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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
ei001h
290 posts
 
ad48170

I have the same exact set up as you with MC452,C2600, mcd550 and SF Elipsa. Though I noticed you switched  your speakers to Amati Futura. May I ask what prompted this change. What cables are you using? I love my current set up, but still using cheap blue jeans cables and stock power cords. 
ejr1953
918 posts
 
I upgraded the stock tubes which were delivered with my McIntosh C2500 with a matched set of Genalex Gold Lions and immediately noticed more "musical" sounds, especially for voices and natural instruments (piano, classical guitar, violins, etc.)
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
I've also got a Mcintosh C2500 and rolled out the Mcintosh branded JJ's.  I am current using Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7, the gold pin ones.  Before getting the GL's I had Mullard 12AX7's reissues but not the 4004's, they sound just as good as the GL's and cost a bit less.
jeffinnh76
25 posts
 
Hi folks - I'm looking to do the same thing: replace my analog tubes work some Gold Lions. What tubes on the C2600 would be the ones I want to swap out? 
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,500 posts
 
Tried the Gold Lion 12AX7 tubes in my McIntosh C2500 preamp.  Listened for a week, liked the McIntosh branded tubes much better. I bought the a gold Lion tubes from Upscale.  They were rated “uncle Kevin’s personal stash”. Which are their most expensive and lowest noise.  If anyone is interested in them, send me a PM. I am not planning on listing them, too much of a hassle. 
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