REVIEW: Channel Islands Audio PEQ 1 MKII + AC15 MkII PSU Phono Preamp

Model:	PEQ 1 MKII + AC15 MkII PSU
Category:	Phono Preamp
Suggested Retail Price:	$995 + $299
Description:	MM/MC phono stage + PSU
Manufacturer URL:	Channel Islands Audio
Model Picture:	View

Review by Jack G on January 19, 2018 at 12:10:52
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for the PEQ 1 MKII + AC15 MkII PSU

Since I had recently upgraded my TT and cart, I thought I would try something different for a phono stage. I've been using the EAR 834P for many years, possibly decades. It wasn't a great match for my cart, a Zephyr MKIII. I did a fair amount of research, and considered all of the usual suspects in this price range. Since CIAudio has a 30 day return policy, I thought I'd give it a try. It's small and inconspicuous looking. It's also built much better (sturdier) than the EAR. After about 200 hours break in with my secondary TT/cart, I gave it a serious listen. I was impressed. QUIET, QUIET, QUIET. The noise floor is clearly below that of my listening room. The next thing I noticed was Rock solid, 3D images in a deep wide soundstage. The bass is deep, tight, fast and musical. The treble is extended and smooth. the mids are a bit recessed compared to the EAR. Tonally it's a bit cooler than the EAR, but overall, probably more neutral.
The CI is WAY more transparent. I can definitely hear into the music more.
The CI doesn't get a lot of attention, but if you are looking in this price range, and don't want overly warm sound, this is worth a shot, especially with the optional PSU.

Product Weakness:	Not warm and snuggley sounding.
Product Strengths:	Quiet, transparent and musical. It has great imaging and soundstage, with unexpectedly musical bass. Reasonably priced and built like a tank. 30 day return policy Flexible enough for almost any cartridge.

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: Pass Labs INT-60
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): None
Sources (CDP/Turntable): VPI Prime/ soundsmith Zyhephyr III
Speakers: ML Montis
Cables/Interconnects: Analysis Plus oval 8/solo crystal
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Too many to list
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner

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Topic - REVIEW: Channel Islands Audio PEQ 1 MKII + AC15 MkII PSU Phono Preamp - Jack G 12:10:51 01/19/18 (0)

Amplifier:	Pass Labs INT-60
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	VPI Prime/ soundsmith Zyhephyr III
Speakers:	ML Montis
Cables/Interconnects:	Analysis Plus oval 8/solo crystal
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Too many to list
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

REVIEW: Channel Islands Audio PEQ 1 MKII + AC15 MkII PSU Phono Preamp

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