2. amps-preamps
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Amp recommendation for CJ ET3 preamp

Hi, I need an amplifier recommendation please. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Current setup--

Preamp: Conrad-Johnson ET3
Speakers: Acoustic Zen Adagios

In a perfect world, I would love to find a ss amp for under $3,000 to match my system. I'm thinking solid state because my concern is that a tube amp paired with the tube ET3 preamp would be too "sweet." (Too much of a good thing). Someone can talk me out of that idea if they think I am wrong.

I understand that I'm going about this process a little backwards and probably should have purchases the preamp last but what can I say? I'm not the most rational person!
vjnavarra

Showing 3 responses by vjnavarra

vjnavarra OP
3 posts
 
Lloydelee21, thanks for for the response!

I'm replacing an old CJ PV-5 so I guess I'm letting that bias my opinion of tube preamps. I had it paired with a ss amp and I loved the sound. When listening to the ET3 before purchasing, I thought it had a similar sound only with better detail (clarity) in the midrange.

I'm a bit of a newbie to all of this so I might need a little more help/clarification. You said "Parasound JC" which amp is that specifically?

Also, the CJ MV60SE looks like it's an older CJ tube amp? Are you recommending finding a used one?

Again, thanks for the suggestions.
vjnavarra OP
3 posts
 
Unsound,
Any thoughts on what amp to pair with the Adagio speakers?

I live in San Diego and was demoing the Adagio speakers with Robert Lee who had them hooked up to a pair of Red Dragon Leviathan Signature monoblocks (I have no clue what they cost).

The sound was amazing but I have no idea how nicely class D amps and tube preamps play together.

In talking to Robert, he didn't seem too concerned about the amp/speaker pairing. He seemed to think they'd work well with just about anything--really cool guy by the way.

Anyway, I guess that's why I was focused on choosing the right amp for the preamp.
vjnavarra OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for the responses everyone.

Usblues, I just looked at the mv60se. It looks like it's 55wpc. Do you think that is enough to drive the Adagios?
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