ARC SP-10
Not much is documented about the ARC SP-10 outside of period equipment reviews. The record shows a top-of-the-line tube preamplifier from Audio Research, the company's most evolved preamp design of its era.
Audio (June 1984, p.74) profiled the SP-10 alongside the D-70 power amplifier. It called the SP-10 Audio Research's "most-evolved, top-of-the-line preamplifier." The review noted 6DJ8 dual triodes and "Wonder Cap" polypropylene capacitors throughout. The power supply sat in a separate chassis. Its front panel had two toggle switches (for preamp power and outlet power) with green LED indicators. The rear panel had a three-wire AC cord, a connector for sending voltages to the preamp, and line and high-voltage fuses.
Measured performance was strong. Frequency response was rated at 5 Hz to 30 kHz ±0.25 dB, with the -3 dB points below 1 Hz and above 100 kHz. Maximum output was 60 V into high impedance. The unit weighed 31 lbs (13.9 kg) and carried a 1984 list price of $3,450.00.
Other information on this model is thin. No production years, total run numbers or later revisions have been confirmed from the available sources. Almost everything that exists comes from that single Audio equipment profile.
- Type: Tube preamplifier (separate power supply)
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 30 kHz, ±0.25 dB; –3 dB below 1 Hz and above 100 kHz
- Maximum Output: 60 V into high impedance
- Weight: 31 lbs (13.9 kg)
- Price (1984): $3,450.00
- Tubes: 6DJ8 dual triodes
- Capacitors: “Wonder Cap” polypropylene
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