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New and rare opportunity to purchase this stunning pre-amplifier. Stock images so as not to open sealed box!
Is £19,995 a steal for a Conrad-Johnson ART 88, or are you overpaying? Ambitious pricing here—way above the £886-£9,914 range (median £3,672) from recent comparable UK used listings. These vintage tube amps in good shape rarely exceed £10k on the secondhand market, even for sought-after models like this; at nearly 5x the 75th percentile, it's a hard pass unless pristine provenance justifies it.
Before biting, verify tube life and matching—ART 88s chew through KT88s and can sag if not recently recapped (check for hum or channel imbalance). Insist on full service history, original manuals, and remote if applicable; test for microphonics under load to avoid a £2k+ repair bill.
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.
See all Conrad-Johnson listings on RADAR.
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