The Audible is a great preamp and dare I say a little more neutral than the CJ. Cj preamps have always had a sound that let you know they were CJ's.
The 3A is a great match with McCormack. It offers a dip switch internally that will reduce the gain 7db. I have used one for a lot of years. No complaints. If you talk to Art Ferris, usually he will take care of you.
I did not personally find the gain objectional but I would think this would be system and room dependent.
I am currently using one paired with my Theta Dreadnaught.
Make sure you use the tape inputs or aux. for your CD player. The CD input has a pair of resistors to "Cut CD Glare."
If you want an outboard phono, get an L-1. You can most certainly control its gain. Most feel the L1 sounds at least as good as the 3A.
Tubes make a much bigger difference with AI pre's that most others.
The 3A is a great match with McCormack. It offers a dip switch internally that will reduce the gain 7db. I have used one for a lot of years. No complaints. If you talk to Art Ferris, usually he will take care of you.
I did not personally find the gain objectional but I would think this would be system and room dependent.
I am currently using one paired with my Theta Dreadnaught.
Make sure you use the tape inputs or aux. for your CD player. The CD input has a pair of resistors to "Cut CD Glare."
If you want an outboard phono, get an L-1. You can most certainly control its gain. Most feel the L1 sounds at least as good as the 3A.
Tubes make a much bigger difference with AI pre's that most others.