Source: Press Release, Last Accessed: 2021/01/26

The Reference 80S stereo amplifier continues Audio Research’s latest design effort in creating a vacuum-tube amplifier that not only redefines ultimate music reproduction, but does it in an incredibly beautiful package.
The 80S was created for the music lover who does not require the output power of its larger siblings, the Reference 160S stereo and 160M mono amplifiers. The 80S continues the design ethos, including dual GhostMeters that float in front of four KT150 output tubes. Extruded panels, a vital part of the all-aluminum chassis, provide rigidity and beauty.
Outwardly, the 80S shares the same dimensions as the 160M. A single shallow whisper fan is built into the bottom plate. Flexibility is built-in, too, with XLR and SE inputs, 4-8-16 ohm output taps, 12V input and output triggers, RS232 input, tube hour meter, switchable fan speeds, and defeatable auto-off function.
The feature set is the same as the 160S, including a proprietary auto-bias circuit that adjusts for not only tube age, but for power line voltage swings. There is fusing of the output tubes, switchable Triode-Pentode operation to accommodate loudspeakers and personal preference, output tube monitoring, and the inclusion of an hour meter so you know how many hours are on the tubes.
Like every Reference amplifier before it, the 80S is a fully-balanced differential design featuring a four-layer circuit board to provide a separate ground plane, better circuit layout, and fewer noise-inducing point-to-point connections.

For more information: https://audioresearch.com/

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