2. analog
  3. 136780-11220

Recommended phono stage to go with McIntosh

Hello-

Looking into upgrading a few elements in my system and would like to hear everyone’s comments/suggestions on how to best move forward. System looks like this:

Piega C10 Ltds speakers
McIntosh Mc402 amp. Possibly adding an extra to run mono as the Piegas like their juice.
McIntosh C2200 preamp
Technics 1200 GR turntable with stock arm
Lehmannaudio Black Cube 2
Carts are MoFi Master Tracker and Vasari Gold Note
Chords are Audience and Shunyata

Upgrading the phono stage, arm and carts at some time. I only have MM carts now. McIntosh does have a recently introduced phono stage, not sure how good it is. Budget for the phono stage is $3000?

Your thoughts suggestions on how to move forward. Thanks!
knollbrent
knollbrent's avatar
knollbrent OP
528 posts
 
Bass needs to tighten up, that's about it. I really like the C2200 and think adjusting the tubes a little is going to be the best and least expensive move of them all. 

Treat the room a little we've got a triple bam!

russbutton's avatar
russbutton
462 posts
 
@knollbrent   I assume your phono preamp uses 12AX7 tubes.  The big names I've heard are:

Mullard
Telefunken
RCA Clear Tops

A good place to begin looking for tubes is:

https://www.thetubestore.com/search?keywords=12AX7

I'd also recommend that you login to the discussion forum that the tubes4hifi.com crowd uses:

http://dynacotubeaudio.forumotion.com/

Those guys will have a lot to say about different kinds of tubes.  There's also the DIY audio site:

http://www.diyaudio.com/

What I find to be immensely rewarding is getting my hands inside the gear in some fashion.  I've built loudspeakers off and on since the late 70's.  There's little more satisfying than really being hands on with your gear.  And you'd be shocked at how good the right DIY designs can be.
knollbrent's avatar
knollbrent OP
528 posts
 
Excellent @russbutton   I'll do some further research. I agree, it is nice to hands on.
More to discover