Reference 6

About the Reference 6

The Audio Research Reference 6 is a flagship vacuum tube line preamplifier designed to deliver exceptional sonic transparency, dynamic range, and musicality. It features a fully balanced, class-A circuit topology with no feedback, utilizing six 6H30P dual triode tubes in the audio section and a robust power supply with a 6550WE and an additional 6H30P. The Reference 6 offers four balanced and four unbalanced inputs, assignable via a front-panel menu, and three sets of outputs (two main, one record), both balanced and unbalanced. Its chassis is constructed from thick, machined aluminum for rigidity and resonance control, and it includes a microprocessor-controlled, 103-step resistor-ladder volume control for precise adjustments. The Reference 6 is lauded for its improved bass control, dimensionality, and overall refinement compared to its predecessor, the Reference 5SE. It comes with a comprehensive remote control and features such as automatic volume reset, tube-hour counter, display brightness adjustment, auto shutdown, and home theater integration. The Reference 6 has been discontinued and replaced by the Reference 6SE, but remains highly regarded in the audiophile community.