Convergent Audio Preamps


I need some help understanding the line up of CAT preamps. I see "SL-1", "MKI" , "MKII", "MK III" "signature" and "ultimate" all over the place. Are these all various historical iterations of a single preamp, or are are they different models offered at the same time?

How many current products in the line? Would someone mind tellign me the historical sequence... and if possible, how each subsequent iteration changed the overall character?

THANKS! Art
artg

Showing 4 responses by artg

Hi all. I ordered a new SL1 ultimate, MK II which I expect in the next 2-3 weeks. I'm very excited as I hear the CAT+ Berning is a wonderful match. Anyway, I have a tube question:

Regarding the linestage, I understand there are 3 6922's and 2 12AX7's. I happen to own a matched PAIR of the very ecellent 1960 vinatge (US-made) Amperex "Pinched Waist" PQ 6922's which I used to wonderful effect in my former First Sound preamp. Naturally, Im thinking they would also sound fab in the CAT, but the CAT used three of these. So in what positions does it make most sense to try the PW's in?

I dont know much about what these tubes do to the signal individually, but I would think that 1 or 2 of them might be more sensitive, hence, I would try them in those positions. I know I could call Ken, but I am sure he would poo poo the whole thing, as i recall he's not for rolling tubes in his gear, but i want to try. You dont need a degree in operations research to figure out that there would be 3 possible ways to insert 2 tubes into three slots, and I guess i could just do it and listen, but i figured I would tap the collective AG community.

Thanks - Art
thanks bombaywalla! That is exactly the info i was looking for. Just curious, ever roll the tubes in yours? Art