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new CJ sound compared to old CJ sound

I am considering going back to a CJ linestage. Having owned the ART, the 16LS series 1 , and the premier 14 , I am familiar with the great dynamics, dimensionality, and that draw you in to the music quality those units had while in front of my old premier 8a amps. I was wondering if any of you have had any experience w/ the CT-5 or ACT2, and how the new CJ house sound may compare w/ the previous units I have owned. It would not be much of a surprise to hear the newer models are quieter, more dynamic, and have greater detail, but do they still retain all the qualities of the older units while doing so?
fjn04

Showing 2 responses by jtimothya

jtimothya
612 posts
 
From my perspective the short answer to your questions is: Yes.

On the CJ web site is a link to a Martin Colloms review of the ACT2 which includes comparisons to the ART and the 16LS. My own review of the ACT2 at soundstage.com does a direct comparison between the ACT2 and 16LS series 1. (Sorry for being a tout, but it seems relevant :-). Sounds like you've plenty of experience with CJ gear.

I have not heard the CT-5 yet - it is quite new and I don't believe CJ is advertising it just yet. A report I've had from someone who has heard it lends credence to the notion that the CT-5 is to the 16LS as the ACT2 is to the ART. Hope this helps.
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jtimothya
612 posts
 
Thank you Brent for the kind words.

While I never thought of CJ preamps as sounding 'blah' or 'sleepy', I agree with Bombaywalla that the 16LS represents a less caramel-colored, less yin-like approach. This is not to say that current models do not reflect the CJ heritage. Rich harmonics, superb dynamics and timing, clarity, focus, vitality, and a lower noise floor - yes, imo, the top of the line continues to progress quite nicely, and the mid-lower price points benfit from their innovations. While reflecting its heritage, the ACT2 is, at the same time, a magical leap forward - a preamp so good I found it far easier to listen to than think about - which is a good place to be!
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