2. amps-preamps
  3. 1279464565

Advice on possible preamp upgrade

I currently use a CJ PV-14L as my 2 channel preamp and am looking for advice and opinions as to whether it is a worth while change to go to another preamp with a budget limit of 2K. I am looking at either an Audio Research SP-16 or 17, or a Cary SLP-03. My system is a combo 2 channel, H/T system so I need a preamp with a H/T bypass. I use a Jolida JD-1000P as my amp and Geddes Abbey 12A speakers. I do not need the preamp to have a phono so a linestage is fine, but if someone has a suggestion in my price range that includes a phono section that is fine. I am not unhappy with the CJ preamp I am just wondering if I can do any better with something in the 2K and under range, if not I will stay with the CJ. I prefer tube preamps but if someone has a suggestion for a SS unit I will consider that also.
dwr

Showing 1 response by willieaspen

willieaspen
20 posts
 
Take a look at the Cary SLP-2002. I have it and the PV-14 right now. I enjoy the sound of both preamps and they offer around 20db of gain (the PV-14 has 22db).

The CJ has the better volume control and remote. It also only uses 2 tubes. The Cary adds balanced operation, a balanced (and unbalanced) HT bypass that works even when the preamp is off, and a nice headphone amp.

The Cary uses 6922 input tubes and 5814 (12AU7s) as cathode followers. It can be modified by the factory for lower gain with 6CG7s instead of the 6922s. I'm looking at that since I can barely turn up the volume.

Also, the C-J inverts phase through the linestage, but does not do so for the cinema bypass. The Cary does not invert phase either way, if that matters to you.

Anyways, sound and $$$-wise, a lateral move. It's just a matter of what is important to you.

Jeff
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