The new Audio Research D-80 is a stereo tube power amplifier based on the famous Audio Research Reference 80S.
It replaces the VT80SE and sets a new benchmark for performance in this price range.
Audio Research D-80: Chassis
The D-80 is an imposing amplifier in more ways than one. Its chassis is far from a standard size, and it is essential to plan for adequate space and, ideally, excellent ventilation.
The 10 mm-thick aluminum front panel features uncommon dimensions (25 × 45 cm) and incorporates the traditional and beautiful handles found on the Reference series.
At the center of the front panel is a single power switch.
The amplifier is supplied as standard with a fully perforated protective tube cage. This is optional and can be removed if you prefer to see the tubes directly behind the front panel. At the rear of the chassis, a matte-black cover conceals the power transformer and the two output transformers.
On the back of the unit, you’ll find balanced analog XLR inputs. The speaker outputs offer multiple impedance options: 4, 8, and 16 ohms. There is also an operating-hours counter, which admittedly is not very convenient to read.
The power cord is detachable; however, it uses an IEC-19 connector, meaning a specific C19 power cable is required.
Audio Research D-80: Technology
The D-80 is an 80-watt-per-channel tube power amplifier. To achieve this output, Audio Research employs a push-pull configuration of KT150 tubes per channel, each driven by a 6H30 tube.
The circuit is fully balanced from input to output. Accordingly, the amplifier is entirely and exclusively balanced, offering no RCA inputs—only XLR connections. The speaker terminals are available in three impedance options (4, 8, and 16 ohms), ensuring excellent versatility and compatibility with a wide range of loudspeaker designs.
The circuit features an automatic tube bias adjustment system. This “Auto Bias” allows for easy tube replacement while ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the KT150 tubes, delivering consistent sound quality without the need for manual adjustment or technician intervention.
The D-80 is also equipped with a trigger input, simplifying integration with other components in your audio system. When connected to an Audio Research preamplifier—or any other brand with a 12V trigger output—the D-80 powers on automatically when the preamplifier is switched on.
Audio Research D-80: Sound Performance
From the very first notes, the D-80’s sonic character is reminiscent of the legendary Audio Research Reference 75 SE. It delivers a remarkable sense of naturalness and exceptional tonal quality. Instruments have a rare sense of body and substance, yet without any excessive warmth or dark tonal balance.
On the contrary, the sound is exceptionally clear, free from distortion or aggression. The D-80 faithfully conveys the subtle nuances of musicians’ performances—you can hear the fingers striking piano keys or plucking guitar strings. At the same time, it delivers a powerful, expansive sound with rich, deep, and highly impactful bass.
The soundstage is impressively wide and surprisingly precise. The presentation is rich, immersive, and deeply emotional.
The Audio Research D-80 is an outstanding amplifier, capable of driving even notoriously demanding loudspeakers.
One simply needs to ensure it is paired with a preamplifier capable of matching its exceptional performance.
FranckOutput power: 80 watts per channel, continuous frequency from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Polarisation: automatic power tubes
Balanced inputs: XLR
Unbalanced inputs: RCA
Speaker output terminals: 4-8 ohms
Trigger: 12 V
Total harmonic distortion at 1 kHz: < 1% at 75 watts, < 0.05% at 1 watt.
Bandwidth: (-3 dB) 7 Hz to 60 kHz
Frequency response: (-3 dB at 1 watt) 0.7 Hz to 80 kHz
Input sensitivity: 1.4 V RMS
Input impedance: 300 kohms balanced (150 kohms unbalanced)
Output terminals: 8 ohms, 4 ohms
Output regulation: Approximately 1.0 dB at 8 ohms
Overall negative feedback: 15 dB
Rise time: 4.0 microseconds
Channel separation: 112 dB
Noise: –84 dBV weighted, 8 ohm output
Signal-to-noise ratio: 112 dB
Power supply: Approximately 350 joules
Power tubes: 2 matched pairs of KT150
Driver tubes: 2 x 6H30
Dimensions: 48.3 cm x 26.2 cm x 54 cm (including handles and terminals)
Weight: 20.7 kg
Customer reviews
Audio research D80
Equipé depuis 20 ans avec un ampli audio research VS 55 ,j'avais décidé l'année dernière de faire évoluer mon système , sur les conseils de Franck Je viens de recevoir le dernier ampli audio research le D80 qui complète un préampli également audio research LS 28 , le matériel n'est pas encore bien rôdé, malgré cela c'est une grande claque, les graves des BW 803 diamant s'exprime comme jamais, la scène sonore est également transformé, chaque chose à sa place, la voix les instruments, un grand merci à Franck pour les conseils et sa connaissance sur son produit.