2. amps-preamps
  3. 1118145518

Mac 402 & Audio Research LS25MKl ?

I just bought the AR this last week. I like it, it is giving me so much more then I have had in the past.
The 402 is also very new to me. I do like what I am hearing but really would like to know what choices I may have for an improvement to my system.
My question: What amp is a better match for my AR? What really would I be gaining if I were to change?
I like the power of the 402.
My speakers are the Montana EPX. They are 4 Ohm. "these are keepers"
Thanks in advance for your input, it is greatly appreciated.
Dave
valleyplastic
dsremer
210 posts
 
I just sold my A.R.LS25 great preamp, may I suggest tube rolling. Your mac is fine. Other suggestions are good balanced cables.
audiobugged
528 posts
 
Hey Dave, The cables you've mentioned are fine! I also feel that prior to any other changes, Tube Rolling may be the next place to begin experimenting with your new pre. Maybe some other fellow Audio Research LS25MKl users will come to your aid in sharing some of their tube rolling discoveries?
aball
2,016 posts
 
Make sure your system isn't "new to you" before you go changing things. It will make your future changes a lot more sensible.
gmorris
351 posts
 
I am using the 6H23 NOS Type 2 from Upscale Audio in my LS25 MKI with excellent results.
perfectionist
197 posts
 
Chiming in a little late here, but, I second Gmorris as I'm running the same tubes in my LS25 MKI, much better than the stock Sovteks. Other than the type 2 EH tubes from upscale, I haven't rolled any others. I don't know anything about the MAC 402, but if it's a truly balanced amp and your not using XLR cables between pre and amp, you should try it. Switching my system from SE to XLR, specifically between pre and my amps (JC1's) catapulted my system to another level entirely.
More to discover