Conrad Johnson Premier 12, how powerful?


I've read in several places that the CJ Premier 12 is not great for inefficient speakers. This is surprising given that they're rated 140 wpc. How inefficient is inefficient? I have Opera Callas monitors, which are 87 db. Is this inefficient? I'm trying to find a tube amp, but power is very important. I don't like merely 'adequate' power.
rfprice

Showing 4 responses by rfprice

The Opera Callas are 8 ohm. I'm afraid I don't know about the impedance curve. My room is fairly small and I listen mostly at low volumes, but I've found that low volume listening is where you appreciate power the most. So far with these speakers I've auditioned the Mcintosh 2275, which is rated 75 wpc, and found it anemic. Then I tried the ARC 55 wpc integrated, and that had very good power with these speakers. Go figure. With the CJ, 140 wpc of tube power seems enormous, so I'm confused as to why several sources warn about matching this amp with inefficient speakers.

But thanks for your responses. I'm fairly convinced that these would be fine with my speakers.
Hmmm... Now I'm discouraged to hear that the 12 is not quick. My impression from the reviews was the opposite, that they are quick, and quicker than previous CJ gear. I've only heard the MV60SE from CJ, and loved the quickness and overall presentation, but thought I could do better for the money.