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Conrad Johnson Premier 18LS pre-amp??. Need feedback from owner or former owners

I am looking at a Conrad Johnson Premier 18LS pre-amp. I was able to find one old review in Stereophile from 8 years ago  . I could not find others.  

My question: is this model an outstanding SS pre-amp as some testimonials claim ( see the Audioreview blog), even though issued in 2004( ?). I might be able to buy a used unit for $1100-$1200.  Therefore, I need feedback and comments about the pre-amp from owner or former owners, or anyone who knows this pre-amp.

Also,  how might it compared to the current Coda CP preamp which "might" be available  at the same price as the CJ 18LS.    Either pre-amp would be hooked to a BAT VK-200 amp which has both balanced and unbalanced connectors.  The CJ 18LS  has  all RCA's, and the Coda is a mix of RCA and XLR connectors.  

Despite the price, I am NOT sure the CJ 18LS would be a wise choice because of its age and lack of usable features (for me). However, it comes with a good remote  BTW,   a Rogue RP-1 is $1695 has several usable features I need. but I was not impressed by its sound. It also received mixed reviews   Thanks.!!!


   

sunnyjim
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
We all have our preferences, whether voice, or a particular piano, say Yamaha, Steinway... Alto Sax, Selmer Mark IV or another, Strad Violin versus other classics. 
Me, I've always loved the sound of CJ. For over thirty years now, I have appreciated the warm sound, the great imaging, and the overall smoothness of their gear, both Amps and Preamps.
For the price of $1100./$1200. I'm not sure you could go wrong.

Larry 
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 

To Larry, Thank you for the comment about the CJ pre-amp. Unfortunately, it was sold.

So, I am back to square one again.   No problem, I will just continue the search..

lrsky
1,118 posts
 
sunnyjim,
There are probably lots of CJ Pre Amps out there these days, and at a good price. Be patient. They're worth waiting for.
Good luck
Larry

jafant's avatar
jafant
19,745 posts
 
sunnyjim-

have you demo'ed the ET-3 (SE) or CT-5 pre-amps from CJ?
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 
Jafant, Did not audition either;  they are both out of my price range, even used, and neither has a phono stage.  There is an ET-3 on sale on AG for $2495, and a ET-3 SE  for $2995.  According to CJ, and a few reviews I have read, the SE version is much better because it has far superior parts.  Thanks
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