Audio Research LS3 Preamplifier

The Audio Research LS-3 is a solid-state preamplifier that marks a significant departure for a brand synonymous with tubes, and it does so with conviction. Built around a fully balanced differential JFET input stage, a bipolar transistor voltage amplifier, and Class-A output stages, the LS-3 delivers the speed, transparency, and dynamic control of solid-state with the tonal richness Audio Research is known for. Inspired by the original LS3 that earned worldwide acclaim in 1992, this modern interpretation shares a chassis with the LS-2 and adds a touchscreen display, optional DAC and phono cards, and dual-mono construction with separate power transformers.

Solid-State, Audio Research Style

The LS-3 represents the work of Audio Research’s solid-state engineering team, and the result doesn’t sound like a compromise or a departure. The JFET input stage brings the kind of natural, musical character that makes this preamp feel at home in the lineup, while the bipolar voltage amplifier stage provides the gain and linearity needed for reference-grade performance. The Class-A output stages ensure low distortion and maximum transparency, regardless of the load presented by the power amplifier.

True Dual-Mono Construction

The LS-3’s signal path is fully dual-mono from input to output, with separate power transformers for each channel. The power supply uses a zero gain-cascaded voltage reference with linear regulation, providing exceptionally low noise and the kind of instantaneous current delivery that translates to dynamic headroom. This isn’t a single-transformer design with split windings; it’s genuine dual-mono construction that keeps channel separation absolute and the noise floor well below audibility.

Touchscreen Control and Modern Interface

Audio Research’s new touchscreen display brings modern convenience without cluttering the minimalist faceplate. Input naming lets you label sources for instant identification, while display intensity and color options let you match the LS-3 to your room’s lighting. The display font carries forward the style of the Reference GhostMeters, maintaining visual continuity across Audio Research’s product line. All settings are accessible from the front panel or the included remote control.

Optional DAC and Phono Cards

The LS-3 can be configured with an optional DAC card featuring an AKM Velvet Sound chip, providing USB, Optical, Coax, and Bluetooth inputs with upsampling across all digital sources. The optional phono card handles both MM and MC cartridges with adjustable MC loading from 50 to 1,000 ohms, all controllable via the remote. These cards can be added at time of purchase or installed later, making the LS-3 a flexible platform that grows with your system. Order the LS-3 Only for the pure analog preamp, or add the DAC, Phono, or both cards using the Version selector.

Chassis Design and Build Quality

The LS-3 shares its all-aluminum chassis with the LS-2, a design carefully engineered for the stability and rigidity needed to isolate sensitive analog circuits from vibration and electromagnetic interference. The chassis is elegant and modern while maintaining the silhouette that has defined Audio Research products for decades. Available in Black or Silver anodized finish, the LS-3 pairs naturally with Audio Research power amplifiers and source components.

Audio Research LS-3 Preamplifier Video

Explore the Audio Research Preamplifier Range

The LS-2 shares the same chassis and offers an alternative approach in the same price tier. For the Reference line, the LS28SE delivers tube-based line-stage performance, while the Reference 6SE and Reference 10 represent Audio Research’s statement-level preamplification. For dedicated phono amplification, the PH9 provides a standalone tube phono stage.