The Audio Research design team aimed to create a fresh style that complements the REF6 preamp's appearance while also showcasing the glowing KT150 vacuum tubes through the innovative GhostMeter™. This GhostMeter™ not only displays output tubes but also features a dual-layer construction with etched markings to serve as an integrated power meter. The power meter markings light up via hidden LEDs, and the brightness can be adjusted as per the user's preference. The REF 160M MkII comes with a sculpted cover that includes an integrated fan to keep the four (4) KT150 output tubes and two (2) 6H30 driver tubes cool. The engineers opted for solid-state power regulation to provide high efficiency, stability, and reliability. The power supply stage comprises a newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and a bulky storage-capacity network to deliver high current on demand for transient peaks, dynamic sounds, and bass depth.

The Audio Research engineers took the shortest path to the best performance, creating a new audio circuit topology that has the shortest signal path with the least number of components. The components are among the best available, with many specially customised for Audio Research. These quality components are integrated into a four-layer circuit board that reduces noise levels significantly, a design reserved for the preamplifiers. The output is a new standard in musicality in every aspect of sound quality.

The proprietary auto-bias circuit in the REF 160M MkII is another feature worth mentioning. It works with several tube types, including 6550, KT88, and KT120, in addition to the KT150 supplied, and consistently maintains precise bias of the output tubes, while also adjusting for tube wear. The user never again needs to check or adjust the bias.

In terms of operation, aesthetics, and sound quality, the new REF 160M MkII sets a new standard and comes in Natural (Silver) or Black finishes.