Conrad Johnson Phono Preamps

@billstevenson +1 Definitely, use low gain phono pre with a SUT.   It’s been a number of years ago so trying to remember the specifics but per Bob, he did not recommend using his SUT (any ratio) with the Pr.15. 

OP 

An AI is a great place to start  on any general questions. Sonic characteristics, theories of consciousness, what spice pallet would you recommend for use with lamb. When you get to specific components... you have to be more careful and check all the recommendations... it can get those surprisingly wrong. 

Thanks for the responses, gentlemen.

I had an unforeseen opportunity come about yesterday and bought a Premier 15. I also have CJ's Premier 12 mono blocks and their Premier 16LS Preamplifier. So, this should all work together nicely.

I realize this limits me in cartridge, but I'm old school and love the CJ Premier equipment. I'll be fine. 

Thank you, @marco1 for sharing your experience with this piece, stating "so if you like the CJ golden sound, you’ll love this pre" I absolutely do. AND "per Bob, he did not recommend using his SUT (any ratio) with the Pr.15" That's good to know.

Thank you, @billstevenson for stating "You can’t go wrong with one from Bob’s Devices.  His SUTs sound great". Should I ever change this setup out and need a SUT, I will start here.

Thank you, @ghdprentice for the word of caution!

Your Cartridge output of 1.0 mV is a problem, too weak for most MM RIAA and too strong for most SUTs 

And, let’s not forget, some people get HUM from some Grado Cartridges

so, love CJ, get thee a MM cartridge with a normal high output of 3 to 5 mV to go straight into a MM RIAA input.

and, next get a true low output MC cartridge, with output of say 0.3 to 0.5 mV that requires a SUT, perhaps 10:1, so out of the SUT would be 3 to 5 mv

And, if you go LOMC, you need to learn about impedance. What fun!

I got help here, and put this on the site after making my 1st MC choice, AT33PTG/II

https://www.audiogon.com/systems/11318

Hello RB,  I'm going to throw the monkey wrench into this post.

I am a huge C-J fan.  I had a EF-1,(gave it to the daughter) still have a Premier 17ls pre-amp, and LP66S amp.  Last year I was having the same thoughts as you are now.  I decided to try a Schitt Audio Skoll F Phono Stage.  $400 and loaded with enough features for any Audiophile.  If you don't like it, they will take it back and refund you the full amount.  I hooked the Skoll F up and haven't looked back.  I've been very pleased, and have said so on this forum!  I recommend you give them a try.  Good equipment doesn't need to cost an arm and a leg.  Good luck!  Lou