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CJ Premier 16LS2 upgrade suggestions

Please share with me your experience in upgrading CJ preamps in general and the Premier 16LS2 in particular. My speakers are Focal 1008 BE monitors on Sound Anchor stands. Sources are an OPPO BDP 95 and a Sonic Frontiers SFT-1 transport and Processor III DAC. The preamplifier is a Premier 16LS2. The amplifier is a Premier IIA which has just received CJ's Teflon Cap upgrade. Speaker cables and interconnects are Siltech.
I am quite pleased with the system overall, and very pleased with the 11A upgrade ($1450), nonetheless I can't help myself and would like to continue improving the system. CJ offers a similar upgrade for the 16LS2, but at $5,500 it is far outside of my budget. I appreciate any thoughts you are willing to share. Thanks for your time.
mfoley3
pcs
109 posts
 
Mr Foley,

I upgraded from the 16s2 to c-j's ct-5 and was thrilled at the time. The ct-5 maintained the c-j sound but increased the clarity etc. One of my favorite upgrades. The new, lower priced ET-3SE also has the teflon caps and is a smoking great bargain in my opinion. I have both the CT-5 and ET-3SE with built in phono. Both are terrific pieces.

contact me if you wish to discuss privately.

Regards,
Paul
phaelon
1,038 posts
 
Hi Mfoley3, For years, I ran my Mini Utopias with the Premier 17LS preamp and both the Premier 11a and Premier V amps. In my opinion, the 16LS2 is your strongest component. Also, I found that the Premier 11a likes a really easy load, even easier than my Mini Utopias which are easier than your 1008 BEs. But perhaps the new caps changed that.
mfoley3 OP
47 posts
 
Hi Phaelon, I've had the 11A since it was new. Over the last year, I've been using it with the Electra 1008 BEs. The change resulting from the Cap upgrade has been quite positive, with essentially all elements of its sonic performance improved.
I appreciate your perspective on the 16LS2. Perhaps I should consider an alternative CJ preamp rather than looking to upgrade it?
Thanks for your time.
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