Natural sound, dynamics

Lowish gain for low-output MC cartridges

Extremely well built, solid, rich, lively sound. Excellent dynamics and imaging, very natural-sounding. The Evo-20 doesn't have the typical CJ 'autumn glow', warmish sound but is very neutral. Low noise for its gain, but I use a low output MC and so it isn't completely silent in my system. It needs excellent cables and power to perform its best.
I tested the big CAT and VAC preamps while deciding, and this guy delivered the goods in a way that neither of those did.
My system: Mapleknoll turntable (80lb platter), Monster Genesis 2000 cartridge, CJ Evo-20 pre, VTL DeLuxe 120 amps, Klipsh LaScala speakers, Genesis subwoofer. Siltech and Audioquest interconnects, homemade speaker cables (bi-wired), VersaLab rollers and blocks, Lovan amp and equipment stands, etc. etc. etc.

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Tested VAC, CAT, etc.

Warm, transparent sound throughout the spectrum. Immense bass reproduction, warm character, does not "shout".

Very weak phono stage, bulky, perhaps a little slow on fast transients - in relation to pure solid state designs.

This is modified by CJ in SE model and was used as the reference preamp for many years by an Audiophile magazine. Could not fit in my rack, but had to buy anyway! Amps are custom made monoblocks, based on Nelson Pass design, 40W class A. Speakers are made by Greek manufacturer (Analysis - model Omega) panel designs with full ribbon. CD transport by HHB (CDR-850) and converter by DCS (professional DSD D/A). Nothing comes close to this preamp in terms of "natural feeling" of acoustic instruments. Probably the best next thing to the live performance! Clarity is no object either, and what strikes most of all is the BALANCE between, say, 1st and 2nd voice in a vocal duet. Must listen to fully appreciate (I did, for 1 month before I buy...) Can be a "tad" less responsive in ultra fast transients, but I can live with it, I think. No remote also, but who cares! Hands - down, the best preamp that I have heard. Had to go for it.

Similar Products Used:

Gas Thaedra, Audio Research, Motif and CJ various preamps, Naim Nac 32, Passive preamp by Ypsilon.