Conrad Johnson Phono Preamps


Hello,

I'm considering upgrading my Conrad Johnson EF-1 Phono Preamp to their Premier 15 Phono Preamp or their Tea 2 SEHG Phono Preamp. I like the Tea 2 HG (High Gain) because it offers 55db of gain and my cartridge is a Grado MI with an Output of 1.0mV. However, the Premier 15 offers 53db of gain which would suffice.

So, are these units similar in sound? I've always liked CJ's Premier equipment, but are these two units similar or much different in their sound characteristics?

I wish I could demo them, but I can't.

Thank you for any thoughts!

 

rbschauman

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

The CJ Premier 15 is excellent but you would need a head amp if you use a low output MC cartridge.  I run one in one of my systems and use a very cost effective Hagerman Piccolo head amp with excellent results.

Call CJ and ask the same question.  Bill Conrad will probably answer the phone.