CAT Preamps vs Amps

Gvatchna, Robertje and Strapper211,

Thanks for your responses. Since I am a very new owner of their Ultimate preamp, it is good to hear that based on your long-term experiences the CAT preamp is on par with their amps and that they are the best match. It seems that those who would disagree maybe having a mismatch elsewhere in their systems. Strapper's opinion is very informative since it is based on the evaluation of some very high-end brands/models and felt the CAT pre was still the best.

Thanks again. Let's see if we get some opposing views :)

I own a pair of CAT jl3 sigs and have tried the conrad johnson art2,asthetix,nagra,pass and levinson and the CAT is the best match by far for these amps.the speakers I am using are the eidolon Diamonds.It just sounds more lifelike and natural.Hope this helps.

Before I own my CAT SL1 ultimate mk2, I was using a ensemble DAC with built in pre amplifier.
Before i never could imagine what a change it would make to insert the CAT. The combination is wonderfull.
I agree with Gvatchna If CAT preamp does not work in the system, something must be wrong.

CAT preamps are at least as great as the amps. I own both and i would never use another preamp with my JL2. people who say that the Ultimate is lean should look for the problems elsewhere in their systems. Indeed,it does not mask anything like some other colored tubed preamps do. I think with CAT gear, it is not about synergy and matches. If CAT preamp does not work in the system, something must be wrong.

It would work fantastic with your JL2, and not because of synergy. It's because it is utterly neutral and transparent. That's why it works with all good amps on the planet, tube or solid state.

I can reassure you that you have not heard how transparent your JL2 is until you hear it with SL1 Ultimate. You have not heard the low end of it either.

The only close competition to CAT was Jadis JP80 which is much more expensive. It will loose in the bass dapertment to CAT. Midrange would be a close call. I think the latest Ultimate is the best all around preamp reasonable amount of money can buy.
I take it back; unreasonable amount of money too.

Get the latest CAT and you will never look back.