2. amps-preamps
  3. 1081731448

Best Kept Secret in Audio??

I heard a piece of equipment the other day that has me wondering - did I hear what I think I heard?

I did not have hours and hours, but I listened to a system I had heard before, and there was a new pre-amp in it - a McIntosh C200. I had not heard of this in "audiophile circles" as a world class unit.

But what I heard that nite has me wondering if it should be? And if it is, it may be one of the best bargains to boot selling in the $6K range I think including a phono stage.

Does anyone have any experience with this unit, and does it compete with the "usual suspects" when one thinks of top-notch pre-amps?

Thanks!!
ez2hear
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
Your experience with McIntosh is not unique. I own the McIntosh 2102 (tube) amp and it beats out just about anything else, even at a much higher cost.

there are McIntosh products that can't compete but those that can, win.
avguygeorge
2,300 posts
 
SShh !!(or it ain't a secret) --- For us working stiffs, it's hard to have heard 1% of what's out there.
kkursula
95 posts
 
Yes and No. Mac does offer phono stage, but mediocre at best. For the price, used of 3500 is worth the shot, only with assertive front end. Little vailed in comparison with Lamm or even Sugden Masterclass at half a price.
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