C-J confusion.

The ART3 is absolutely the best and most expensive cj pre amp. 25k v 16k.

Buy a s/h ART 1 or 2 if you can find one - they sound superb and much better than the ACT2.

I read that the original ART had tube rush issues.

I personally like the ACT 2 a lot although I haven't heard an ART I or II. Plus, ACT 2 only has four tubes to maintain vs. 10 on the ART series. There are quite a few ACT 2 used at good price in Audiogon.

Tabl10's

You read wrong, I bought a s/h cj ART about 6 weeks ago and there is no tube rush whatsoever.

Audiolui

I have used the ACT2 and CT5 and the prem16 was more musical and connected you closer to the music.
The ACT2/CT5 does most of the hifi things well, nice tight bass and extended treble, however I just could not connect with it emotionally.

The ART is sublime :-)