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I already have the Conrad Johnson Classic 2SE and I do like it a lot. I'm not trying to actually "upgrade". I only want to add remote control and maybe pep up the looks of the setup. I'm assuming the actualy linestage circuit designs are the same. Just the addition of a remote and digital front dial.The price is $4500 so it's an expensive addition just to add some looks and a remote.
Or should I just go with the Placette option??
Edits: 10/29/16Follow Ups:
A CJ pre-amp mates nicely w/ Pass Labs.
I owned the ET-3 pre and found it incredibly amusical and sterile. I have to think the SE version might be even moreso. I am a big fan of the older cj house sound, though, but a bit more treble extension wouldnt hurt. But i think some equipment like the ET-3 just shifts tonal balance away from the critical lower midrange and into the treble region, whicb impresses at first but ultimately is tough to enjoy and experience as a proxy for live music.
I just think the ET-3 follows the "neutrality" paradigm and I did not like it. I think others are suggesting some interesting alternatives but it is important that you identify you own sonic preferences, otherwise someone else's "great preamp"... You may really not like.
Stu
Thanks! for sharing- Stu.
I prefer a tubed pre-amp w/ a SS power amp, for balance.
An update- airtime?
I sold my ET3se . Didn't like the high gain - lowest volume still too much sometimes . Had to go through several tubes before finding one that lasted. Very nice sound upgrade though after a Bryston BP26 solid state.
The Bryston BP-26 is a very fine pre-amp.
Since CJ can't seem to understand that ALL modern preamps should have a remote control option, I suggest they bundle one of these modern gadgets to go with their modern preamps.
Hey you did that one already!!!
I'm going to get the Placette and yes you were right the first time. Only at that time I was on a limited budget. Funny how that changed.
I checked out that Aurilic streamer. I'll look into the bit rates and all that stuff I don't understand.
The only areas of improvement MAY be my source. But it seems the Marantz NA7004 is the best DAC / streamer in the market at this time.
I'm also looking into better cables, a proper sub and some new tubes.
Getting more amps and preamps is basically a waste of time and money. Ugg I can't believe I even typed that. But I am fixed for amps.
COme to think of it, I believe I did use that pic in the past to go along with a snide remote control comment. ;-)
If you get that Auralic it will double as a volume control with remote.
The Placette is very good in some setups and not so great in others. That's not to say the Placette is bad. I had one and it is very transparent and versatile but component matching will play a big part in how a passive sounds in your system. Good luck!
It's only being used as a volume controller between source and preamp. But I may hold off until I read more on that streamer.Thanks
Edits: 11/06/16
Placette will leave you over 3k for software...plus, it's remote for whatever you change to in the future.
That's the plan.
Cables, subwoofer and software
I really do have the setups I like. Maybe some tubes too
I rarely adjust the volume control! YMMV!
Our stereos do not add any distortion to your music, and they do not take any away! Old Sony Ad.
I use a network streamer and listen to only 3 stations. However the volume levels on all three are VERY different.
It's jolting when you are listening to soothing classical music, change the station and BAMB! Triple the volume.
I need a stick with a volume knob attached to it.
nt
Our stereos do not add any distortion to your music, and they do not take any away! Old Sony Ad.
Compression is the enemy.
I have a feeling the compression stations are the loud ones??? It seems to louder they get the less musical they sound.
Yes, most sound like shit in 2016...?
What sources do you use?
I prefer listening to streaming radio because I enjoy classical stations all over the world. What software and sources should I be looking into?
Nt.
I have been using tube preamps and am thinking of getting a good solid state preamp and getting off the merry go round too.
I have had many preamps, both tube and solid state, ARCs, CJs, First Sound, Audio Note, etc, etc. I had never tried a Mac because I just could not get past the look.
Well maybe I am just getting tired and old, but I finally gave it a try when Best Buy started carrying Macs.
The sound is just so open and natural, from top to bottom very well balanced. It has just what I need in a preamp, and then some.
Like the built-in dac, which i never use to want in a preamp, but now sounds so good that its the only dac I need. I think it blows away the dac in the Oppo 105.
Its just a great sounding, well built, reliable brand that never gets old.
AB.
anyone using an ACT/ ACT2 or ART-Series CJ pre-amp?
Thanks you for the comments. I look forward to auditioning the preamp.
Keep us posted- ydavid.
Heck, I just finalized the deal on a SF Line 3. It matches my Power Threes and it's an awesome pre. But that hockey puck remote was the clincher.
Very nice- Frank.
Thanks! for sharing- AB
Ok I got the point.
I'm going to get a Placette and move on with making the mistake of not getting the remote in the first place.
I went mad there for a while having too much fun money but now I'm better. Looking at things more rationally now I don't really need much of anything. Just a few cables and a sub.
.
Which brand(s) of Cabling?
I have NO idea about cables???? A subject I have to read up on.
Absolutely! and get out there to the dealers/retailers and listen, listen, listen, to the Cabling. This is my fave facet of our wonderful hobby. Any queries for me? I am happy to assist.
aa
"Once this was all Black Plasma and Imagination" -Michael McClure
How's about a nice numbered print?
Additionally,
I must report that the best CJ pre-amp that I have ever auditioned was the ACT2 Series2. Not withstanding, I would love any chance to demo a CJ ART3 for good measure.
get off your #ss and adust the volume. The exercise will do you good. Spend the cash on softwear
Call C-J and ask if they can add remote capability to your present amp and, if so, what would it cost. They're friendly people.
Didn't we (the Asylum) have a CJ Classic 2SE discussion several months ago where I commented that any modern day preamp should come standard with a remote. ;-)It could be the best sounding preamp in the world but it will go ignored by me and several others who feel the same way about remotes and modern preamps.
[edit]: Additionally, who in their right mind would seek out a modern car without power brakes, power steering, or power windows? These are features that are EXPECTED. Same for preamps and REMOTES.
Edits: 10/31/16
Well honestly I don't see the point of having a remote except maybe if you're constantly fidling with the volume... I set the volume at a certain point for a given listening session, depending on the context (critical listening, loud music for cleaning the house, background music when guests are over) then it stays so until the context changes. To each his own, but for me the less electronic gimmicks on a preamp, the better!
Hell, I wouldn't own a vehicle (a truck in my case) without power heated seats, power heated mirrors, cruise, a/c, tilt, air suspension, leather, Sirius, and Bluetooth.
Meat; It's the right thing to do. Romans 14:2
The remote alone is worth $4500 in energy saved (calories saved = less food eaten) running back and forth to change the volume, so you would be getting the cosmetic upgrade for free. Free is good! Besides your total cash outlay would only be $4500 - sale price of 2SE. I do not know how anyone can listen to music without a remote, GO FOR IT.
I can and I do jump up to change the volume. The calories burned are, at least for me, a benefit. Obviously your mileage DOES vary 😉
I don't use a remote in my main system. But you're right, when i get lazy, I switch to computer audio and use the Apple TV remote.
Besides the remote it will sound better, my guess would be a little more detail and blacker backgrounds.
If that lump of cash is bothering you, I would be happy to help you spend it. Things for you and sure, things for me.
Hello airtime,
while I have not heard the 2SE Classic, I have auditioned the ET-3SE and it is very fine. This pre-amp can be had for a great price via Spearit Sound
in MA. Ask for Jack Tozzi and he will work with you on a value.
Again I already have the 2SE and it is a wonderful preamp. And again the ONLY reason I'm considering changing is PURELY cosmetic and for that damn remote. Otherwise I'm happy with everything I have. I was given a lump of cash to play with (a nice lump!!!) and I don't even want to buy anymore gear. So I guess I really have arrived.
Just trying to finish off the details like looks and cables.
Well, now cabling is certainly the most important factor, IMO.
Get cabling right and you will be rewarded.
I'm not sure why you are asking other people what to do when your problem is a value judgement that only you can resolve. You've already stated that you believe there will be no sonic improvement, only a cosmetic improvement and a functional improvement. Why would other peoples' opinions affect the monetary value you place on the cosmetic and functional changes? If I told you that personally I could never live without remote control for volume, does that mean you will now all of a sudden consider this function to be worth $4500? If so, then please buy the Conrad Johnson ET3se because I am telling you the truth; I would never own a preamp that did not have remote control of at least the volume function.
Good luck,
John Elison
He's trying to justify it in his mind and looking for reinforcement.
I don't think he has convinced himself yet but he will.
Large glossy photos in catalogs help to reinforce purchasing decisions. I suggest he stare at photos of the CJ ET3SE. ;-)
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