Need recommendation for replacement of Vintage Conrad-Johnson PV-11 preamp.

Thanks! for the update- rvpiano
Happy Listening!

Currently, with the new tubes, the CJ is sounding wonderful, especially on LP's.
i just hope it continues!
if not, I have ordered the tube socket and switch cleaner.

rvpiano

besides the service dept at Conrad Johnson, do not forget, Bill Thalmann of Musical Technologies. He is a prior CJ service technician.
Happy Listening!

You might want to try different interconnects. While your there clean and check the interconnect sockets.

Thank you tubegroover.  I wrote to Bill Thalmann about the problem.
He confirmed my suspicion that the issue had something to do with tube placement, and recommended a tube socket and switch cleaner.
I also asked what modifications he does on CJ equipment.

If you love it get it fixed, upgrading would be better yet. Along with Backers Labs, Bill Thalmann of Music Technology along with Conrad Johnson, all can do the repairs and upgrades which would be well worth the investment on a vintage CJ pre.

Lo and behold, while listening, the preamp snapped back into proper focus again: both channels are equal.
I'm wondering if the issue is a loose tube connection. The tubes are new, but the problem was constant with the old tubes
Anybody have any suggestions as to what the problem is.
Lets see if it craps out again.
 

Absolutely agree; fix it. These things tend to hold their value very well.

Thanks for he recommendation hifiman. I've contacted them to see what they can do.

Super easy preamps to work on. Get it fixed. 

I agree with rvpiano above.  If you have the available money you could look up RHB Dezigns located in Churchville, PA and give Bob Backert a call.  He would be able to fix your PV-11 and could recommend various sonic improvements he could do to it.  Bob has extensively modded my PV-12L.  The PV-11 is a beautiful sounding piece.  If there is any particular sonic aspect you wish it had but does not have in stock form, then Bob is your man.  He has specialized in working on cj gear for many many years.  He has recently launched his own preamp line under the corporate name Backert Labs.

Thanks, yogiboy, I didn't think of that

If you like it you should give CJ a call, I'm sure they will repair it!