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
breuninger
101 posts
 
I have been a big fan of CJ's Premier 10. Owned three, still use one in the HT set up. Affordable, huge soundstage, not too warm. Also check out the Motifs... best of both worlds.

Peter
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
if you can't listen, you take a big risk. you might as well flip a coin.

i have owned sveral cj preamps, but not the one's you are considering. i have heard the pv 10, as i auditioned it in my own system. i wouldn't own it.

if you can't listen, get a good deal and be prepared to resell the preamp.

i won't recommend one or the other, because only you can determine what you like.
rbwinterlink OP
72 posts
 
I want to thank each of you for responding to my request for information. Your kind suggestions are appreciated.

Bob
smoffatt
205 posts
 
Bob, i have owned the SP9 (Original) and the SP14 thereafter. I was happy with the sonic attributes of both but most particularly the SP9. Now i own ARC REF2 MKI and REF Phono along with Classic 120's, all modified by GNSC.
Look for a SP9 MKII or MKIII version here on the Gon. On rare occasions, one comes up modded by GNSC. That would be my choice if money is tight.

As for Colloms ratings, not sure what they all mean. One rated at 25 and another rated at 100, does it mean that the one rated at 100 is 75 times "better" than the one rated at 25. I did not know until now that those "ratings" even existed.
tonywinsc
583 posts
 
Just looked at AUDIOCRITIC's website. His ratings are interesting. Just looking at his preferences statistically- he seems to prefer SS over tube gear and has a bias for British equipment. Everyone develops a particular taste over the years and that seems to be his. Still, I would love to hear some of the setups that he seems to favor.
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