2. amps-preamps
  3. 1239033287

Audio Research or Conrad Johnson Tube Pre-Amp???

I am looking at the purchase of an Audio Research SP-9 or SP-14 or Conrad Johnson PV-9a, PV-10, PV-11 or PV-12 pre-amplifier. It's very difficult since I've not been able to hear every one of these pre-amps. However, I do want a tube pre-amp to mate with my Threshold S/300 and Mirage
OM-9 speakers. Later I plan to purchase Magnapan 1.6 speakers. I will also be using an Elite Rock Turntable with Excalibur tone arm. I will also be using two professional tape decks for recording and playback.

I really need assistance regarding the following:

1. Which pre-amp will work well.
2. I also need to know which tubes are the best for a particular pre-amp?
3. how long do tubes last normally with 2 hours daily use?

Any other information you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much all.
4. Does turning on and off the tube pre-amp hurt it?
rbwinterlink
downunder
1,329 posts
 
Onemug

Are you going to upgrade the ART to series 3, or happy where you are at now?. me I am debating as the upgrade is a considerable sum and don't want to loose the magic.

I believe the ACT2 series 2 is a lot better than the original. Even Lew from cj told me they had made a mistake with the original ACT2 in it being too lean, hence the series2 so quickly after the original.

yes Collums review of the ACT2/CT5 being so far ahead of the ART certainly was puzzling. that is why, if possible always try to listen to a piece before comitting. replying on lists is very dangerous.

cheers
onemug
784 posts
 
Downunder,

I am happy where I am now BUT am thinking ahead about the series 3 upgrade. I know what you mean by "magic", hard to describe but you know it when you hear it. Would I lose any of it, who knows and it's a $12000 gamble. For now, the ACT 2.2 has its own magic so I can go with the mood.
downunder
1,329 posts
 
Onemug

The couple of folks I have spoken to have all said the upgrade truely is an upgrade with no downside, however as you said it is an expensive upgrade which you cannot go back.
I am like you at the moment and swap with my Mac pre amp if the mood feels like it.

cheers
br3098
994 posts
 
IMHO, you shouldn't try and pick audio components on other folks recommendations. Are we going to listen for you too? You need to use your own ears, and there is simply no substitute for that. If you chose something that is recommended to you on this forum, you will be choosing what someone else likes, with his/her other components, in his/her room. As you can see already, there is no universal concensus here. So make your own - go visit some local audio dealers and LISTEN! Doing it any other way is just a crap shoot.
rbwinterlink OP
72 posts
 
IMHO makes a good point. However, there are many of us who do not have the opportunity to listen various audio components. I fall into that catagory. So to all who have rendered honest opinions, THAN YOU MUCH! Believe me I do appreciate.
More to discover