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Replacing Conrad Johnson PV-10

Looking for recommendations in replacing Conrad Johnson PV-10.  It's been acting up.  Used to have to turn it on, then off, then on again to get both channels working...now only one channel is working regardless of what I do.  It may be time to say goodbye.  So, I'm starting here for suggestions.  Current setup is:

Enlightened Audio Designs T-1000 (transport)

Audio Alchemy Digital Decoding Engine V3.0 (DAC)

CJ PV-10 (preamp) 

Berning EA-2100 (amplifier)

Snell E-3 (speakers)

MIT MI-330 Plus (interconnects)

Kimber Kable 8TC (speaker cables)

Open to tube or solid state preamp and new or used.  Love my system, but just want it to work.  Ideal budget is below $2K.  Nearest dealer is several hours away, so want some help narrowing down options.  Any suggestions/thoughts would be very helpful.  Thanks!

 

 

jbeckley42
wyoboy
327 posts
 

+1 what @lou_setriodes says.  Both Stereophile and Absolute Sound said TF-10 was one of the best pre's in existence at the time and used is well w/in your budget. I've only heard the amp but would imagine David designed pre and amp to be magical together...

Also, just b/c CJ couldn't figure it out 30 years ago doesn't mean they still can't.  Have you talked to them recently about it?  But seriously, you've been experiencing this problem for 30 years?  Wow--patience of Job or that CJ is really something when it's working...

biglou13
50 posts
 

Have it repaired .  

daytrader
195 posts
 

Like your set up, including the Berning 2100 into the Snell E-3s.  Fix the PV-10 and ignore the current audio press candy.   Seriously! 😏

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,566 posts
 

It is the timer relay IC.  There is one for each channel.  A local tech should be able to replace them.    Also worth sending to CJ again.  

br3098
1,038 posts
 

Were it me and if I enjoyed my system I would consider replacing the PV-10 with a Conrad Johnson Classic or (better) Classic 2 SE preamp. Same look, size and similar design to your old PV-10, but the sound is much improved and they were made with better parts. I sold a Classic a couple of years ago and I still regret it. It was the best "cheap" piece of audio gear I ever owned.

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