2. amps-preamps
  3. 130806-1935

Tube Preamp Recommendations please to partner with Parasound JC-1's....

I would appreciate recommendations from the Audiogon community for a tube preamp with balanced outputs to use with a pair of Parasound JC-1 's.   Having a good built-in MC phono stage is a real plus. 
Looking for something used at less tha $5k. 

Considering a McIntosh C2300.....is there anything else I should consider?
Currently using an Audio Aero Prestige CD with built-in pre amp.  The goal is to improve musicality and add a bit of warmth (better mid-bass).  Speakers are Piega P-10's. 

Recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.  
128x128gerryn
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
At your price range it's hard to beat the Mcintosh C2300.  I recently purchased an NOS Mcintosh C2500 on this site and could not be happier.   
gerryn's avatar
gerryn OP
143 posts
 
Thanks again to all.  Atmosphere, six and vegasears. Much appreciated.

Vegasears: Would you please tell me what amp(s) you are using? 
I read a recent review on the Steve Hoffman site and the user said that he bought a C2500 and was very pleased... Unlike the C2300, the C2500 has the ability to change the input names too as they are not affixed like with the C2300. 
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
I use VTL 450MKII tubed mono blocks. There are a few of us who purchased NOS close-out C2500's lurking about. I would have been happy with the C2300.  My understanding is, with the C2500 Mc added a DAC to the package and a few other control features but sound wise the C2500 is pretty much the same as the C2300. So picking the C2500 came down to paying a little more for new and the three year warranty. 

Good Luck.
ap_wannabe
16 posts
 
I just purchased a pair of JC-1 and also would like to run a tube preamp.  I have not seen anyone mention Conrad Johnson.  I am thinking of picking up a CT-5.  Any opinions on the match?
gerryn's avatar
gerryn OP
143 posts
 
ap_wannabe: I wish I could help, but I continue to use the preamp (with tube output stage) in my Audio Aero Prestige CD/SACD/DAC player with my Parasound JC-1’s. I’ve tried the Mac C2500, but preferred the preamp in my Audio Aero. I hope you enjoy the JC-1’s. They have been great performers for me for a number of years and at their price point, they are terrific.
More to discover