Upgrade to McIntosh

MC601’s and C2300 Pre with Telefunken smooth plate 12ax7 for both Phono and Line stage driving my Vandersteen 2CE Signature II and I couldn’t be happier.

With McIntosh being roon certified I wonder how much more it would have cost to add full mqa? There’s a lot of albums I’ll pull up on qobuz with most of the songs unavailable and tidal will offer the complete album so without getting into a mqa vs flac debate not having mqa does limit what’s available. If asked I think more often than not the recording itself makes a more audible difference than the format, and it would be an easier decision if buying a da2 made more music available to me. 

I ordered my McIntosh C2700 yesterday. Did I need it? Probably not but I had permission from the boss sooooo! Will just sell my C2600 at that point. 

One of the incentives the dealer offered me was full trade up value for my purchase. Said it was a mac thing. Something to look forward to 

Regarding the originator’s question about separates, I primarily use a McIntosh C2300 (the last, all-analog, tube preamp; I don’t listen to digital files, and wouldn’t want a built-in DAC if I did!), coupled to a McIntosh MC402 amplifier. Although the MC402 is a solid-state amp, it uses Autoformers whose output impedance is similar to a tube amplifier. I have this pair coupled to a pair of B&W Matrix 801 Series III loudspeakers. This combination provides tight, solid bass and warmer mids and highs, Great sound!

Previously, I used a Sunfire Classic Vacuum Tube Control Center (tube preamp) with Sunfire 300 amplifier, coupled to Innersound Isis loudspeakers, so I definitely prefer the tube/solid-state combination. I still own the Sunfire tube preamp (sounds so good I couldn't get rid of it), and occasionally pair it up with various other (solid-state) amplifiers I still own to listen to for a change!

Go with separates, it gives you more flexibility and options.