Although not plentiful, the CJ Premiere 10 would be a step up from the PVs and still come in within your budget. Cheers,
Spencer
Modern "Vintage" Sounding Preamps
I like my current preamps (upgraded & restored Acurus LS-11 & CJ PF1) but I'm wanting something at the other end of the spectrum. My preamps, being SS, are towards the "accurate" and "clean" part of the spectrum. What preamps (tube or SS) in your experience lean heavily the soft/warm/forgiving end of the spectrum? Caveats are they must be affordable (under $2K American new or used) and less than 20 years old. Yes, I'm sure a CJ PV5 is just the ticket, but it'd need rebuilding or, if rebuilt, would push well above $2K ...
Showing 2 responses by sbank
@greg7 A number of very good comments about parts and upgrade opportunities with the SP-11 and other AR & CJ preamps. If you decide to go that route, you may want to consider upgrades by Backert Labs. They evolved from a predecessor company RHB Sound Designz that grew a wide following by doing upgrades to CJ and Audio Research gear. They're in Pennsylvania, USA. Cheers, Spencer |