CT5 vs premier 16 LS2 vs premier 17 LS2

[smodtactical]

Still thinking of a CJ pre. I now heard a doge 8 and allnic l3000 v2. The doge 8 was nice, maybe a bit more open and detailed than my reference bottlehead moreplay. The Allnic was good but shockingly I think moreplay was better.

My buddy who loaned me the allnic and doge is talking down the CJ preamps saying they arent that good.. but I absolutely love the LP70S so I was thinking maybe CJ makes a hell of a preamp as well ? What do you think ? My eye keeps returning to the ET5. I just feel like CJ makes great gear with amazing parts. My only reservation is the use of so few tubes... I want to make sure I am getting at least some warmth and golden cj tone with the preamps.

[admin]

Many love the ET5. I would be surprised if you were disappointed. I don't think there is necessarily a direct correlation with "tube count and warmth of sound." I've heard many preamps/amps with few tubes that sounded very "tube like" and then others with lots of tubes and yet sounded close to SS.

[smodtactical]

Well said admin, thanks.

[Paul001]

Personally I prefer the premier 16-17, they have a more captivating sound and in line with the fame of the house. I would replace only electrolytic capacitors and enjoy the music

[roberto]

Hola Chicos,

The quality sound on both preamps are great and easy to tell if you do a comparison with other brands having similar retail price, and I will add, being CJ less expensive than the others.

The newer model, the ET'5 to my ears is more pure, more kind of organic sound, more precise. You are entitle to choose the one that your ears liked most. What I do like, not necessary must be your liking and vice versa. Let your ears decide. Trust what your ears are telling you. Both have the CJ signature sound quality! Also, Conrad Johnson sounds right!

Happy listening!