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Audio Research Reference 160M MkII
The Reference 160M MkII Monoblock Power Amplifier is a central pillar in the Audio Research range of Reference Amplifiers.
It features a refined audio topology with fewer and better components in the signal-path than in previous designs, switchable Ultralinear/Triode operation, proprietary auto-bias, output tube monitoring and protection, and much more.
This array of features has never been offered before in an Audio Research amplifier, but has now been adopted across the product range.
Key design elements
While the trademark GhostMeter™ serves as a window to the output tubes, it also incorporates an innovative power output meter with distinctively etched markings that create an integrated display with adjustable brightness.
Four KT150 output tubes and two 6H30 driver tubes form the core of the audio circuit.
The power supply stage uses a newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and a hefty bulk storage-capacity network to provide extremely high current on demand for transient peaks and intense dynamics, as well as for prodigious bass depth and authority.
Shortest signal path
It is understood that the best path is the shortest path. A 4-layer circuit board serves as the platform of the ultra-high grade and custom-made components that comprise this short but potent audio pathway. The result is a new benchmark in musicality in every criterion of performance.
REF160M MkII also features a proprietary auto-bias circuit that works with various tubes types, including 6550, KT88, and KT120, in addition to the supplied KT150 and works constantly to maintain precise bias of the output tubes, while also adjusting for tube wear. There is no need to check or adjust bias ever again.
The new REF 160M MkII breaks new ground sonically, aesthetically and operationally, and is available in Natural (Silver) or Black finishes.
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Audio Research Reference 160M MkII
The Reference 160M MkII pairs classic tube character with modern engineering to deliver a remarkably transparent, dynamic monoblock that reviewers call both riveting and musical. Across long-term tests Enjoy The Music, HiFi News and SoundStage Solo praised its 140W ultralinear output, vivid midrange, and far-reaching highs while the KT150-powered design and new auto-bias/tube-monitoring system keep operation predictable. Sonically it emphasizes clarity and microdetail, with deep, layered soundstage and stable imaging even at dramatic dynamic swings. Build and ergonomics are premium: etched dual-layer meters, solid transformers and flexible 4/8/16Ω taps. Ideal for serious audiophiles with moderately efficient speakers who want a reference-quality tube signature and the convenience of modern protection and system integration. Overall, reviewers agree its performance justifies auditioning it for high-end systems.
Pros
- Exceptional transparency and natural instrument timbre with high microdetail and musical immediacy.
- Powerful, uncompressed dynamics and authoritative transient slam from its 140W ultralinear output.
- Generous, deeply layered soundstaging and stable imaging that hold together during dynamic peaks.
- Well executed design and user features — auto-biasing, tube monitoring/protection, triode/ultralinear switching and striking etched meters.
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Cons
- Triode mode reduces output (~half power) and can sound warmer/more restricted—may limit headroom with low-efficiency speakers.
- Some listeners noted slightly rounder or less textured bass compared with the very best solid‑state references.
- Minor ergonomic niggles reported (mode LED colours are similar; an unusual 20A IEC cord choice can confuse setup).
Sound Quality
95/100
Dynamics
96/100
Reviewers repeatedly praise the REF160M's headroom, slam and uncompressed transients: TAS notes natural, non-jumpy dynamics; EnjoyTheMusic reports "no hint of compression" from pianissimo to fortissimo; HiFi News says the amps 'balanced sheer power with delicate nuance' and even 'have assault capabilities to threaten other amps with far more wattage.' Despite the spec sheet's modest damping-factor figure (~14), multiple reviews describe authoritative bass control and effortless delivery of transient peaks. Monoblock topology and heavy power supply design (KT150s + high-energy transformer described by Audio Research) further support exceptional dynamics.
Soundstage Imaging
93/100
Multiple reviewers report expansive, stable, deeply layered soundstages and strong imaging: SoundStage Solo measured stages up to ~25% larger than references; Positive Feedback and EnjoyTheMusic describe vividly three-dimensional presence and precise imaging even during dynamic swings. Reviewers also note that imaging remains stable under dynamic load, preserving separation and depth.
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Build Quality
92/100
Monoblock construction, substantial transformer/bulk storage network and thoughtful features (auto-bias, output-tube monitoring/protection, dimmable transparent meters) are repeatedly praised (Best of High End, SoundStage, StereoNET). The amps weigh ~56 lb each, use KT150s and employ solid-state regulation for stability and reliability; reviewers call the build 'exceptional' and 'drop-dead gorgeous' with only minor ergonomic niggles noted.
Value for Money
90/100
Reviewers position the REF160M as appropriately priced for its class: several call it 'reference-quality' and say it 'holds its own against similarly priced amplifiers' (SoundStage Solo, HiFi News), and several note dealer support/customer service as a value factor (Audiophilepure). While expensive (~$30k pair, some sources give $38k/pair depending on context), sentiment is that performance justifies the price within the high-end reference segment.
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