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Audio Research is introducing the Foundation Series of tube-based components at the Munich High End Show.

From the same engineering and design team that created the brand’s Reference Series, the Foundation Series kicks off with the LS28 line stage preamplifier ($7,500, due in June), the PH9 phono stage ($7,500, due in July), and the DAC9 digital-to-analog converter ($7,500, due in August). Each model will be finished in black and anodized aluminum and comes with a custom metal remote control.

A new amplifier and other products are planned for the future, according to the company.

“Many of the parts in an Audio Research product are proprietary, while some are designed for a singular model,” the company said. “This 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.”

From the press release:

The LS28 line stage is a flexible and intuitive preamplifier. Four balanced and four single-ended inputs, and two sets of both balanced and single-ended outputs, allow maximum connectivity. The straightforward 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 PH9 phono preamplifier is a great pairing with most cartridge and turntable combinations. A trio of 6H30 vacuum tubes are 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 DAC9 digital-to-analog converter decodes 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.

For more information, visit audioresearch.com.