2. amps-preamps
  3. 135118-100099

Will McIntosh C2600 tube preamp solve my problem?

I'm a newby, having resurfaced to hifi after 35 years of raising a family and all the expenses associated with that.  I recently purchased B&W 802 D3 speakers because I loved their clarify and crisp high-end sound.  Soon after, my 35 year-old Adcom amp died so I replaced it with the Rotel RB-1590 that I have paired with my 35 year-old Rotel preamp.  The sound is very good, but I'm looking to warm it up a bit.  My weak link is my preamp and a local McIntosh dealer recommended the C2600.  Due to my lack of knowledge, I'm clueless of tubes versus solid state and even more uninformed of how the C2600 would pair with my Rotel amp.  Any advise would be helpful.  And please, keep it as simple as possible.
rickbyrd
freediver
1,121 posts
 
Welcome back...My first recommendation is sell the amp,put the funds together and get yourself a good Tube Integrated Amplifier!For your speakers I would say something from Primaluna,Rogue Audio,VTL(IT85) or Cary(SLI80)...
Unless you have a big system & need lots of inputs you save space & eliminate an I/C & power cord...
Ag insider logo xs@2x
greginnh
382 posts
 
+1
rhljazz
1,252 posts
 
I don’t think a tube integrated is a good match for 802D3’s, and especially for someone who purchased said speakers for their crisp highs.

The C2600 is $7K.  The review from Enjoythemusic.com noted that the C2600 was limited at both frequency extremes.  So, probably not the right tool for what you want to do. However, if the dealer will let you try before you buy, why not!

Do you really need a dac included?  That’s part of the price of the C2600.

Do you only want new, or open to purchasing used?  How about other features such as a remote, phono stage, true balanced outputs?

What are your listening levels and music preferences?  With a lot more information, I and others may be able to assist.


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