Audio Research Audio Research Reference 40th Anniversary Preamplifier – Mint & Boxed

Offered for sale is my exceptional Audio Research Reference Anniversary Edition Reference Preamplifier, finished in the classic silver aluminium finish.
I purchased this unit new and am therefore its first and only owner. It has been carefully maintained and remains in genuinely mint cosmetic condition, complete with its original factory boxes, packaging, manuals, remote control, power cord, connecting cables and all accompanying accessories.
The displayed operating-time counter shows only 1,254 hours, exceptionally modest use for an Anniversary Edition of this age.
This was Audio Research’s flagship preamplifier, introduced to celebrate the company’s 40th anniversary. It was produced for only one year and represented a major development beyond the Reference 5, using completely separate audio and power-supply chassis, true dual-mono signal paths and exceptionally substantial regulated valve power supplies.
Two-chassis reference construction
Unlike conventional single-box preamplifiers, the Anniversary Edition consists of:
Reference audio-control chassis
Dedicated dual-mono valve power-supply chassis
Separating the sensitive audio circuitry from the power transformers and regulation stages helps reduce noise and interference while providing substantial power reserves and dynamic capability.
The power supply uses separate regulation for the left and right channels, while the audio chassis employs an all-valve, pure Class A signal circuit with both balanced and single-ended connectivity.
Sound and performance
The Reference Anniversary Edition is renowned for combining the dimensionality, tonal richness and natural presentation associated with the finest valve equipment with exceptional transparency, speed, low noise and dynamic authority.
It produces an expansive and precisely organised soundstage, excellent image depth and a highly natural presentation of voices and acoustic instruments. It is equally suited to valve and high-quality solid-state power amplifiers, subject to normal impedance matching requirements.
The model was regarded at launch as one of Audio Research’s most ambitious preamplifiers and remains one of the most desirable and collectible modern Audio Research designs.
Condition
First and only owner
Mint cosmetic condition
Silver finish
Only 1,254 recorded operating hours
Carefully installed and maintained
Complete original two-chassis system
No missing controls, handles or trim
Display, controls and front panels present beautifully
Original packaging retained for both chassis
The photographs form part of the description. Additional close-up photographs, rear-panel photographs, serial-number details and a photograph of the operating-hours display can be supplied to serious buyers.
Valve hours
Audio Research states that the ten 6H30 valves should normally provide approximately 4,000 hours of use, while the two matched 6550C power-supply regulator valves should be changed at approximately 2,000 hours. With 1,254 hours displayed, the unit remains within Audio Research’s stated service intervals, although future valve replacement should naturally be anticipated as part of normal ownership of reference-level valve equipment.

Because this is an extremely valuable, heavy two-chassis valve component, personal collection and inspection in London are strongly preferred. A demonstration can be arranged for a committed buyer.
Insured delivery may be considered by prior agreement. Both chassis will be packed separately in their original Audio Research factory cartons. Any shipping cost and insurance must be agreed before purchase.
International buyers should contact me before buying to discuss voltage suitability, insurance, import charges and delivery arrangements.