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Advice on possible preamp upgrade

I currently use a CJ PV-14L as my 2 channel preamp and am looking for advice and opinions as to whether it is a worth while change to go to another preamp with a budget limit of 2K. I am looking at either an Audio Research SP-16 or 17, or a Cary SLP-03. My system is a combo 2 channel, H/T system so I need a preamp with a H/T bypass. I use a Jolida JD-1000P as my amp and Geddes Abbey 12A speakers. I do not need the preamp to have a phono so a linestage is fine, but if someone has a suggestion in my price range that includes a phono section that is fine. I am not unhappy with the CJ preamp I am just wondering if I can do any better with something in the 2K and under range, if not I will stay with the CJ. I prefer tube preamps but if someone has a suggestion for a SS unit I will consider that also.
dwr
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
If I were you i would stick with CJ. If you can't afford a jump up the CJ ladder, then wait. Changing preamps in a lateral move is not gonna be good in the long run. Especially if you LIKE the sound now. So either go for another CJ that is a step up, or save and go for a great CJ preamp.
I have never owned CJ, but can say I like the CJ sound, and would have owned one if it turned out to be in my path.
shakeydeal
979 posts
 
You should listen to Elizabeth. She has been known to have multiple preamps daisy chained in a row. Now you know THAT is some good sound.....

Shakey
sufentanil's avatar
sufentanil
776 posts
 
Dwr, what is it that you don't like about your current system? I've never heard Geddes Abbey speakers before, but the rest of your system looks like it leans on the warmish side. Is that your listening preference?

If you don't truly have any deficiencies in your sound, but are looking to make changes for the sake of making changes, then my advice would be to simply keep it as is. But if you need, for instance, more transparency, then maybe moving to one of the ARC preamps or a solid-state preamp such as a Musical Fidelity A308cr, Classe CP-50, Innersound iPre, or a Bel Canto preamp. Obviously, this just scratches the surface in terms of options.

Michael
dwr OP
112 posts
 
Actually I like my sound now. I just wondered if one of the preamps I mentioned would be any improvement over my CJ. From the replies so far it doesn't sound like that is the case and I will keep the CJ in the mix. I am not looking for a lateral move and that sounds like what I asked would be. As for the speakers they are neither warm or bright they are one of the most neutral speakers you will ever hear, I am completely satisfied with them. Thank you guys for the responses I think you have answered my question.
rleff
1,065 posts
 
Maybe the Bellamax pre amp from response audio might be worth looking at;5000 new asking 1995;seems to address your areas of concern and might be worth checking out.
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