CAT Ultimate Pre Amp

Although some will tell you otherwise, I think it is the best overall performing preamp which I have heard. It certainly competes with the very best. That doesn't mean that it has synergy with every possible amp and speaker that you can mate it with. Its sonic signature can be changed significantly according to which tubes you use with it. You can buy one at Analog Shop in Liverpool? , N.Y. They are a dealer who sells nationwide. Convergent Audio Technology is in Rush, N.Y. They have no website.

Calvin,

I have had no problems with tube reliability in my CAT, which I have had for over 2 years. Were those the stock Sovteks which kept burning out. If not, which brand of tubes were they?

I use Telefunken E88CC's (6922) in V6 and V7 of the line section or sometimes Telefunken cca. In V8 and V9 I use Telefunken ECC83 (12AX7). In V10, I use Telefunken ECC88 (6DJ8). I have left the phono section with the standard Sovtek 6922's at V1, V2 and V5 along with the EI Yugo 12AX7 at V3 and V4. What do you use now?

I recently listened to the phono section which is using the stock tubes. It sounded awful. It was thin, bright and nasal sounding. Since I almost never listen to phono anymore, When the tubes in the phono section are replaced with Telefunken tubes similar to what is installed in the line section, what a difference! I have avoided using up my premium Telefunkens in the phono section. It is amazing what a difference these premium tubes make in the phono and line sections of this preamp.

Ray Hall