CJ LP70S vs LP66S vs ARC VS60/VS115 ? ...

[joeinid]

Hi,

I've noticed equivalent wattage CJ's tend to be a little more expensive than Audio Research. Puma Cat or anyone, how would you describe the sound differences between these giants. I've been looking at spearitsound's website and remember how nice the CJ's sounded even before I knew anything.

Thanks!

[Puma Cat]

Hi,

I've noticed equivalent wattage CJ's tend to be a little more expensive than Audio Research. Puma Cat or anyone, how would you describe the sound differences between these giants. I've been looking at spearitsound's website and remember how nice the CJ's sounded even before I knew anything.

Thanks!

Hmmm...I haven't done any comparison pricing lately, but that wasn't my impression; I had the impression the Ref series of ARC gear was more expensive than equivalent C-J. Certainly the limited edition C-J stuff like the ART preamps and amps, and GAT preamps are expensive, but the GAT is $5,000 less than the 40th Anniversary ARC preamp. I don't buy any C-J gear new, though, I buy really, really clean used stuff for considerably less than the new retail price. My CT-5 and LP70S would retail for $16,000 new, and I paid $6800 for both.

Sound differences, ARC has alway been on the cooler side of neutral, and C-J on the warmer side of neutral. C-J gear used to notable for it's warmth and richness, but the current C-J is more neutral than it ever has been, though I would say that it's still on the very slightly warm side of neutral. My CT-5 preamp is more neutral than the Premier 17, and the LP70S is more neutral than my Premier 11A was.

I haven't heard the LP66S, my I've read that it's pretty warm and rich-sounding, so my guess is it is not as neutral as the LP70S. I can't speak for the ARC gear as it's been so long since i've heard it.

The other company who makes tube amps that I really like is Octave, and if weren't such a C-J guy, I would very likely be listening to Octave.

[joeinid]

Hi Puma Cat,

I really appreciate you taking the time to pen those comments. Thank you. I guess when I was looking at prices, I only focused on some of the lower end stuff. There is so much gear out there I need to listen to some of it.

Joe

[ronenash]

The LP70 was part CJ's premium line using teflon capacitors and the best components available. The LP66s is their "entry" level amp and their cheapest amp sold today. If I remember correctly the LP70 cost twice as much when it was available. Sonicly the LP70 should be much more refined (better detail, better imaging, etc.).

With that said the LP66s is still a great amp and one that will give great pleasure. I love CJ gear and still think they are consistently very musical and enjoyable to listen to across the range.

[Coppy]

I have a GAT and the LP140 monos and can attest to the build quality of all CJ equipment. I think you'll find the parts quality in C-J far superior. As a mid ground product to consider, I believe they have just upgraded the 66's with some Teflon caps and better power supply capacity. Have fun!

[JWJW]

C-Rad LP66 vs. Mc MC275V.....any thoughts?

[Tonepub]

Though I've been a CJ guy for years, the new ARC REF stuff gets my vote. The new REF 150 is incredible. These days the parts quality in the ARC stuff is on the save level as CJ as well.