Hybrid preamplifier! The Audio Research SP-14 aims to offer the best of both worlds. And it does a pretty good job of it. The warmth of tubes and the precision of FETs. Come listen to it in one of our listening rooms.
Recapped, equipped with Mundorf capacitors.
The Audio Research SP-14 is a hybrid preamplifier that combines the warmth of tubes with the precision of FET technology. This preamplifier delivers a detailed and dynamic sound, resulting in a clear and spacious soundstage. With a frequency response of 5 Hz to 50 kHz and a total harmonic distortion of less than 0.01%, the SP-14 delivers an accurate and natural sound.
The SP-14 features six line inputs and a phono input, offering flexibility for various audio sources. The phono section uses a single 6DJ8/ECC88 tube, which contributes to the warm and musical sound characteristic of Audio Research.
Would you like to experience the Audio Research SP-14 for yourself? Schedule a listening session to discover the exceptional performance of this preamplifier.
Frequency response: ±0.5 dB, 5 Hz to 50 kHz
Total harmonic distortion: less than 0.01% at 2 V RMS output
Gain: Phono input to tape output: 46 dB; High-level inputs to tape output: 0 dB; Phono input to main output: 66 dB; High-level inputs to main output: 20 dB
Inputs (7): Phono, CD, Tuner, Video, Spare, Tape 1, Tape 2
Outputs (4): 2x Main, 2x Recorder
Controls (6): Gain, Attenuation, Balance, Mode, Record Out, Input
Switches (8): Power, Outlets, Bypass, Mute, Copy, Tape 1 to 2/2 to 1, Tape 2/1, Monitor
Input impedance: 50K ohms for line inputs; 47K ohms for phono (provisions for any value below 47K ohms or additional input capacitance for matching specific magnetic cartridges)
Output impedance: 250 ohms for the main output, 1000 ohms for the recorder output. Recommended load: 60K–100K ohms and 100 pF. (20K ohms minimum and 1000 pF maximum)
Maximum inputs: Magnetic phono, 200 mV at 1 kHz (1,000 mV RMS, 10 kHz). High-level inputs are essentially overload-proof.
Nominal outputs: 2 V RMS, 5 Hz to 50 kHz, all outputs; 60K ohm load (main output capacity is 50V RMS at 0.5% THD at 1kHz into a 100K ohm load with a 5V RMS high-level input)
Power Supplies: Electronically regulated low- and high-voltage power supplies and electronic isolation. Shielded toroidal transformer. Line regulation better than 0.01%
Noise: High Level: 70 uV RMS maximum residual unfiltered broadband noise at the main output with gain control set to minimum (98 dB below 5 V RMS output); More than 100 dB below 1 V RMS input (less than 7 uV equivalent input noise). Phono input noise, IHF-weighted, short-circuited input (78 dB below 1 mV input)
Tube configuration: 1 x 6DJ8/ECC88 dual triode (hybrid FET/tube audio circuit, solid-state power supply)
Power requirements: 100–135 VAC, 60 Hz (200–270 VAC, 50/60 Hz), 60 watts
Dimensions: 48 cm W x 13.4 cm H (standard rack panel) x 26 cm D. Handles protrude 4.1 cm forward from the front panel. Rear chassis fittings protrude 2.3 cm.
Weight: 5.5 kg net; 9.6 kg shipping weight
The Audio Research SP-14 is designed with a focus on sound purity and precision, characteristics for which the brand is known. Designed by Audio Research’s dedicated team of engineers, the SP-14 utilizes hybrid technology: a combination of tube and solid-state components for optimal performance. The high-quality materials, such as premium capacitors and resistors, are sourced from renowned suppliers. The internal wiring is carefully hand-wired to minimize signal degradation. The sturdy chassis is designed for both aesthetics and functionality, with vibration-damping properties to optimize sound quality.
Audio Research was founded in 1970 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, by William Zane Johnson. The company began developing electronic tube equipment, starting with the SP-1 preamplifier. Over the years, the brand introduced several products, including the D-150 power amplifier in 1974 and the original REF1 in 1995. Audio Research moved its headquarters to Maple Grove, Minnesota, in 2007. In 2020, the company was acquired by AR Tube Audio Corporation, led by former employees. Audio Research manufactures all of its products in the United States and focuses on manual assembly of equipment. Repairs and maintenance can be done in-house. The company uses hand-wired point-to-point wiring combined with printed circuit boards. Documentation and schematics of products since 1970 are available through the company, and parts are kept in its own warehouse.
