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McIntosh Tube Pre vrs Audio Research

Can anyone comment based on their experience between a McIntosh tube pre amp like a C2200, C2500, C50. to an Audio Research Pre amp like a LS26, LS27. I currently have an LS26 and recently got a Mac Amp for my Wilson Watt puppies and really love it. Thinking about upgrading my pre, Curious what people here have to say about the two brands.
Thank you
vdosc
vdosc OP
51 posts
 
Well thanks for the input. I do currently have the LS26 and a ARC PH5 and a Benchmark DAC. If I could consolidate into one pre amp (C2500) and it sounded just as good, that would be great. If it sounded better ? Well then thats the dream ! I realize the only way to know is to buy one and try it out. But I welcome everyone experiences and opinions.

Thank you
theo's avatar
theo
2,681 posts
 
You may consider the ARC SP20, it doesn't have a DAC but I hear it is a real good performer. My dealer says that in a listening between the LS27 and SP20 they perform at the same level with certain subtle differences.
I have thought of it as well, but haven't had a chance to hear it.
vdosc OP
51 posts
 
Here is an interesting comparison : This weekend, my friend brought over his VTL 2.5 pre and we compared it to my LS 26.
In short, the 26 was more "analytical" as the reviewers often say.
The VTL has a beautiful lush mid range which is what I am looking for, but the LS 26 had a deeper and tighter bottom. Which is also what I am looking for. The VTL by comparison was more musical and LS26 tended to have a bit of a upper mid "glare". So I am still searching for the pre amp that will give me the "magic" tube mid sound, 3 dimensional capability all with the deep and accurate bottom end.
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