2. amps-preamps
  3. 146954-91258

Conrad Johnson preamp: ET5, ET7 (series 1 or 2) or ET3SE ??

Have always been a CJ preamp fan, but never an owner.  Taking a serious look at them again.  Of the ET series, I have only heard the ET5, and that was some years ago.  So I started looking for a used ET5, and in the process finding 7, 3, and 3SE, making me expand my thinking.

i wonder if anyone has compared the five models?  As I understand it, the 5 was replaced by the 7, which was then updated to the 7 series 2.  Does it necessarily follow that the 7 is better than the 5, with the 7series 2 even better yet?  And looking at reviews, TAS loves the 3SE, so is it “almost” as good as the 5 or7?  I also know that the 3 is upgradable to the 3SE, and the 7 series 1 to the current 7 series 2, providing a couple additional paths to consider.  i should state that all are within my budget, so that while I don’t mind saving money with the 3SE, I have money for the 7 (used) in my audio budget.

I really wonder if someone has really compared any combination of the above, such that you could help me eliminate one or more of the possibilities, or help me focus on one or two units.

I know that it will be system dependent, so I am running Naim digital and Naim preamp into a Primaluna HP amp, driving Proac monitors in a near field set up.  I listen to mostly female vocalists, acoustic rock and acoustic jazz.  I love soundstage and bass is not important to me.

((not that I want the discussion to go sideways, but this kind of opens up the philosophical question of, given a specific company, are the new models better than the past year models, and the more expensive units better than those less expensive, and is an update/upgrade always an improvement.))

thanks for your thoughts,

Bill
meiatflask

Showing 2 responses by pops

pops
1,847 posts
 
I have been a CJ fan for years and currently own 2 models - a premier 14 and ET5 which you inquired about. The ET5 is airy, detailed, throws a wide clear soundstage with a very smooth revealing top end. I have used it with the stock EH and Philips tubes which CJ supplies. I prefer the EH out of the 2 and actually have a NOS semiens that I have not tried yet.

I like both units and am actually using my premier 14 with mullards currently. For me, it matches better with my Thiels and gives a slightly warmer, richer presentation. I have not heard the other models you mentioned. I like switching them in and out on occasion but may part with the ET5 one day as I prefer the classic CJ sound. You can’t go wrong with CJ preamps.
pops
1,847 posts
 
@clearthink which ones have your heard?  With what components?

You are obviously entitled to your take but the newer models with CJD teflon caps are anything but what you describe.

And FYI not everyone listens to digital.
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