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VTL 5.5 VS CJ Premier 17

I have CJ electronics in my system comprising a PV-14 LS2 preamp and a 2500A power amp. I recently tried a VTL TL 5.5 preamp and thought it provided a lot more dynamics, more precise soundstage and air around the instruments. Although the highs of the VTL were a little more extended than my PV-14, I thought both had similar signatures with a sweet overall presentation.Which I like.

I haven't tried a Premier 17 ls or even a CT6 in my system and live away from CJ dealers. The VTL 5.5 has a lower MSRP than both upgrades I could make with CJ. Should I grab the VTL without looking back or should I go for a Premier 17 or CT6 and grab one without giving it a listen ?
andr

Showing 2 responses by pops

pops
2,275 posts
 
Andr, don't give up on the premier 14, I've had one for years. I am a fan of the CJ musicality matched up with the articulation of a solid state amp. The premier 14 would be a big upgrade to the PV14 in every respect.
pops
2,275 posts
 
Andr the premier 14 is FAR from syrupy sounding, it is the closest thing CJ got to solid state sounding prior to the original LS17. It will melt your ears if the recording or an upstream component demands it. OHO it improved dramatically on the warm sounding CJ pre's prior to it, but managed to keep that luscious CJ midrange and improve on extension and air. I'm not trying to change your mind, VTL 5.5 is very nice, I just prefer CJ preamps and the premier 14 in particular. Plus, I don't change equipment very often, I've had Thiel 3.6 for 10 years and the premier 14 for about 9 years...thats a lifetime in audiophile years!
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