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VTL 5.5 VS CJ Premier 17

I have CJ electronics in my system comprising a PV-14 LS2 preamp and a 2500A power amp. I recently tried a VTL TL 5.5 preamp and thought it provided a lot more dynamics, more precise soundstage and air around the instruments. Although the highs of the VTL were a little more extended than my PV-14, I thought both had similar signatures with a sweet overall presentation.Which I like.

I haven't tried a Premier 17 ls or even a CT6 in my system and live away from CJ dealers. The VTL 5.5 has a lower MSRP than both upgrades I could make with CJ. Should I grab the VTL without looking back or should I go for a Premier 17 or CT6 and grab one without giving it a listen ?
andr
cytocycle
1,043 posts
 
If you are thinking of going with Vinyl, you can get a the VTL 5.5 with an execellent MM, or mid-high output MC phonostage which will save you the cost of a set of interconnects, powercable, and rack space. This can be added later by VTL I believe also. I enjoyed my VTL 5.5 when I owned it. I can't speak for the CJ premamps other than it was more transparent than my CJ premier 14 preamp.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
No experience with VTL, but if you're going CJ, I'd recommend the Premier 17LS2 WAY ahead of either the original 17LS or the CT6. The teflon caps in the 17LS2 seem to make a big difference. Mine slaughtered a CT6. Good luck, Dave
andr OP
109 posts
 
Cytocycle,

I'm glad you could answer my question. The Premier 14 is highly recommended to me by older buddies who live by the "old" CJ sound. I never heard one. Are you saying the VTL 5.5 would be of the same type of sonic signature with a little more focus ?

And Dopogue, I am in fact looking at the Premier 17 LS2 as an alternative but knowing it would be more expensive on the used market.I have to admit you have posted a lot on that unit and contaminated me with your conviction !
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