LS26

About the LS26

The Audio Research LS26 is a vacuum tube line stage preamplifier that occupies the penultimate position in Audio Research's lineup, just below the Reference 3 model. It features two long-life 6H30 dual triode tubes providing 12dB gain, with a fully regulated massive power supply and hybrid JFET/tube audio circuit. The frequency response is exceptionally wide, from 0.2Hz to 160kHz, with total harmonic distortion of 0.01% and a signal-to-noise ratio of 100dB, making it suitable for noise-sensitive applications. The LS26 includes a large green vacuum-fluorescent front panel display showing volume (0-103 in non-linear increments), balance, input selection, gain, input type (balanced/unbalanced), phase inversion, mono mode, and tube usage hours. It supports an external A-V processor input with unity gain and automatic muting for power interruptions. The preamplifier measures 19" W x 5.25" H x 12" D, weighs 16.5 lbs net, and consumes up to 50 watts. It is praised for its natural, expressive sound with an expansive soundstage, directness, and immediacy, closely resembling the Reference 3 but on a smaller scale. The LS26 comes with a remote control and classic Audio Research styling with a functional plastic chassis.