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c-j buffs: MV-55 vs. Premier 11a

Anyone auditioned (preferably owners) conrad-johnson's two recently discontinued stereo tubed amp offerings head-to-head in the same system? I am an MV-55 owner who is very happy with the sound (fed from my c-j PV-8 pre-amp, through Thiel CS2 2 floorstanding 3-ways via all-Cardas Cross), but may be needing more power soon, and am considering the Premier 11a. I know the Premier ought to be better in theory, but apparently some folks have demurred - true or not, and if so, why? Also, anybody tried rolling tube types on the 11a? All input from those with personal experience is much appreciated! Thanks, Alex
zaikesman

Showing 1 response by billimbriale

billimbriale
21 posts
 
I owned both the 55 and the Premier 11A at the same time. Speakers were stock Acoustat 1+1s. I found the 11A superior in the bass: tighter sounding, but not too tight and of course it had more power.
However in every other way and overall I clearly preferred the 55. Through the 1+1s, it was richer, brought out the lower mids, and was generally more musical.
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