Conrad Johnson Premier 18LS Rare on AG!

I don't see these come up often on Audiogon; and they say there's usually a reason for that. I've been trying a lot of C-J gear recently; amps from the MF-series...an ET-2 pre-amp, and I tried this Premier 18LS out.

It should come as no surprise, it is a STELLAR piece of gear. In my opinion, pre-amps are the thing Conrad Johnson does best. They're mostly known for their tube gear, but I've tried some solid-state pieces as well, and they certainly put the same care and thought...and quality parts, into them as well.

Ultimately, I'm keeping the ET-2 pre-amp, because I prefer the tube sound in my system; but it was a helluva fight...lol. The Premier 18LS has a lively sound; great soundstage, and layered presentation. It's got a bit of bite, but was NEVER etchy or fatiguing; a great Rock pre-amp.

And the one area it absolutely bested the ET-2, was low-level listening. When I was running it at very low volumes...just to run-in and warm-up before serious listening; I was constantly amazed at the dynamics it presented, at those low volumes (the ET-2, by comparison, needs to be goosed pretty good, to really come alive). So...if you like to listen at low volume, but don't want to sacrifice sound; this is one to consider.

This unit is in great shape. The guy who sold it to me might have listed 8/10...and I have no complaints. Really...just on condition; it might be a 9! But I'd rather under-promise and over-deliver...than the other way around; so I'll conservatively rate it 7/10...just for age...but look at my feedback and buy with confidence.

The unit will get to you in the same shape it leaves. I have the original box, packing...and a ziplock full of peanuts for the remote. Oh, by the way: I'll even include the upgraded remote. My ET-2 came with the "cheap" C-J remote; the one they include with the less-expensive McCormack gear. This is a Premier though; it comes with the heavy-duty, metal remote...made from the same Champagne-colored material as the famous C-J faceplate. I thought of keeping it for the ET-2, but I'll pass it along for the new buyer.

Tried taking pics tonight, but the light is no good. I've included a stock pic for now; pics of actual unit to follow (if it's around that long...lol). Buyer pays actual and reasonable s&h; please include 3% for PayPal. Won't last long; good luck!