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Mcintosh C2600 preamp tube upgrade

I recently added the new McIntosh C2600 tube preamp to my system. It's paired up with the MC452 power amp along with Sonus Faber Elipsa speakers and Transparent interconnects/speaker cable.
I"m looking for some guidance with regard to upgrading the tubes in the C2600. Should I, or shouldn't I ? 
Also, what brand should I look for and where should I buy them. And finally, is this a diy upgrade or should I have it done at a audio shop? 
I appreciate any guidance all you audiophiles can offer
ad48170
miketuason
337 posts
 
Yes, it's significant. The clarity, sound stage, the transparency are very well improved, but you will only noticed this after you're done breaking in your C2600
ad48170 OP
15 posts
 
how many hours would you estimate for total break in? I'm only at about 50 hours currently and really haven't noticed any measurable change.
miketuason
337 posts
 
You should start hearing some difference around the first 200 hours.

ad48170 OP
15 posts
 
Thank you for all your help Mike!
ad48170 OP
15 posts
 
Mike, one last question. There are 6 tubes, right and left mm, right and left mc along with main input and main output. My only source equipment is a mcd550 CD player, so do I only replace the main input and output? And I assume I would use the gold lion?
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