inna, I've owned a JE LA-150 with the phono stage for several years. Most of that time it drove Parasound JC-1 monoblocs. I never had issues with noise, even with low output cartridges. I heard several JE amps over the years and always enjoyed their rich, musical presentation with the right speakers. Most OTLs don't match well with low impendance models. My speakers dropped to around 3 ohms at two different frequencies so the JE amps didn't work for me. Also I live in SoCal without AC so heat was a concern.
I would also agree that Jud's retirement should not be an issue. Rich at Signature Sounds is friends with Jud and has been a dealer for many years. He continues to service and sell Joule Electra (used) products so prospective buyers and owners can have confidence.
I would also agree that Jud's retirement should not be an issue. Rich at Signature Sounds is friends with Jud and has been a dealer for many years. He continues to service and sell Joule Electra (used) products so prospective buyers and owners can have confidence.