Tube Preamp Reviews

Description: Vacuum-tube dual-mono preamplifier. Inputs: phono (MC or MM), tuner, CD. Tape: 2 sets of inputs and 2 sets of outputs. Outputs: 2 sets, both phase-inverting, recommended for amplifiers with input impedance of 10k ohms or higher. Level control: 23-position stepped attenuators with front-panel LED level indicators. Tube complement: two 6CW4s and four 6GK5s per channel. Phono section: 40dB gain; overload in excess of 150mV at 1KHz; RIAA equalization ±0.25db (20Hz–20KHz); hum & noise 80dB below 10mV input. Line-level section: 29dB gain; 20V maximum output; bandpass, 2Hz to more than 100kHz; hum & noise 88dB below 2.5V output; distortion less than 0.25% THD or IMD at 1V output; output impedance less than 200 ohms.
Dimensions: audio chassis, 19" W by 7" H by 163/8" D; power supply, 19" W by 3.5" H by 16" D. Net weight: 60 lbs.
Price $8950 (1992); no longer available (2007). Approximate number of dealers: 75.
Manufacturer: Conrad-Johnson Design, Inc., 2733 Merrilee Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031. Tel: (703) 698-8561. Fax: (703) 560-5360. Web: www.conradjohnson.com.