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Conrad Johnson ACT2 against Audio Research Ref 3

I am in the market for a nice line stage preamp. My list has been narrowed down to 2 preamps based on reviews and many listening sessions availabe to me. I do have a local Audio research dealer and have heard and loved the Ref 3 but not Conrad/Johnson. Any thoughts regarding the ACT 2 is greatly appreciated. Thanks.....
ginas
downunder
1,328 posts
 
I have yet to read the new TAS. Valin is a long time lover of ARC gear. Pity he hasn't reviewed cj gear for some time. would have been interesting to hear his HP junior speak on the two.

Both cj and ARC very successful in their own versions of musical reproduction.
oneobgyn
410 posts
 
"ARC has more detail up front, IMO ARC can be more hi fi sounding.
Overall cj easier to listen to over a wider range of recordings.
let the flames begin:)"

It is not an issue of flames but an understanding of what flavor for each of us rocks our sonic boat.
CJ ACT 2 is indeed a fine preamp. Just not my flavor. The ARC Ref 3 for me and my tastes simply lights up my ears.
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
Oneobgin, what don't you like about the CJ Act 2?
oneobgyn
410 posts
 
There is nothing I don't like about it. I just like the Ref 3 better. As I said it is a flavor thing and the ARC sonic signature for me is what excites my auditory nerves.
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
I understand perfectly Oneobgin, after all. . . I am 'pregnant with Ref 3' right now! Yet, as I have never heard the CJ ACT 2, I thought of asking you what the ACT 2's particular 'flavor' is, in your view.
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