169 Évolution vers Audio Research #1
At Son Ultime, some client systems evolve over time. Nicolas works closely with his clients throughout this process, refining each element of the system based on their listening goals and musical preferences.
This Achievement follows Achievement 157: Installation of Bowers & Wilkins 801 D4, where the integration of the 801 D4 speakers marked the completion of the system on the loudspeaker side, establishing a strong reference point for future evolution.
The client was already highly satisfied with the existing system, which delivered a rich and immersive listening experience. Over time, however, the desire to explore a new level naturally emerged, aiming for greater transparency, refinement, and realism.
After extensive listening sessions and discussions, we guided the system toward a configuration built around the Audio Research REF6SE preamplifier and the Audio Research REF160S amplifier.
True to its philosophy of signal purity, Audio Research stands out through a rigorous engineering approach, featuring simplified circuits, meticulous component selection, and designs built for long-term stability and performance. This translates into a highly natural and fluid presentation, where every nuance is revealed with clarity and precision.
The improvements were immediately noticeable:
- Increased transparency
- A wider and more three-dimensional soundstage
- Enhanced harmonic richness and refinement
- Improved articulation of the musical message
- Tighter and more controlled bass
This evolution reflects an approach focused on achieving a more faithful reproduction of the recording, where balance and system coherence become central to the listening experience.
Here is how the client describes this evolution in his own words (Translated to English):
“I reached out to Son Ultime to upgrade my audio system, and the experience was outstanding from start to finish. The team provided valuable advice, demonstrated great professionalism, excellent technical expertise, and an impeccable attention to detail.
I transitioned from a McIntosh system to Audio Research, and their guidance was key in that decision. This change allowed me to reach a new level in terms of transparency, refinement, musicality, precision, and soundstage.
The system is now faster, more detailed, and delivers a much more realistic presentation, with better-controlled bass and improved instrument separation. Simply impressive!
The result is exceptional, both sonically and aesthetically. Courteous service, clear explanations, and meticulous work. Thank you guys!”
Son Ultime maintains a close relationship with Audio Research, built on a shared vision of high-fidelity and a constant pursuit of excellence.
This relationship positions Son Ultime as a key reference in Quebec for discovering, integrating, and optimizing Audio Research electronics, with a strong focus on personalized guidance and system synergy.
This synergy is reflected directly in the quality of the support provided, both in system integration and optimization, with careful attention to every detail.
At Son Ultime, each system evolution is approached as a natural progression, where the goal is not to transform, but to refine until the system disappears and only the music remains.
The traded-in McIntosh electronics from this system will soon be available in our Pre-Owned section on our website. You are also welcome to contact us directly to reserve them in advance.
Son Ultime:
- Specialist in high-fidelity audio in Quebec
- Extensive inventory available immediately
- On-site maintenance and repair services
- Free delivery across Quebec
- Professional installation across Quebec
19 Pictures












