2. amps-preamps
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new CJ sound compared to old CJ sound

I am considering going back to a CJ linestage. Having owned the ART, the 16LS series 1 , and the premier 14 , I am familiar with the great dynamics, dimensionality, and that draw you in to the music quality those units had while in front of my old premier 8a amps. I was wondering if any of you have had any experience w/ the CT-5 or ACT2, and how the new CJ house sound may compare w/ the previous units I have owned. It would not be much of a surprise to hear the newer models are quieter, more dynamic, and have greater detail, but do they still retain all the qualities of the older units while doing so?
fjn04
downunder
1,329 posts
 
interestingly there are 3 ACT2's for sale on audiogon.

for me and my musical tastes I believe the new cj pre amps go just a liitle too far in the search for neutrality. that is a pity as I have always liked cj products and for the first time in almost 10 years I have none.
aball
2,016 posts
 
Interesting thread because I have been noticing the change too. I recently auditioned a ton of the latest CJ gear and compared to the older ones I have (and had), I find the new stuff does indeed head for greater neutrality and resolution. There seems to be less body to it now - and I find that a shame because 3D imaging suffers as a result. But like everything else, you have to match it to the right source and speakers - it is just a little tougher to get it right with the new gear.

Arthur
goone
136 posts
 
The new stuff from CJ is not musical, sweet and have that magic midrange that you are used to, I will keep my old cj preamp for sure. Great post
Post removed 
cmach
193 posts
 
I owned a CJ Premier 17LS for a couple of years before
replacing it with the CT-5. The 17LS had more of the
classic CJ sound. It was warm and forgiving. A bit
rolled off on the top and bottom but the midrange
was excellent. Although I liked the warm sound
of the the 17LS it does occasionally get in the way.

The CT-5 is much more resolving and has better
dynamics. I find I'm listening more to the music
and less to my pre-amp with the CT-5. It seems to
vanish into the music in a way that the 17LS simply
could not.

Cmach
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