CJ ET3SE vs ATC-1 or ET5 vs ATC-2


So I have a Conrad Johnson PR140, rebuilt by CJ usilizing KT 120 tubes. I have Sonus Faber Luito 3 way floor standing speakers. Decent enough cables. I need a preamp. Bouncing between the Airtight and the Conrad Johnson. Not only bouncing on the entry level, but the step above taking me from the $4000 range to the $8000. Well, whick is the better pre, and do I need to step up to the middle of the road products or will the entry level work wonders. Thanks
kingrex

Showing 2 responses by kingrex

I have decided to go CJ, but torn between the ET-3SE and the ET-5. I had a budget of $4000. I could get the SE with a Phono for that budget. However, I keep hearing the ET-5 is really noticeably better. It's killing me. I could find the money, but that is a lot of money. It is hard to wrap my head around spending $7000+ for one piece of stereo equipment. Am I nuts. Would you really have to listen hard to hear the difference, or does it really jump out at you.
I questioned to CJ on their opinion, ET vs ET3-SE. First step per them, upgrade the amp with the C1 cap upgrade. The ET3-SE with that amp is outstanding. Even more noticeable will be the enhancement of the ET5. Since they have my amp in hand to perform other maintenance, I am thinking the upgrade is wise. I have to wait for a tech to get back to me when the amp is on a bench to find the real pricing of the operation. I may have no choice on preamps once I have to sink additional money into the amp. Kind of bummed my $3,100 amp is becoming a $5,300 amp. I was not anticipating doubling the cost to get into the system.