CJ preamps?

Electroid, the OP was referring to Canary Audio's CA-200 passive preamp, not CJ's CA200 control amp.

Cnary Audio CA-200 Passive Preamp

Joekapahulu, you do understand that the Canary unit you referenced is a passive unit, right?

Thanks for all the input. I dont need a tt for this system. I had never heard a tube pre b4 and liked the sound of it although I understand that the sound of the early models in this series sound different than the later ones. Not sure if I would like one vs the other more. Sound was definitely better than my current 30 year old SAE 2900 ss preamp/equalizer. I live in Hawaii and there is no real high end scene here so I am limited in terms of hearing stuff.

Interest in the Canary Audio was simply curiousity if I might like a passive preamp as that should "add" nothing to the sound and would have an improved shot at hearing the recording as mastered. I am using a Cambridge Audio 840c with an ATI 1502 power amp into Ohm Walsh 2-S100s or Spendor S3/5 speakers. Just experimenting to find a mix that I like. Went from a Mcintosh 5100 that was kind of nice but underpowered to the ATI. It delivered good power but was a little edgy so i am trying to "fix" that now.I couldnt tell if that was the pre or the power amp....

Among the vintage models, the PV-5 - the archetype of CJ preamps - or its immediate descendant, the PV-8 offer that wonderfully glowing CJ sonic. If you can reach beyond the PV line, apart from the ART, the Premier 16 is the pinnacle of 20th Century CJ preamps.

Electroid, you're going to get a diverse set of opinions. All (OK, almost all) of the CJ preamps are great; some more than others. My preferences in your price range are the PV-12 and the Premier 14. These will provide you with the warm, lush sound that CJ affectionados prefer. If you want to try something more neutral sounding the PF-R is a great solid state amp that still retains some of the signature CJ sound.

Thanks BR, I thought he meant the CJ CA-200. I use a passive now myself that utilizes a good Vishay resistor ladder like the better CJ preamps. The PV-14 is the cheapest one CJ made with that volume control. It could be purchased with or without a phono stage. Cheers!

ET