Conrad Johnson Premier One Power Amplifier

Updated August 7, 2026

Conrad-Johnson Premier One Stereo Power Amplifier in overall very good cosmetic condition, as shown. Rated at 200 watts per channel, the Premier One was one of Conrad-Johnson's first true state-of-the-art, high-power tube amplifiers. Introduced in 1979, it quickly earned a reputation among audiophiles for its effortless dynamics, tremendous authority, and what many reviewers described as a "T-Rex" scale of sound. Equipped with twelve 6550 output tubes, this amplifier delivers the classic tube sound that enthusiasts appreciate, while also generating a fair amount of heat. The amplifier has recently been re-tubed and professionally re-biased, and it performed very well during our in-house testing. We auditioned it using our McIntosh XR5 loudspeakers, where it delivered clean, full-bodied sound with plenty of power. NOTE: This amplifier has an aftermarket modification mounted to the rear of the top tube cage. We were told that this modification was installed by Sonic Frontiers and is intended to simplify the tube bias adjustment process compared to the procedure outlined in the owner's manual (see link above). The modification consists of a rotary selector switch with detents, each corresponding to one of the output tubes. A voltmeter is connected to the attached yellow alligator clip to measure the bias voltage, and the selected tube is then adjusted accordingly. Once the tube associated with each switch position has been identified, future bias adjustments become much quicker and easier—or so we were told by the independent audio technician who recently re-biased the amplifier. The rotary switch is connected by a ribbon cable to the underside of the amplifier, where it interfaces with each individual 6550 output tube. We have also been told that this modification can be removed if a future owner wishes to return the amplifier to its original configuration. SN 5101108 SHIPPING NOTE: This amp will only be shipped via freight. Please contact the auction company for a shipping quote. Local pickup is recommended and we will hold this amp for you for a reasonable amount of time, if required. Shipping cost estimates via freight with $5,000 insurance, which will vary depending on final bid price. Includes crating: West coast: $800-$1,000 East coast: $600-$800 Midwest: $500-$600 Tubes will be removed (and marked as to location) if shipping is required. 19x11x22, 135 lbs FR1/5

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