Conrad Johnson Owners.com

I would love to hear your thoughts regarding the 62se. I currently have a MV60se and plan on upgrading to the Classic 62se in the new year. I’ve really enjoyed my 60se but thought it was time to either upgrade the unit or trade up. I acquired an ET3se in mint condition a few years ago and plan on pa...

I agree. Any long term user with a documented history may reduce risks. Buyers definitely need to perform their due diligence. A good dealer is probably the safest option if you are buying new or used. TMR is a good example. I sincerely appreciate the advice.

I avoid eBay for all audio gear. I agree, not all sellers are equal. Agon and USaudiomart are usually my two, go two online sources for used equipment. TMR is an equally good source but their prices can be high. However, you do get some additional coverage. If the unit doesn’t work, they will accept...

Quick search on a Classic 62se - Demo unit with low hours $5600 and new $6250. Do you have any knowledge regarding pricing? What is a good price for a new unit or demo/open box? I'm not opposed to a used amp in exceptional condition. I will keep my eyes open for an opportunity worth consideration. I...

Admin, you made a few excellent points. I really need to take a peek under the hood and see if I have any bulging caps etc. I agree, even though I love the vintage MV60se, I may be better served by moving up to the 60se or 62se. If I were to purchase a 62se, do you believe my ET3se needs to be repla...

No component failure yet. The unit is just aging. I haven’t opened the hood to examine the caps etc. It still sounds and functions flawlessly. The upgrade is more of a proactive move to extend the life of the amp and to upgrade caps and resistors. What I gather from your feedback, I would be better ...

Just to clarify, I currently have the MV60se. No need to upgrade to a “se” version. I’m referring to the caps, resistors, etc. I’ll have to have a conversation with CJ regarding the differences between an upgraded MV60se and a Classic 60se or 62se. Obviously, if I purchase a used Classic 62se, I may...

Admin, thanks for the feedback. Like you, I’m more inclined to believe that I will experience sonic benefits of the upgrade. I’ve read about the downside of burning in teflon caps. However, if the total cost is far less than purchasing a new or used amp, this may be the best option. I enjoy the MV60...

I’ve owned my MV60se for over 15 years now. I purchased it used from a dealer that was closing his shop. It was and still is in mint condition. It’s hard to believe that the amp is that old. It still has that infamous CJ sound quality. I was on the lookout and found a mint condition ET3se that I pur...

Big Dog has an impressive system to say the least. Very well thought out based on knowledge, experience and just a few dollars… It must truly sound amazing! I sincerely appreciate his feedback and willingness to share feedback with a fellow “want to be” audiophile.

Unfortunately, in my case, most dead units probably had the transport fail. From what I’ve been able to read on a few different sites, the transport is the weakest link. It may be next to impossible to find a spare working transport. When is crashes, I don’t know if I will replace it with another CD...

Hard fix, definitely agree. However, I honestly don’t know if someone has upgraded the transport. I know a few people replaced the transport a number of years ago. Don’t know if it is still possible today. My player still works but I know at some point it may die a slow death. I try to limit its use...

I replaced the tubes with CJ supplied tubes. I can’t provide an honest opinion. However, I think there are only 2 tubes. I played it safe a just called CJ and ordered the tubes.

Just read your post regarding the CJ CD player. Do you know anyone that works on these players. Mine still works flawlessly but I’ve often thought about replacing the transport/laser. From what I’ve read, this is the part that tends to fail. Unfortunately, CJ stopped servicing the player - no parts ...

Has anyone used Nordost Heimdall 2 interconnects between their CJ amp/preamp and DAC? I’m also considering the purchase of a H2 power cable. Any feedback?

I will definitely let the group know how it impacted my system. I really need to blame and thank AJ. If it wasn’t for him, I would have never considered the Amber 3. I also need to thank Big Dog from down under. His candid feedback was very helpful. Once again, I sincerely appreciate everyone’s help.

AJ is correct! I broke down and pulled the trigger on the Amber 3. I traded in my Bryston preamp to lower the price a little. Just waiting on the DAC to arrive. Needless to say, I need to get off the upgrade train and listen to music for a while. Special thanks to everyone and Happy New Year!

AJ, thank you for the link! Well… the LampizatOr Amber 3 Tube DAC appears to be a viable option, perhaps better than I ever imagined. The reviews and build quality are very good. Having said this, unfortunately, I don’t know a thing about this brand. Is LampizatOr a respectable brand? I noticed, I w...

Made in China is not necessarily a deal breaker. I did end up purchasing a pair of B&W’s that are made in China. I would like to maximize my limited 5K budget in buying new or used. I believe, taking my time and purchasing a used DAC may be the best approach. However, I will keep all options ope...

I’m starting to research DAC/streamers and need a little help from the experts on the forum. I like the possibility of finding a DAC/streamer combination unit that performs well. However, as you can imagine, the DAC is the most important component. I don’t know if this is the best approach but it ap...