The c-j PV-8, 11, and 12 (all zero-feedback, cathode-follower designs) were all positioned above and cost more than the PV-10 in their day. I own an 8 w/phono and like it a lot, but I've thought about trying to find an 11 w/phono because the 8 has more gain than I ever need while the 11 (and 12) have less, probably resulting in a higher S/N ratio and a more wide-open volume pot setting (also, their tubesets are more commonly available types). The 12 alone has a stepped attenuator for volume rather than a pot, but lacks the Left/Right/Mono control that I like for old vinyl playback (I believe it's the "a" version of the 12 that also has a sturdier chassis than the others). Of course, all of these lack remotes, and don't do balanced operation. I do think the sound of my 8 is slightly euphonic, what I describe as a "sunny" sound, but this only really becomes obvious in comparision to CD playback going straight into the amp. I enjoy its sound and consider it to be true high-fidelity in terms of response, extension, grainlessness, resolution, naturalness, space, and musicality, but the later units do have a reputation (unconfirmed by me) of being a little more nuetral, dynamic, and transparent overall. What it is not is dry, hard, thin, or fatiguing. The phono section is quite good but may lack the last word in bass power, and is best with a medium output cartridge. c-j's website has good info on all the past models.
