Budget? I’ve got an Audio Research Reference 6 feeding an MC452 and it sounds great. It was a huge improvement over the C47 it replaced.
Good Pre-Amps For McIntosh
Any suggestions for a "synergistic" combination between McIntosh MC 601 monoblocks? I have some pre-amp problems and am thinking of replacing the pre-amp.
Stick with a McIntosh pre-amp? Go with something else? Tube or solid-state? The input impedance on the 601's is 22K. Speakers are Revels Ultima Salon 2's with a pair of Rel Subs.
Thanks.
PS
If you hate McIntosh there's really no need to post. Heck, I already know that I'm an uncultured idiot who can't hear real sound and wasted my money etc. I originally wanted the Levinson 53's, but they were out of my range.
Stick with a McIntosh pre-amp? Go with something else? Tube or solid-state? The input impedance on the 601's is 22K. Speakers are Revels Ultima Salon 2's with a pair of Rel Subs.
Thanks.
PS
If you hate McIntosh there's really no need to post. Heck, I already know that I'm an uncultured idiot who can't hear real sound and wasted my money etc. I originally wanted the Levinson 53's, but they were out of my range.
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I use a MC352 and I have gone through several pre amps, here I will recommend two tube based because tubes will inject some real palpable sound with texture and awesome color with beauty of tone. The Manley Labs 300B would be my first choice. Has a very low output impedance so it will drive those 601’s no problem. RCA only. If you like headphones, your really in for a treat as well. www.manley.com/hifi/neo3br The other very high on your consideration list should be the Modwright LS300 http://www.modwright.com/products/ls300-balanced-tube-preamplifier.php Again very low output impedance can drive those 601’s no problem. Plus you can use balanced cables if thats appealing. I like the Audio Research as well, but these two I like a little more:-) Matt M |
Thanks for the suggestions. I'd be interested in more. I was driving these with a Conrad Johnson 17LS2 (4 tubes) and sometimes with a CJ 18 SS. I liked the 17LS better. For some reason something weird has happened to both so I've sent them to CJ for diagnostics and perhaps repair. I'm tempted by the C53 because it's upgradeable and has an equalizer (miss that from years gone by), but it's not tubes and I wondered about the potential "sameness" of sound. As for price: I don't know as yet. The AR 6 is about $15k list, that might be a bit steep the 53 is $8,000 list. I've looked at the recommendations and will continue to so thanks! Any other thoughts? |
- 16 posts total