Audio Research Reference 20 + 330M Monoblocks: Tube Power Reimagined

Glenn from Sound Sanctuary Austin sits down with Allan Haggar, VP of Global Sales for Audio Research, for a deep conversation about the new Audio Research Reference 20 Preamplifier, the Reference 330M Monoblock amplifiers, and what makes this new generation of reference-level tube gear so compelling. In this conversation, Glenn and Allan discuss why Audio Research replaced both of its reference preamps at the same time, how chassis design affects sound quality, why the Reference 20 moved to a single-chassis design, what makes the 330M monoblocks different from previous Audio Research amplifiers, and how great audio systems bring listeners closer to the emotion and artistry of music. Whether you are an Audio Research owner, a tube amplification enthusiast, or simply curious about what reference-level hi-fi can sound like, this conversation gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of high-end audio’s most respected brands. Visit Sound Sanctuary Austin to experience world-class two-channel audio systems in person. Sound Sanctuary Austin Hill Country Galleria 12820 Hill Country Blvd, Suite E-115 Bee Cave, TX 78738 Subscribe for more high-end audio interviews, system demos, listening events, and product conversations from Sound Sanctuary Austin. 00:00 Introduction: Glenn welcomes Allan Haggar from Audio Research 00:31 First public listening of the Reference 20 outside AXPONA 01:20 Why Audio Research is excited about the new reference products 02:10 Replacing the Reference 6SE and Reference 10 03:05 Why Audio Research is known as a preamp company 03:47 Why chassis design matters more than people think 05:05 The new Reference 20 design, weight, and touchscreen controls 06:20 Phase inversion and how recordings change in the room 07:45 Inside the Reference 20 and the single-chassis design 08:35 Why Audio Research moved beyond the two-box Reference 10 10:25 How long product development takes at Audio Research 12:35 Why the Reference 20 is the best preamp Audio Research has made 13:15 The Reference 330M Monoblocks and what makes them special 14:05 Tube amps, authority, dynamics, and bass control 15:15 Why the 330M delivers more than “tube warmth” 16:20 Why the 330M is not just a larger Reference 160M 17:20 A ground-up redesign of Audio Research amplification 18:10 Heat, tube cages, and the visual beauty of tube amps 19:15 Pairing the Reference 20, Reference 7, and 330M monoblocks 20:10 Audio Research’s rapid product development and engineering growth 21:20 Allan’s path from engineering and finance into high-end audio 22:15 Music, performance, and why real sound matters 23:30 How listening to music becomes a daily reset 25:15 Final thoughts: Audio Research magic at Sound Sanctuary Austin