THE NEW AUDIO RESEARCH REFERENCE 330M MONOBLOCK AMPLIFIERS HAVE LANDED

The Audio Research Reference 330M is the new flagship monoblock power amplifier from the American HiFi brand, and is now available in the UK.

Having showcased prototypes at audio shows around the world, Audio Research has finally completed its painstaking development of the Reference 330M and the amp is now shipping from the company’s HQ in Minnesota, USA.

AUDIO RESEARCH REFERENCE 330M MONOBLOCK AMPLIFIERS

Audio Research has introduced the Reference 330M, a high-performance power amplifier that builds on 55 years of expertise in valve amplifier design. This fully balanced, pentode-mode monoblock delivers 330 watts of power—more than double that of the previous flagship, the Reference 160M MkII.

The output stage incorporates six KT170 valves, a high-power, low-distortion audio valve, driven by JFET transistors. The amplifier features a hybrid design that combines valve and solid-state elements in the input and power supply circuitry while maintaining an all-valve signal path.

AUDIO RESEARCH GHOSTMETERS

Engineered for reliability and ease of use, the Reference 330M includes proprietary auto-bias and valve monitoring systems to help extend valve lifespan. The amplifier also features Audio Research’s GhostMeter® VU display, which appears to float in front of the KT170 valves within a dual-layer glass window. Designed for high headroom, precise control, and detailed sound reproduction, the Reference 330M aims to deliver an engaging listening experience with strong dynamics and refined tonality.

AUDIO RESEARCH REFERENCE 330M MONOBLOCK AMPLIFIERS SPECIFICATIONS

Power output: 330W

Output taps: 4 ohms, 8 ohms

Valves – output stage: 6x KT170

Valves – input stage: 1x ECC83, 1x 6H30

Valves – power supply: 1x 6550, 1x 6H30

Inputs: balanced XLR and single-ended RCA

Control ports: 12V triggers, RS-232 remote control

Weight: 45.8kg

AUDIO RESEARCH REFERENCE 330M MONOBLOCK AMPLIFIERS PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

Available in a choice of black or natural (silver) finishes, the Reference 330M is officially ‘price on application’ in the UK owing to fluctuations in exchange rates and import costs, but customers can expect to pay around £92,000 inc. VAT for a stereo pair.

HiFi PiG Says: Stunning looking amplifiers, we are big fans of the AR Ghostmeters!