conrad johnson preamps

Good question... i have a Classic 2 SE and it is the best sounding pre I've ever owned.   It "just sounds right"  as their slogan goes.   Sure, folks may complain about the high gain and the fact that is eats lesser quality tubes, but with my  40 watt  Quicksilver amps and a high quality 6922 tube it is hard to beat.  The tone and timbre is unlike any other pre I've ever owned.   It lifted the veil and delivered the most lifelike sound I've ever experienced in my home.  In fact i was on the fence whether to upgrade my speakers or pre..... my previous unit, a McCormack RLD 1 was no slouch but the Classic 2SE blew it away, no contest.  

People are quick to rip this pre for its lack of features and no remote but it is truly a great sounding component.....isnt that what's most important in a piece of equipment?   How it sounds...... it is for me

Oddiofyl I have a similar set-up to yours but a vintage upgraded PV9a with a pair of Quicksilver’s, just total enjoyment. It is only one of two systems I’ve had over the years (the other also consisted of a CJ PV5 many years back) where people, not just audiophiles, seem to really enjoy kicking back and listening to the music, just so natural and engaging on everything from classical to jazz to rock. Their products really reflect the beauty and meaning in music.CJ  just sounds right for sure.

+1tubegroover and oddify.  I still use a premier 14 with NOS Mullard tubes.  It is supremely musical however is plenty revealing to the recording.

Likely a combination of things. I used a pv10 A for a decade or more. Great little pre amp.
Recently upgraded to a Classic II.
Poster below hit it on the head. The classic's high gain output has necessitated ordering an attenuator. Recommended by CJ tech support.
I am using a Krell KST 100.
Attenuator will go just before amp. Trying the minimum 10 decibel model. Roughly fifty bucks at Needle Doctor.