2. amps-preamps
  3. 1286859270

ConradJohnson--Can their vintage compete with new?

I am considering going back to separates. I owned a Conrad Johnson PV-8 tube pre-amp (1988) and liked it alot. However, I like some opinions on what might be CJ's best vintage amp and pre-amp of the last 10 years only. Would even consider reasonable, reliable, modifications if worthwhile and audible. (Unfortunately, CJ's new separates are very too expensive). I have a Creek SE5350 Classic, but can't find another integrated that fits my needs and power requirements and price range. All opinions and comments welcomed. Thank you
sunnyjim
hifihvn
943 posts
 
A little older,but nice.The CAV-50 integrated.
artmaltman
769 posts
 
I found the CAV-50 to be extremely warmed sounding with rolled highs. Not saying to avoid it; rather, it needs careful system matching. Also, this is the only CJ piece I ever heard that went to this extreme. Usually they have a nice natural level of detail (as opposed to extreme "in your face" detail or rolled off).

This might be an over-generalization, but the CJ family sound has evolved a bit over years from being very tubey/warm and with natural detail to being more neutral and fast these days, still beautiful and with natural detail. So the vintage you choose is likely to reflect this evolution in sound.

Art
dwr
113 posts
 
I am using a PV-14L preamp in my system that was modified by RHB Sound Dezign. I went this route as opposed to upgrading to another preamp. I am completely happy with the sound of this preamp now and am very glad I did not go the route of buying another preamp. I would seriously recommend if you go with an older CJ pre or amp to consider the RHB mods as a very good way to go.
steveaudio
331 posts
 
".....what might be CJ's best vintage amp and pre-amp of the last 10 years only"

Uuummmm......SS, or tube? Price range? C-J has made so many excellent components over the years, it's hard to answer w/o narrowing it down (the very "best" I'm guessing are the most expensive).

FWIW, I own a C-J Mf2250 amp, & a PF-R pre-amp, that I use in my "bedroom system". If you want SS, they're both great sounding components, & probably a lot better sounding than most integrateds...
More to discover