2. amps-preamps
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Conrad Johnson Premier 18LS pre-amp??. Need feedback from owner or former owners

I am looking at a Conrad Johnson Premier 18LS pre-amp. I was able to find one old review in Stereophile from 8 years ago  . I could not find others.  

My question: is this model an outstanding SS pre-amp as some testimonials claim ( see the Audioreview blog), even though issued in 2004( ?). I might be able to buy a used unit for $1100-$1200.  Therefore, I need feedback and comments about the pre-amp from owner or former owners, or anyone who knows this pre-amp.

Also,  how might it compared to the current Coda CP preamp which "might" be available  at the same price as the CJ 18LS.    Either pre-amp would be hooked to a BAT VK-200 amp which has both balanced and unbalanced connectors.  The CJ 18LS  has  all RCA's, and the Coda is a mix of RCA and XLR connectors.  

Despite the price, I am NOT sure the CJ 18LS would be a wise choice because of its age and lack of usable features (for me). However, it comes with a good remote  BTW,   a Rogue RP-1 is $1695 has several usable features I need. but I was not impressed by its sound. It also received mixed reviews   Thanks.!!!


   

sunnyjim
7 responses Add your response
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
We all have our preferences, whether voice, or a particular piano, say Yamaha, Steinway... Alto Sax, Selmer Mark IV or another, Strad Violin versus other classics. 
Me, I've always loved the sound of CJ. For over thirty years now, I have appreciated the warm sound, the great imaging, and the overall smoothness of their gear, both Amps and Preamps.
For the price of $1100./$1200. I'm not sure you could go wrong.

Larry 
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 

To Larry, Thank you for the comment about the CJ pre-amp. Unfortunately, it was sold.

So, I am back to square one again.   No problem, I will just continue the search..

lrsky
1,118 posts
 
sunnyjim,
There are probably lots of CJ Pre Amps out there these days, and at a good price. Be patient. They're worth waiting for.
Good luck
Larry

jafant's avatar
jafant
19,737 posts
 
sunnyjim-

have you demo'ed the ET-3 (SE) or CT-5 pre-amps from CJ?
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 
Jafant, Did not audition either;  they are both out of my price range, even used, and neither has a phono stage.  There is an ET-3 on sale on AG for $2495, and a ET-3 SE  for $2995.  According to CJ, and a few reviews I have read, the SE version is much better because it has far superior parts.  Thanks
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
Jim,
Another thought, think of Jadis.  You may luck out and find one of their preamps. They have a wonderful smoothness that is seductive. Not the same voicing as a cj, but wonderful. Some prefer it to cj. I love it too.
That broadens your search.
Good Luck and happy holidays.
Larry

lrsky
1,118 posts
 
Jim,
Another thought, think of Jadis.  You may luck out and find one of their preamps. They have a wonderful smoothness that is seductive. Not the same voicing as a cj, but wonderful. Some prefer it to cj. I love it too.
That broadens your search.
Good Luck and happy holidays.
Larry

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