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This is an ambitious ask, not a bargain. At US$4,499, it sits above the supplied 75th-percentile comparable price of US$4,059 and well over the US$2,013 median. It may be defensible for an exceptional, fully documented example, but the listing needs to justify the premium clearly.
The MET-1 is a genuinely distinctive six-channel tube preamplifier, built for high-end analog multichannel systems and equipped with flexible six-channel and stereo inputs, an effective ambience-retrieval mode, and a full-function remote. Its rarity and unusual capabilities are real attractions, especially for SACD/DVD-A or vintage surround enthusiasts. Before paying the premium, verify quiet operation across all channels, tube condition, remote functionality, and complete accessories; otherwise, a lower offer is sensible.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Conrad-Johnson emerged in the mid-1970s from the dissatisfaction of two American economists and audiophiles, Dr. William Conrad and Dr. Lewis Johnson, with the inconsistent performance of contemporary amplifiers. Founded in the United States, the company launched its inaugural product, the all-vacuum-tube PV-1 preamplifier, in 1977, quickly earning critical acclaim and establishing a benchmark for musicality. This debut propelled Conrad-Johnson into the forefront of the tube renaissance, with the iconic MV75 power amplifier following in 1978, solidifying its heritage as a pioneer in high-end audio craftsmanship.
The brand specializes in vacuum-tube preamplifiers and power amplifiers, renowned for their warm, engaging sound that prioritizes musical satisfaction over sterile measurements. While tube designs remain its cornerstone, Conrad-Johnson expanded into solid-state amplifiers and phonostages in the 1980s, alongside limited ventures like the Sonographe turntable line and electronics acquired in the late 1980s. All components are hand-built in the USA using simple circuits and premium custom parts, reflecting over four decades of refined design philosophy.
Conrad-Johnson holds an exalted position in the high-end market as an American classic, beloved by audiophiles for gear that "just sounds right." Its products command lust among enthusiasts worldwide, blending vintage appeal with sustained relevance, and consistently rank among the most musically rewarding options available.
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