2. amps-preamps
  3. 191802-4635

Solid State Preamp to replace tube unit

I currently own a CJ tube preamp. Ive always owned tube preamps and I would like to get my first solid state preamp.I am fed up with buying expensive hard to find tubes that last 3 months or new production tubes with that not so great sound. I pine for consistency. I probably wont sell my CJ I'll just keep it. My power amps are NAD M23 for the summer and CJ Premiere 12's for the winter.

Since I dont dabble in the solid state world I am not sure what to get. I figure since this is my first SS unit 4-5k preowned??. Some brands I have considered CODA< Pass, AYRE, Classe, Bel Canto, Krell etc. Note: I have tried the Parasound and Benchmark but they didnt do it for me. I dont like anayltical sterile sound. If it is a touch warm/colored that is probably good as I am coming from a very warm CJ tube unit.

Must haves are a remote with balance control. Multiple outputs (XLR and RCA). I have an outboard phono pre. Thank you for reading and for your suggestions.

jimbones
rcprince
3,070 posts
 

Another vote for Ayre.  That's the solid state unit I'd consider if I decided to switch from tubes.

mattyc73
2 posts
 

I had a CJ preamp and amp for 20 years… moved to an AGD gallium nitride Tempo di Gan and Alto preamp…. Changing the Class D game… and so good I bought a second Tempo for a second system. Higher end models likely even better though I’ve not heard myself.

jwalsh31
20 posts
 

I would look for a used Luxman C900U.  

 

rubicon15
91 posts
 

If you really like the sound of the ET5, give Jeff a call at CJ. He may have a few suggestions etc. I own an ET3se and don’t have any problems with tube life. I’ve read about some people experiencing problems with tube life on the ET3 but I haven’t read anything negative regarding the ET5. I assume, you posted a similar question on the CJ owners forum. Another option to consider, trade in the ET5 and upgrade to the ET7. 

sns
3,205 posts
 

First off, no quality tubes, NOS or new should be getting noisy that often, either you're getting close to end of life tubes or pre running those tubes hard.

 

Last year I tried SS pre after decades with tubes, so purchased Pass XP-22 based on Pass rep of being tube lovers SS. While I tried to like, simply couldn't get past bit of dryness and the excessively precise sound staging. Scratched that itch off the list.

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