow you to experience firsthand the Reference 160 S’s ability to elevate any audio system. Our expert staff will guide you through its features and help you understand how it can enhance your listening experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just beginning to explore the world of high-end audio, the Reference 160 S Power Amplifier will offer a transformative experience. Its ability to deliver music with emotional depth, clarity, and precision is unparalleled, making it a must-hear component for anyone serious about sound.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 140 watts continuous from 20Hz to 20kHz. 1kHz THD typically 1% at 140 watts, below 0.04% at 1 watt. |
| Power Bandwidth | (-3dB Points) 5Hz to 70kHz |
| Frequency Response | (-3dB points at 1 watt) 0.5Hz to 110kHz |
| Input Sensitivity | 2.4V RMS Balanced for rated output (25.5 dB gain into 8 ohms) |
| Input Impedance | 300k ohms Balanced; 100k ohms Single-ended |
| Output Taps | 16 ohms, 8 ohms, 4 ohms |
| Output Polarity | Non-inverting (Balanced input pin 2+) |
| Output Regulation | Approximately 0.6dB 16 Ohm Load to Open Circuit (Damping factor approximately 14) |
| Power Requirements | 105-130VAC 60Hz (210-250VAC 50Hz) 875 watts at rated output, 700 watts in Triode mode, 500 watts at idle, 3.6 watts off |
| Tubes Required | 4 matched pair KT150 (Power output V1-V4); 4 6H30 (Gain stage V5 and V6) |
| Dimensions | Width: 48.26 cm, Height: 26 cm, Depth: 54.61 cm. With Handles and Connectors: 60.96 cm |
| Weight | 45.36 kg |
Visit Len Wallis Audio today to discover how the Audio Research Reference 160 S Power Amplifier can transform your audio system. Our team is ready to guide you through every detail of this remarkable amplifier, ensuring you get the most out of your listening experience.
| Brand | |
|---|---|
| Colour | Black, Silver |
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At Len Wallis Audio, whether you’re purchasing in store, over the phone or online through our ecommerce store, we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase.
Our Refund, Return and Repairs Policy is here to clarify any concerns or questions you might have prior to you making a purchase from us. This way you can be sure of our policy on refunds, returns and repairs and your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
We also recommend you immediately inspect any goods that you receive from us to ensure you are completely satisfied with the goods, including that the goods are of acceptable quality, and match the description we have provided to you.
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact us at sales@lenwalluisaudio.com.au or 02 9427 6755
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- Please do not send your purchase back to the original manufacturer.
- There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable). For example:
- Any item not in its original condition, is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
- Any item that is returned for reason of change of mind more than 14 days after delivery or purchase from the store.
Consumer Guarantees and Your Rights under the Australian Consumer Law
Refer to our page for more information.
Goods Damaged in Transit.
If any goods arrive damaged, please contact us as soon as possible. Len Wallis Audio will arrange to have the damaged goods returned and either arrange for a replacement of the goods or refund the price to you. Damaged goods must be returned in the condition received by you with all original packaging, accessories and/or manuals.
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Where Len Wallis Audio considers the goods to have breached a consumer guarantee, any shipping costs to return the goods to Len Wallis Audio will be at our cost.
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You may visit Len Wallis Audio and a staff member will assist you with any return or repair. This may include inspecting the goods, arranging for the goods to be repaired, or providing you with a replacement.
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If any goods cannot be easily returned to us due to their size, the fault or because they have been affixed or installed in your premises, please contact us and we will arrange an inspection to assess the goods.
Goods returned for repair will be assessed and/or repaired within a reasonable time. You may be provided with an indicative repair time, which time may vary due to reasons beyond ours or the repairer’s reasonable control, such as part availability and incorrect fault description.
You may be required to pay labour, assessment and/or freight fees, such as where goods are assessed to have been damaged by misuse or accident, or where your rights under the Australian Consumer Law or any manufacturer’s warranty do not apply. We may provide you with an indicative fee, which may vary due to reasons beyond our control.
If any goods that you return are capable of retaining user generated data such as files stored on a hard drive, and songs stored on a portable media player, the replacement or repair of the goods may result in loss of the data. In these circumstances, we recommend you back up data to prevent data loss, and remove sensitive or confidential data, as a party assessing and/or repairing your goods may be required to view data in the course of carrying out the assessment. We will not be responsible for any data loss.
In some circumstances, goods presented for repair may be replaced by refurbished goods of the same type rather than being repaired. Refurbished parts may be used to repair the goods.
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Where you have any questions or concerns relating to your Order, please immediately contact us
We understand that sometimes you may simply change your mind about a purchase or have made a wrong selection. In these situations, you have 14 days in which to return your item for a refund, exchange or store credit. If more than 14 days has passed since your purchase we can’t offer you a refund, exchange or store credit.
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Please note that current Australian Consumer Law does not require us to offer a ‘Change of Mind’ refund. Rather Len Wallis Audio offers 14 day ‘Change of Mind Policy’ in good faith. For more information on consumer rights and guarantees, please visit the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission web site.
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