2. amps-preamps
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Which is REALLY the best Conrad Johnson Preamp

I would like to start a discussion about what you think is the best sounding CJ Preamp. Just because the manufacturer needs to change to sell more boxes and Magazines need advertising dollars doesn't always mean that the sonics have improved. For example some audiophiles like the older art series over the new GAT Preamps and it's lesser siblings. Would like the informed opinions of those lucky audiophiles who have heard both. I like the old CJ sound but haven't heard the new offerings.
128x128baranyi
zenblaster
504 posts
 
I find the sound of my CJ PV 10 to be on the warm side of the 50 yard line. It still seems nimble, almost fast to react to changes in the music. Never rolled, it seems to be a pretty clean window to whatever front end you are using.
I realize you get a different level of dynamics and refinement with the more expensive CJ pre's but would you say that CJ has a sonic signature that is consistant in their various preamps?
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Zen
you never rolled tubes. That can be a lot of fun if it doesn't become an obsession. You would be surprised how well some gear responds to rolling.
dsholl1
99 posts
 
Just bought an ET5…wow!
aspens
21 posts
 
I know this thread is vintage now. But I’m curious how among the various C-J preamp/linestage options, how the PV15 LS stacks up. Also, CJ offers an upgrade in capacitors, so you can have a PV15, for example, upgraded with the Teflon caps they use now. Thank you in advance for someone responding.
jafant
18,944 posts
 

aspens-


I would consult Bill Thalmann at Music Techology in VA

or Jack Tozzi at Spearit Sound in MA. Both of these guys know CJ products and can offer sound (no pun) advice w/o any sales pitch.


Happy Listening!

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