Connectivity Issue with McIntosh C2800 and MX121 – No Sound in Front Channels


Hello Audiogon community,

 

I recently purchased a McIntosh C2800 pre-amplifier to integrate into my home theater system and enhance my music listening experience. The preamp is currently connected via XLR cables to a McIntosh MC252 amplifier (which I plan to replace soon). My front speakers are Sonus Faber Olympica Nova III, paired with two SVS 4000 subwoofers.

 

The audio/video processor is a McIntosh MX121, and a separate McIntosh multi-channel amplifier handles the movie audio. I followed the connection instructions from the manuals. Two XLR cables run from the FL and FR outputs of the MX121 to the Balanced 3 input on the C2800 preamp. Additionally, a 3.5mm stereo cable goes from the Pass Thru on the C2800 to the MX121.

 

Despite checking the connections multiple times, I cannot get sound to pass through to the front channels when turning on the MX121

Any ideas or suggestions on what might be causing this issue?

Thanks in advance for your help!

128x128vinylnostalgic

The C2800 has to be set up for pass through in the menu system.  See page 11 in the owners manual.

Update:  an McIntosh technician, recommended using a different power control for the main amplifier  ( MC 252)  so I changed that to trigger one. 

When I turned on the Mx-121  nothing happened, but after 5 minutes the MC2800 turned on in passthrough mode and it turned on the  MC252 ( as it is supposed to be )  but a few minutes later it shut down.   I do not get it.

I will let you know if this can be overcome. 

 

Update:  an McIntosh technician, recommended using a different power control for the main amplifier  ( MC 252)  so I changed that to trigger one. 

When I turned on the Mx-121  nothing happened, but after 5 minutes the MC2800 turned on in passthrough mode and it turned on the  MC252 ( as it is supposed to be )  but a few minutes later it shut down.   I do not get it.

I will let you know if this can be overcome.