2. amps-preamps
  3. 1306959374

Nagra plp versus CAT ultimate mk 2

Hello there , i would like some worthwhile opinions .
I have the nagra plp now running for 3 years and im sort of ready for something new.
I can switch/exchange it with a closed wallet for the cat with phono as mentioned.
I like the nagra and will do some extensive listening at the shop before i switch off course .
The thing i like about the nagra is that it is dynamic and clean .
Th cat might have a bit more force/grunt and more " tonal colours" at least thats what i read and heard .
Its off course practical for a phono /dvd system only, just as the plp
andromedaaudio

Showing 7 responses by pubul57

pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I think Jafox got it precisely. For tonal colors, I would look at the Joule preamps. I love both the CAT and the Joule, but between the two the Joule gives you more of what you are looking for, but both are world-class preamps that anyone could be happy with.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
OP, dynamic and clean -- yes that too describes the CAT. Can't imagine not being happy with any of the choices mentioned:) Local product support, might drive your decision. Good luck.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Did you try changing tubes on the phono stage?
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Not sure about tube location as I only owned the linestage version. Not sure you actually have a problem with tube, but they can get noisy over time and it always seems to be good practice to put in a new set of tubes when you buy used gear, you never really know how much mileage is on the tubes. It certainly seemed to be a very quiet linestage, but phono stages can be problematic unless you have very low noise tubes.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
There are many happy catophiles:)
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
You may also want to try Roger Modjeski at tubeaudiostore.com - the best tube tester in the business IMHO. Not sure how his prices compare with trying to buy direct from Ken Stevens (CAT), my understanding is the Roger now does the testing for CAT tubes that come with the equipment, so......
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
CAT JL2 is one of the best amps in the world IMHO, would have kept it if my speakers were not such an easy load, making OTL a viable alternative. One can look forever, but is you can't settle down with the SL1/JL2, it would be for reason other than sound quality, they make a SOTA pairing - but those amps do run HOT!
More to discover