I agree with Pops, get a tube pre with your Classe, I have Classe amps with an Audio Research preamp, no looking back for me. I haven't had the opportunity to hear CJ pre's, but I have owned a couple of different Audio Research pre's and I love 'em. The AR pre's are available here and on other used sites and are a bargain, certainly MUCH less than your $2500 budget. If you need a phono stage (I'm hoping you still indulge in analog) then look for an Audio Research in the SP series, otherwise the LS series will do the trick. Jeff
Preamp for Classe CA400 and Confidence 5
I'm Looking for suggestions for a preamp to match my Classe CA400 and Dynaudio Confidence 5. I like a good, focus sound stage with emphasis on vocal. My budget is $2500 new or used. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Also, What is the pros and cons on mixing tube and Solid state? Thanks in advance. Danny.