Audio Research S-100 Amplifier & LS-3 Preamp Review: Top Amplifiers Under $10K

Explore the exceptional sound quality and value of Audio Research's S-100 amplifier and LS-3 preamp in the under $10,000 category.

A New Era for Audio Research: Solid-State Excellence

When a legendary brand like Audio Research pivots its strategy, gearheads sit up and listen. Known for nearly six decades of tube amplification mastery, the Minnesota-based company has embraced a fresh path: crafting solid-state amplifiers and preamps that bring their signature sound to a wider audience—without the often sky-high price tags of tube gear.

The new Audio Research S-100 amplifier solid-state power amplifier and LS-3 solid-state preamplifier represent a deliberate step toward more accessible price points without sacrificing the sonic integrity that fans expect. For context, the S-100 sells for $9,450 and the LS-3 preamp for $7,450; add the optional DAC card for $1,000 for a versatile all-in-one experience.

From Tube Roots to Transistor Triumphs

Bill Johnson, Audio Research’s founder, is often credited with pioneering the tube amp revival in high-end audio. But he was an engineer first, not a purist. So, it’s fitting that Audio Research’s new solid-state products embrace what technology offers today.

Why the move now? It boils down to cost and efficiency. Tube circuits, while sonically beloved, come with high price tags and heat management challenges. In contrast, Class D and Class AB transistor designs offer powerful, cost-effective alternatives. The S-100 employs a Class AB design, balancing performance with reliability.

Audio Research’s new amplifiers—S-100 and S-200—are compact champs, measuring 19” wide by 6.75” high and 17” deep. The LS-3 preamp shares the same dimensions, creating a visually cohesive setup.

“The S-100 and LS-3 don’t rely on flashy buzzwords like ‘black hole modulators.’ Instead, their design is rooted in proven circuit experience, careful parts matching, and extensive listening tests.” — Lead Designer Mike Bettinger

Inside the S-100 Amplifier: A Masterclass in Bass and Balance

Let’s talk sound — the heartbeat of any amplifier review. The S-100 impressed with its bass performance right out of the gate. This wasn’t about sheer volume or overpowering thump; it was the quality of the bass that stood out. Detailed, textured, rich, and airy—these qualities often don’t coexist, but here they do beautifully.

If you’ve ever noticed how some Class D amps deliver great detail but can feel a bit thin or light on low end, or how some Class A/B amps have power but lack finesse, the S-100 feels like the sweet spot. For instance, the NAD C298 amplifier balances detail and weight nicely, but the S-100 pushes clarity and realism just a notch higher. Even the MBL N51 integrated amplifier, a high-end integrated amp, doesn’t quite match the S-100’s bass detailing and airiness.

Midrange performance carries this balance onward, with fluidity and openness that reveal the organic texture of instruments without sounding cold or edgy. The S-100’s midrange is neither dull nor overly bright but sits comfortably neutral with excellent detail. Compared to amps like the Bryston 3B Cubed amplifier, which smooths over some edges, the S-100 prefers clarity and transparency.

The treble is similarly balanced—clean, smooth, and transparent without artificial roll-offs or harshness. If you’re someone who likes an amplifier to “tone down” bright speakers or recordings, the S-100 isn’t your amp. It’s more of a truth-teller, letting the recordings and speakers speak for themselves.

Power-wise, the 100 watts per channel rating feels more like it packs a punch beyond that number. Driving demanding 4-ohm Magico A5 speakers in a large room, the S-100 seemed unfazed, delivering dynamic energy without strain. For those needing extra juice, the sibling S-200 offers 200 watts per channel.

The takeaway? The S-100 is an exceptionally refined amplifier for its price—an accessible gateway into truly high-end sound.

The LS-3 Preamp: A Neutral, Feature-Rich Front End

On to the LS-3 preamplifier, the logical partner for the S-100. While some audiophiles argue that a DAC straight into an amplifier is the purest path, a preamp remains invaluable if you juggle multiple sources or need precise volume control.

The LS-3 excels at delivering this in a neutral, balanced fashion, with excellent dynamics and frequency response. It doesn’t add any color or warmth but presents music as transparently as possible. Compared to ultra-high-end preamps costing several times more, there’s a tiny veil of softness here. But it’s subtle and unlikely to bother most listeners.

Adding the optional $1,000 DAC card elevates the LS-3’s appeal. The in-house DAC card stacks up well against standalone models under $5,000, and benefits from having a solid volume control and multiple inputs built right in. It’s almost like getting a DAC and preamp combo wrapped into one elegant package.

The phono card (priced at $1,000 individually or $500 extra with the DAC card) rounds out the LS-3’s versatility, appealing to vinyl enthusiasts. Though not tested here, the pedigree of Audio Research’s designers suggests the phono stage will be top-notch.

Usability and Build Quality

Of course, no review is complete without a nod to practicalities. The LS-3’s input/output selection is generous, offering four single-ended and two balanced inputs, plus outputs to match. However, if you’re a subwoofer fanatic using multiple subs for room correction, the single output pairs might pose a limitation.

One notable omission is the lack of HDMI eARC input, which means the LS-3 isn't designed for seamless video sound integration—something to consider if you want a stereo setup that doubles as a home theater hub.

The remote is thoughtfully designed, with straightforward volume control buttons and a bright, adjustable front panel display that’s easy to read across the room. The familiar relay click sounds during volume adjustments can be muted easily if they’re a distraction.

Finishing touches include beautifully executed metalwork with tight panel gaps and a tasteful, traditional Audio Research aesthetic enhanced by a larger touchscreen display on the preamp.

Final Thoughts: A Winning Combination

When pairing the S-100 amplifier with the LS-3 preamp, you’re looking at a duo that elevates your audio system without breaking the bank. These components won’t mask weaknesses elsewhere—bad room acoustics or poorly recorded sources will still show their flaws. But in a well-setup system, they can transform good sound into great sound.

I could confidently recommend these for systems with speakers costing up to $50,000 per pair, a testament to their exceptional performance and build quality.

Audio Research’s bold move into more affordable, solid-state designs is proving to be a masterstroke. This new chapter makes a strong case for the brand’s continuing leadership in high-end audio.

FAQs

• What makes the S-100’s bass performance stand out?
  It combines rich texture, detail, and air in a way that many amps can’t, delivering both impact and clarity without sacrificing one for the other.
• Is the LS-3 preamp suitable for vinyl enthusiasts?
  Yes, especially when equipped with the optional phono card, which is expected to provide excellent MC/MM amplification.
• Can the LS-3 handle home theater audio?
  Not ideally, as it lacks HDMI eARC input, which is crucial for integrating video sound sources seamlessly.
• Does the S-100 amplifier sound harsh or bright?
  No, the S-100 offers a clean, smooth treble response without artificial tonal shaping or harshness.
• Are these products good value for their price?
  Absolutely. While premium priced, their combination of sound quality, build, and features competes with much more expensive gear.

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