ART88

About the ART88

The Conrad-Johnson ART88 Triode Preamplifier is a dual-monaural design where each channel has its own dedicated audio circuit powered by independent DC power supplies with discrete voltage regulators, sharing only the power transformer and chassis. It uses two high-transconductance twin triode vacuum tubes per channel (PCC88), with a composite triode gain stage and a high-current buffer stage to provide low output impedance compatible with various cables and amplifiers. The unit features microprocessor-controlled relays for input selection and level adjustment in 100 steps (~0.7 dB each), all controllable via a wireless remote. The ART88 is built with premium components such as CJD Teflon capacitors, Vishay metal film resistors, and rhodium-plated silver connectors, housed in a thick aluminum chassis to minimize microphonic effects. It offers a gain of 25 dB, maximum output of 10 Vrms, output impedance of 190 ohms, distortion less than 0.25% THD at 1.0 V, and a frequency response from 2 Hz to over 100 kHz. Only 250 units were produced, making it a limited edition collector's item.