RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
Audio Research D240 MKII Power Amplifier This amplifier has some important stories to tell. The Amplifier Story #1 “The D240 stereo power amplifier represents a new milestone in amplifier design: it combines the musicality and life-like imaging of vacuum-tube and hybrid amplifiers with the maintenance-free convenience of all-solid-state circuit technology. The D240's one-button operation couldn't be simpler - one push and you're ready to play. There's no question about it- the D240 will change the way you think about solid-state amplifiers. It is musical technology on a personal note, desig
The D240 MKII is a serious old-school power amp, and at A$2,299 it’s priced above the recent local pack, not in bargain territory. Against your database anchor, it sits well above the 75th percentile of A$1,742, so I’d call it ambitious rather than fair unless this one has exceptional provenance or fresh servicing.
That said, Audio Research amps are respected for grip, scale, and a very natural midband, so this is the kind of piece that can still be a worthwhile buy if the cosmetics are clean and the amp has been properly maintained. On a unit this age, the real upside is finding one that’s been looked after, with stable operation and no need for immediate service; if the seller can document that, it becomes more interesting.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Audio Research Corporation, founded in 1970 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by William Z. Johnson, traces its roots to his pioneering work in custom audio electronics during the 1950s and his operation of a specialty retail store through the mid-1960s. After a brief stint selling his designs to a larger firm, Johnson regained independence to establish ARC with a singular mission: advancing the state-of-the-art in music reproduction. From modest beginnings in the back of his shop, the company evolved into one of America's oldest continuously operating high-end audio manufacturers, now housed in a state-of-the-art 48,000-square-foot facility in Maple Grove, Minnesota.
ARC specializes in performance-driven electronics, renowned for vacuum-tube amplifiers, preamplifiers, and electronic crossovers that emphasize sonic purity over flashy features or aesthetics. Drawing on circuit designs rooted in the 1950s, the brand integrates tubes into modern contexts, delivering what it calls "high definition" sound through genuine technological advances. While not venturing into speakers, turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables, ARC's focused lineup prioritizes amplifiers and preamps that set benchmarks for musical realism.
Positioned at the pinnacle of high-end audio, Audio Research is hailed as a true originator of the genre, commanding respect among audiophiles for its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. Enduring the 1970s tube revival against solid-state dominance, ARC thrives via elite specialist retailers worldwide, standing alongside peers like Conrad-Johnson as a vintage-inspired yet forward-thinking force in the niche boutique market.
See all Audio Research listings on RADAR.
