2. amps-preamps
  3. 1313869701

Need advice on CJ preamps

I currently have a conrad-johnson classic SE preamp. I am very happy with the sound. However, the lack of remote is a major problem for me. I have no other experience with CJ preamps so I would appreciate some advice from people with more ownership experience.

I want to upgrade to a CJ preamp that has a remote. I can go as high as $2400 used. I'm looking for basically the same rich sound this clasic SE preamp has but with a remote. If I could pay to just add remote capability to this preamp I would gladly do it, but that is not possible so I must upgrade. Which CJ preamp?

One other option is to save up for a new ET3 SE, but it's currently out of my price range.

Thanks for any advice! : )
jaxwired

Showing 3 responses by lloydelee21

lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
I have owned CJ preamps for over 12 years and just got a third one. Totally agree...16II is stunning and matches the description of what you are looking for, as far as i can tell. Given that you like the Classic, i would be surprised if you were disappointed with 17 or 16. Good luck and enjoy!!!
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
i owned the pv14l...on its own, it is a warm, smooth pre...but in comparison to ARC Ref 3 or the later CJs, there is a clear fuzziness...i would def go with Bob Backert to mod it.
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
Dwr,

what you describe is exactly what many people have described with Bob's work...great! and Enjoy!!!

Tomcy6,

i'm no techie...CJ use switching relays to increase the sound, where the unit switches on and off each relay as it steps up the volume. that is the clicking noise. Someone has to take it from here as to why individual relays are better...less circuitry in the way?
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