2. amps-preamps
  3. 1262384385

best preamp for 501's

I will be using ( just purchased, not delivered)501 monoblocks. Have maggie 3.6's, musical fidelity a5 cd player and a michell gyro se turntable. Out of the c46, c2200 or c2300 how do these pair with the 501's. I am amazed ay the varying opinions between the 2200 and 2300. I hear some say that the 2300 is lean sounding, while others say the exact opposite. I prefer a balance of detail and warmth. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
bubbybinka1
lapierre
547 posts
 
No 501s but auditioned different preamps using MC275.

Started with the C46 and loved the open sound with details. The EQ was a bonus to help make adjustments.

Auditioned C2300 with MC275 and felt like the synergy was their with the details and warmth. Since I listen to instrumental music the details from cymbals decaying and strings playing bass guitar are very clear.
muralman1
1,527 posts
 
Try the H2O Fire preamp. It retains all the warmth of the performance without adding any. It will allow your amps to strut their stuff like no other. Most important the Fire was created with ICE amps in mind. They are a perfect match.
lewinskih01
909 posts
 
Keep in mind none of the preamps you are inquiring about is really balanced design, despite having XLR outputs. Within the McIntosh line, to get a balanced design you have to go to the C500 (very expensive!), or just go to another manufacturer.

You might want to post the question over at the McIntosh forum in Audiokarma.

My two cents.

Horacio
More to discover