Audio Research LS8 line preamplifier Sound Quality Ratings

I took my screen of my speaker yesterday (Dali Ikon 6) - just packing them for a move and wanted to check them out - and noticed a small hole in the rubber around the outside of one of the speakers. The speaker itself is fine, just the rubber part that makes it vibrate. I have not noticed a problem with the audio from that speaker - I found it by chance.
Is this an issue? I would imagine any air that escapes that hole is not transferring to the speaker vibration. It looks like the part is replaceable...
Any thoughts?
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I have been using a Levinson #360 DAC for many years , and am very happy with it . Has anyone compared it to the newer DACs of similar price . I'm wondering if it's worth upgrading or would the money be better spent else wear . USB input is not important .
If you want system particulars , there is a discription and pictures on the Audiogon site. under system links , heading ( opinions please ) , same user name , system name is ( built in budget beater ) .
Thanks in advance and Happy New Year Tim
Is VSi60's output power, 50wpc, big enough for Sophia 3?
TIA,
Trent