cellorover

Responses from cellorover

Remarkably better sound possible with just 1 system component change?
I have read and re-read the comments. My initial response is not to jump. I recently felt that there was a layer of "fuzz" in my system. I tried 3 different power amps and a new preamp (watch for a sale soon). In the end I added Isoacoustic Gaia f... 
Remarkably better sound possible with just 1 system component change?
I have read and re-read the comments. My initial response is not to jump. I recently felt that there was a layer of "fuzz" in my system. I tried 3 different power amps and a new preamp (watch for a sale soon). In the end I added Isoacoustic Gaia f... 
Preamp thoughts- Conrad Johnson ET7 S2 V McIntosh C2600
Rooze. Glad to share some thoughts. IMO, the ET5 with a Mazda 7308 NOS or Cca NOS is better than the C2600 so maybe that is a baseline for you. The Herron gives the ET5 as good run for the money, and may edge it out. Then there is the ET7S2. As I ... 
Preamp thoughts- Conrad Johnson ET7 S2 V McIntosh C2600
I had not listened to McIntosh for years, but the MC275 VI got my attention. I almost bought one for a third system. So, this lead me to listened to some of their other products. Based on the price, the C2500 is a very good preamp, but to my ears,... 
Conrad Johnson CAV45-S2 8 ohm? 4 ohm? Other?
Tone Publications has a new review out on the CAV45S2. Mine has become my daily listener. Giving my CJ ET7 and CJ Classic 120SE some time off for good behavior. I will more than likely do the Teflon cap upgrade on the CAV45. It is so easy to liste... 
Conrad Johnson CAV45-S2 8 ohm? 4 ohm? Other?
Mezzanine, the factory can configure the amp for 16 ohms, which would be what you need. 
Conrad Johnson CAV45-S2 8 ohm? 4 ohm? Other?
It is 4 ohms. All CJ amps are 4 ohms. It also puts out more power than 45 watts. It is in essence a Classic 62 with input and volume control. With Sophia Electric EL 34s it is sonically closer to amps costing twice as much.  
What Class A is better? SUGDEN FPA-4 or PASS LABS XA-25
As a former speaker manufacturer, I have listened to many, many amps and I have always liked the Sudgen sound.  Clean, pure, sweet, natural. For that matter, I like Class A amps. The FPA4, discontinued in 2019, was based on the A21, so you have so... 
Conrad Johnson and Herron comparisons
saika2,The products on Keith's website represent his new line. They evolved over 20+ years. I had the M1s and then had him upgraded them to the M1As. I am not sure if there is a M1A to M2 upgrade, but am happy with my M1As and my CJ tubes. You wou... 
Anyone own the new conrad-johnson ART27A amplifier?
Joe, I have spent time with ART27A and it may be the best amp I have ever heard.  Aside from its sound, Jeff hit the ball out of the park with the new metal work. It is elegant. Sonically, it take KT88s to a whole new level. The sound is pure, cle... 
Conrad Johnson and Herron comparisons
Let me chime in again. First, good discussion. To clarify the ET5 does not burn through its tube. CJ initially shipped that preamp with an EH6922 and that tube by its nature would get noisy faster than other tubes. So, jjss49's suggestion to repla... 
Conrad Johnson and Herron comparisons
I agree with your assessment. Neutral is the new goal for most manufacturers. My ET5 sounds best with a Mazda 7308, better than my CCA. Herron balances transparency, tube magic, musical, and clarity. I love both and spend a lot of time changing ca... 
Conrad Johnson and Herron comparisons
jjss49 asked the right question. So, let me try to compare apples to apples. I own both brands. Keith makes very good equipment - musical, detailed, engaging - as does CJ. I have had my Herron power amps for close to 14 years, with upgrades.  I ha... 
Conrad Johnson or PrimaLuna
I have listened to most of the PrimaLuna line and have always liked them. They sound good, are musical & engaging, built well, and offer good service. I can say the same for CJ ( disclaimer - I provide concierge service for CJ and few other ma... 
Monitors for Pass Labs 60 INT
Udisa, I would call the sound more warm than dark. There was a fullness and richness to the sound. Maybe not the soundstage I like the best, but no real complaints...it would be splitting "thick" hairs. I think with a better preamp (maybe tubes) t...