Built upon the core values and technology found within Audio Research's Reference Line, the Foundation family of vacuum tube components has been created to provide incredible musical experiences. In their own words:

Since 1970, High Definition has been more than our trademark; it has been our guiding principle for all products. The Foundation Series continues this passion and philosophy, offering the listener stunning playback, great value, and unparalleled long-term support.

Philip Sawyer, Managing Director for Australia's Audio Research Distributor, Synergy Audio Visual told StereoNET:

The Foundation Series is a new range of components sitting under the Reference Range.  The Audio Research team has looked at all aspects of design to come up with the new models.  With industrial design by Livio Cucuzza, the range harks back to some of the original pieces from Bill Johnson, Audio Research's founder.  For example, even the grille pattern on the casing has been taken from the early models.  The LS28 technology draws on Audio Research's extensive history of preamp design to set a formidable new standard for the price. We can't wait for it to arrive!

The first three releases include the LS28 line stage preamplifier, the PH9 phono stage, and the DAC9 digital-to-analog converter. Audio Research says a new amplifier will follow along with other products to complete the Foundation series.

The levels of workmanship, attention to detail and quality control in Foundation Series do not differ to the Reference Series.

The attention to detail is inherent to all processes at Audio Research - from the hand-soldering of every circuit board, to the final listening test which is conducted by the same person who helped guide the design. Our commitment at Audio Research is to deliver the most musically satisfying experience at every level.

Starting with the LS28 line stage preamplifier. It includes four balanced and four single-ended inputs, and two sets of both balanced and single-ended outputs, allowing maximum connectivity. An intuitive menu allows control of numerous parameters, including input naming, tube hours, auto shutdown, and home theater passthrough. Phase invert and mono are also standard functions.

At the heart of the LS28 are four 6H30 vacuum tubes in the analog circuit. While the LS28 is the perfect match for any Audio Research amplifier, it has been designed to work with nearly any amplifier on the market today.

The LS28 Preamplifier will be available around July 2016 with an expected cost of $12,495 RRP.

The PH9 Phono Preamplifier uses a trio of 6H30 vacuum tubes at the core of a simple and clear signal path to provide the most transparent preamplification possible. Five different impedance settings allow for cartridge loading, which can be changed on the fly with the included metal remote. Cartridge impedance, tube hours, auto shutdown, and other features are included in the menu system.

The PH9 Phono Preamplifier will be available around August 2016 with an expected cost of $12,495 RRP.

Making the digital connection, the DAC9 Digital-to-Analog Convertor will decode most current formats with state-of-the-art vacuum tube technology. Five digital connections - USB, RCA, BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink - provide connectivity to all of your digital sources. Quad DAC architecture provides a balanced digital signal, wide dynamic range, and decoding resolutions from red book CD up to 384 kHz and native DSD sampling rates.

A pair of 6H30 vacuum tubes are the heart of the analog circuit. Both balanced and single-ended connectors are provided for output connectivity. Native-rate upsampling and selectable digital filters allow customization of the digital signal.

The DAC9 DAC will be available around September 2016 with an expected cost of $12,495 RRP.

Full specifications for each product can be found on the Audio Research website.

All models will be available in both black and natural anodized aluminum finishes and each unit comes with its own custom metal remote control.

Audio Research is available from seven specially appointed Australian dealers and distributed locally by Synergy Audio Visual.

See Audio Research at the 2016 International HiFI Show, Melbourne, July 1st-3rd in Room 1206.