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Conrad-Johnson Premier 11a-a good used amp?

Hi. I am considering purchase of a C-J Premier 11a (used, there are a couple up on a-gon right now) and was wondering what the consensus on this amp is? I have relatively easy to drive Soliloquy 6.3's, and my listening tastes are mostly jazz and orchestra, at moderate volumes. I have a wonderful tube preamp (EE Minimax) that I would like to mate with a musical, yet detailed amp. I don't want something toooo lush/syrupy, but kind of a liquid, yet detailed sound (which is exactly what the Minimax is for a preamp). In my system, I have had a McCormack DNA-125 (nice amp, but not detailed enough and has some grain) and audioned a PS Audio HCA-2 (very nice amp-great detail and extension, nice liquid presentation for SS), but many owners documented troubles turned me off).

How does the Premier 11a stack up against these? Is it more "new-school" tubes (detailed with a rich presentation)or more old-school (excessively warm and lush)? Thanks!
chiho

Showing 2 responses by czbbcl

czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
I owned one and loved it. I was driving a pair of Thiel 3.6's and it wasn't quite enough power for them hence the reason for selling. However mid to high end detail was supberb with only the bass end lacking a bit. I listen to primarily classical (symphonic and chamber pieces) and female jazz vocals at moderate volumes. Still sorry I sold it!!!!!!! And as naimfan mentioned it is basically free hifi. I would say go for it especially if your speakers are relatively efficient.

Chuck
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
Brainwater

Boy, I couldn't agree more. CJ designs just have a musicality about them that I believe most others simply can not match. As they say "It Just Sounds Right." So what amps are you buying it sounds like a pair of Premier 140's in monobloc. I am currently utilizing an MF2500a / 16lsII combination. I am looking to upgrade to the premier 350. I love tube amps but with the way my system is racked there simply isn't the room for a tube amp let alone tube monoblocs. Plus tube amps and my wife do not mix. Good Luck and yes I am envious.

Chuck
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