New Mcintosh C-22

Sounds like Audio Nirvana!

Music does that to me and the C22 just sounds like music!

After a look at current setup and making a choice to start minimizing gear on the racks (2 DACs) I have decided to simplify. I ended up picking up a new C47. Appreciate all the feedback. Looking towards settling back this weekend and unboxing and setting up. Am very much taken with the simplicity of this piece. 

So many are quick to rip on McIntosh, calling the sound dated, slow, dull etc.. I have owned quite a bit of Mac gear throughout the years and have always found it ultimately listenable for hours on end.  Build quality is top drawer.  I think that you will find that all Mac preamps have a similar sound (I did), whether tubes or solid state.  That always impressed me, because they are equally voiced.  And yes, I love tone controls.  When I want a little more top end I adjust the treble, a little more bass, same thing.  I have too many friends that adjust their treble and bass by changing cables..  I just shake my head.

Enjoy your C-22.  It's and excellent choice.

ps7256: I've found that, with my Sumiko Blackbird High Output MC cartridge, I get better sound with the MM (moving magnet) phono input. The MC (moving coil) input sounds strained/compressed compared to the MM. I believe the MM has fewer gain stages to affect the sound.