🔥Vintage Conrad Johnson PV2 Stereo Tube Preamplifier Pro Restored!!!🔥

Conrad-Johnson PV2 Stereo Preamplifier

Fresh out of our boutique preamp shop we have a gorgeous Conrad Johnson PV2 preamp!

The Conrad-Johnson PV2 is renowned for its warm, lush sound, and this unit has been meticulously customized and upgraded while preserving its original design.

Restoration Details:

1.  All electrolytic capacitors have been replaced with premium-grade Nichicon and Panasonic power supply capacitors, upgraded for voltage and temperature rating.

2.  All film audio path capacitors have been upgraded to Sonicap and Relcap Boutique capacitors.

3.  High-voltage supply rectifiers have been upgraded with higher-rated, fast-recovery diodes. The filament supply bridge has been upgraded, and a custom aluminum heatsink with thermal paste has been added to improve heat dissipation and component longevity.

4.  All high-wattage resistors have been replaced with higher-voltage, higher-wattage precision metal film resistors. They have been mounted with plastic spacers to increase air circulation and prolong component life.

5.  All Zener diodes have been replaced with upgraded low-noise precision components. They have been installed with plastic spacers to increase air circulation and prolong component life.

6.  The original filament regulator has been removed, cleaned, and tested; new thermal paste has been applied.

7.  A custom input/output RCA plate, constructed from 1/4" nylon and fitted with gold-plated Neutrik RCAs, replaces the original worn components. All connections to the main board utilize 20-gauge solid-core "Ultra Pure Ohno Continuous Cast" copper wire.

8.  The original power cord has been replaced with an AC inlet featuring a built-in fuse holder, simplifying and improving fuse replacement safety.  The fuse amperage and voltage rating remain original.  The new AC inlet retains the original grounding scheme, preventing ground loops, and accepts three-prong power cables for compatibility with high-end power cables. A new power cord is included.

9.  The original chassis phono grounding post has been upgraded to a five-way binding post, accepting bare wire, spade connectors, and banana plugs.

10. Safety capacitors in the power switch and switched outlets have been replaced with high-quality Vishay safety capacitors.

11. The original Alps volume potentiometer has been replaced with a new Alps Blue Velvet potentiometer using our custom breakout PCB. This upgrade offers improved tracking and performance compared to the original Alps Black Beauty potentiometer.

12. The original carbon balance potentiometer has been replaced with a new Bourns potentiometer. This improved component offers enhanced performance and includes a center detent for precise channel balancing.

13. The input selector, stereo selection switch, and tape switch have been meticulously cleaned and restored to like-new condition, utilizing DeoxIT Gold for lasting protection.

14. The obsolete muting circuit Omron relay, a known source of failure in these units, has been replaced with our custom-designed PCB incorporating a new Omron relay. This modification preserves original functionality and circuit design. All associated muting circuit components like resistors, and  diode have been replaced with new improved components.

15. All worn tubes were removed and a premium set of new production tubes, selected for optimal preamplifier characteristics (balance, gain, noise), has been installed.  Tube selection was performed by testing with a vintage AVO VCM163 and a modern Amplitrex AT1000 tube tester—leading tube testers in the field.  The tube complement includes:

2x 5751 Tung Sol

3x 12AT7 Genalex Gold Lion Gold Pin

1x 12AX7 Genalex Gold Lion Gold Pin.

16. All non-audio path film capacitors have been upgraded to higher-voltage Vishay film capacitors.

17. Preamplifier Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) analysis, performed using a 1kHz continuous sine wave generated and analyzed by a state-of-the-art, ultra-low-noise audio analyzer, yielded results of approximately 0.0005% per channel at 2.5 volts. This surpasses the factory specification of 0.05% for a new unit, a remarkable achievement for a 1980s preamplifier. (See second image.)

18. The faceplate and knobs were cleaned, disinfected, hand-polished, and reinstalled.  Light chassis dust was removed using a compressor and brush.

19. The top cover and bottom cover were sandblasted and powder-coated in satin black.  (Please note: Due to the powder-coating process, minor imperfections in the metal may be more visible under certain lighting conditions.  However, the overall appearance remains excellent.) All cover mounting hardware has been replaced with stainless steel screws.

20. All solder points were inspected and reflowed as needed using high-quality Kester solder (non-audio paths) and Cardas audio solder (audio paths), with professional Hakko soldering equipment. This ensured flawless solder joints without lifted traces or board damage.

21. All functions were rigorously tested under load for 24 hours and subsequently re-checked.

22. The phono section underwent extensive testing with a turntable over several hours.

23. Calibration and measurements were conducted using a suite of professional-grade instruments, including calibrated Fluke, Agilent, Audio Precision, and Sound Technology measurement instruments, Tektronix oscilloscopes, and ultra-low-noise, high-accuracy audio analyzers.

24. All 6 original tube-worn and tarnished tube sockets have been replaced and upgraded to audiophile-grade gold-plated 9-pin sockets. These new sockets not only feature improved contact with tube pins but are also gold-plated for protection against corrosion and improved conductivity.

25. All regular diodes and transistors have been replaced with improved modern parts. Custom heatsink with thermal paste applied has been added to high voltage regulator to extend component life.

26. Power LED has been replaced with a new, long-life one.

27. Old power switch has been replaced with a new, old stock, original part replacement.

Final Notes:

Following rigorous laboratory stress testing, each device undergoes a seven-day audition in our listening room under real-world conditions.  It is connected to various sources and amplifiers, encompassing both solid-state and tube types.  A device is deemed comprehensively restored only when its performance matches its exceptional sound quality.

This preamplifier represents one of Conrad-Johnson's finest creations and a pinnacle of 1980s tube preamplifier design.  From the initial planning stages to the final restoration, we have meticulously ensured this restoration upholds the PV2 badge and legacy.  This unit is a prized possession and will serve as a centerpiece in its new owner's collection.

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About Solid State Audio

Solid State Audio is a New Orleans-based business founded on a lifelong passion for vintage hi-fi audio. Our mission is the restoration and preservation of exceptional audio equipment.

As passionate audiophiles and music lovers, we understand the transformative experience of listening to music with a vintage hi-fi system.

Unlike other vendors, Solid State Audio exclusively specializes in the sales and restoration of vintage hi-fi equipment.  Our expertise, experience, and advanced testing equipment ensure superior results.

Our extensive restoration experience is complemented by a comprehensive collection of audio test equipment from industry leaders such as Sound Technology, Audio Precision, Tektronix, Keysight, and Panasonic.  Furthermore, our workshop, equipped with a CNC machine, allows for custom part design and printed circuit board fabrication to facilitate repairs and upgrades.

Since our inception, we have prioritized comprehensive restorations alongside exceptional customer service and communication.  Please contact us with any questions regarding our restoration process or available equipment.

Visit solidstateaudio.com for all your vintage hi-fi needs.

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Terms and Conditions PLEASE READ IMPORTANT:

Please note that, despite the use of new parts and meticulous repair/restoration procedures, the possibility of future component failure exists with all electronic devices, regardless of age.  Therefore, all devices sold by Solid State Audio are sold "as is," and all sales are final.  Our feedback reflects our commitment to quality, and all amplifiers are professionally packaged and shipped via FedEx with signature confirmation.

Thank you for your interest. All sales are final. Please review the complete listing for details of included items.

Reference and demonstration equipment is excluded from the sale; it is not included in the listing.  Please direct all inquiries prior to purchase. Continental U.S. shipping is complimentary; however, international shipping is unavailable at this time.