2. amps-preamps
  3. 1426620431

Getting the Upgrade Bug Again

I just listened to some CJ gear this weekend. It was the ET3 SE pre-amp coupled with the Classic 60 SE amp. Not that I am unhappy with my current integrated amp, but clearly this is a step upwards.

I want to stay with tubes and would prefer to purchase new gear. So is there anything else I should listen to that is in the same price range of the CJ gear, which is $9,500.
Ag insider logo xs@2xgreginnh
xti16
1,525 posts
 
Which tubes do you have in the Primaluna now? Have you considered swapping them with something else?

But if looking for something new check out the Octave V70SE/V80/V110. Make sure to add a black box or super black box. The latter would be better with your speakers. It really lowers the noise floor and increases headroom.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
greginnh OP
382 posts
 
Zd542 - The PrimaLuna has plenty of power for my speakers. I don't think I would need more power.

Xti16 - Stock tubes right now with about 150 hours on them. Swapping tubes is an excellent suggestion.

Thanks!
gpgr4blu
1,096 posts
 
Agree with Brauser. Different manufacturers have different sounding gear. There's Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, VTL, Lamm, VAC, CAT, McIntosh, Rogue, Cary, Rogers-- and those are just some of the more popular American companies I can think of off the top of my head. They are all have differing philosophies of how tubes should sound and none of them are bad, even to the discerning ear.
czarivey
5,946 posts
 
I too agree with Brauser, however, equipment listened at the show may sound totally different in YOUR room.
xti16
1,525 posts
 
Greginnh - What are your stock tubes? El34's - 6550's - KT88's or Kt120's? Is there a brand name? I can really change up the sound of my Octave by putting in different brands and types.
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