New preamp in system


I was using Linear tube audio MZ2 no remote. There was a clear out price on the Conrad johnson ET-3SE so I ordered a brand new one since I use to own a 17LS2 10 yrs ago. Right out of the box it sounds very similar to the broken in MZ2. I will see 500 hrs later if any more changes. Maybe MZ2 a smidgen fuller & airier. I was running brimar 12bh7s & Shuaguang cv181 black treasure in my MZ2. Moral of the story is don't believe everything you read online and reviews saying this is bright and harsh. I laugh at the reviewer from Home theater review. Btw I am using the Tungsram 7dj8 not the stock 6922eh in the cj. Good luck listening!😁
kw6
As I listen more to the cj seems instrumental action is better than MZ2. Bass a bit better with cj. I think cj is a bit more detailed.
.... and for those of you that don't beleive in break-in, 
      it's already better at the ten minute mark!!!
Enjoy, kw6. It'll get even better!
Have you tried the Psvane globe 6SN7 from Grant Fidelity?  I have and love them.
I had a cj pv10 back in the day.Such a warm and musical sound.I auditioned it next to a sunfire tubed pre.The sunfire was more transparent but I loved the cj because it just "sounded right" as per their slogan:)Now I have an older rogue pre which I'm currently comparing to my new mz2.In my system the mz2 has transformed my system for the better in every way.System synergy and listening tastes are everything.The rogue will go in a second system.It's a fine component still imho.Enjoy your new cj!
kw6,

How does the ET3 compare to what you remember about the 17LS2?

I currently have a 17LS2 and have been thinking about an ET5.

Thanks for listening,

Dsper
Kw6, MZ2 with switching or LPS? 
I swapped Mullard 6201 in mine, which was great, but not as impressive as switching from switching to LPS. 
Noromance I only had the Shuaguang black treasure in there! Never heard the Psvane!
Dsper I really can't remember! At the the time I used the 17LS2 with the Prem 11A and MV60se. Before I owned the 17LS2 I auditioned Audible Ilusions, Audio research, Pass, Cary Ae3! The ET-3SE is detailed, musical throws a good soundstage & a nice presence!
Jmolsberg I had the stock digital power supply no remote. My main itch to try a new pre was I wanted a remote. And I wanted something with stepped resistors as I listen at low volume at night. I was tempted to get the new Microzotl for $4k but decided to give cj a try again. Got a great deal! I don't need a fancy pre I only have two sources streamer and old CD player Linn ikemi. All you need is a transparent volume control and a circuit that doesn't cut up the music but also you wanted some little benefit of a tube ahead of the circuit. With no tube soundstage is a little flat less depth & layering. Less in room presence. But with the cj I was more involved in the music.
Also dsper try to get home audtion. I think with new cj circuit you will get more dynamics & details. Just a guess.
kw6,

There is a local CJ dealer in Indy so a home audition might be a possibility.

I bought my CJ 17LS2 used based on CJ reputation and the reviews in "audioreview" and liked it better than an ARC LS25 that I did try at home.

Lucky, I guess. 

Dsper