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Mcintosh C220 pre

I purchased a C220 yesterday to run my MC352 and have a question or two. How do you burn this unit in properly? Do I leave it on with a CD signal feeding it for a few days? Can I leave my power amp off? What can I expect in terms of sound when it is broken in? Will there be more detail, better imaging etc??? Also should I have some spare tubes around? If so, which tubes do you recommend that could add a bit of upper mid detail? (I have read the C220 can be a little lean in dealing with those frequencies)

I look forward to any opinions!!!
Thanks........
nuguy
12volt's avatar
12volt
27 posts
 
My C220 is has just about 50 hours on it and it keeps getting better. I am most amazed at the sound stage and the total disapperance of my speakers in the room. Even off access imaging remains to a large degree. I don't know what fairy dust they put in this unit but I like it! Don't get me wrong I have owned Audio Research, Cary, Audable Ill. and a myriad of other products and have never felt the love like the C220/275IV combo. Some may call these colored but I call them them musical. I broke mine in while while listening to my TV though my system. Before you know it you will have a 1,000 hours on it. This is a unit that you want to listen to and just enjoy.
nuguy OP
195 posts
 
Well, you people are right again. I am guessing I have around 50-60 hours on this unit and what a transformation. It openned up quite nicely with much more detail.

Thanks again!!!!!
realhifi
159 posts
 
Turn it on. Start listening to music. The next day, do the same thing. The next day, do it again. Presto! Broken in. Then, relax, enjoy a wonderful piece of equipment
that only a fortunate few in the whole worlds population are privliged to listen to and own. Congratulations.

PS. Your McIntosh dealer should be able to answer all your questions also........
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