I think many people here are relating to the older Mac sound, the new McIntosh sound is not rolled off, I have a C2700 and 275 amp, running into Spendor D9.2's and they are not rolled off. they are very neutral and detailed IMO. Id say you can adjust the sound somewhat with tubes as well. The new Mac is not the same as the older mac. and the C2700 just does everything well, has a ton of inputs, can integrate with a TV if needed (ARC), has tone controls if needed etc etc. not many preamps on the market that have the features of the C2700.
Gryphon Diablo vs. McIntosh C2700/MC611
I know similar questions have been asked, but I was looking for input regarding the Gryphon Diablo and the current Mac separates. I currently have Harbeth Super HL5+ XD speakers. I listen through a Technics turntable and will be getting an Aurender N200. I will likely change speakers down the road.
I am replacing my Peachtree Nova 500. I have narrowed my pre-amp/amp choices down to a slightly used Gryphon Diablo with DAC and a McIntosh C2700/MC611 combo. I will be able to audition the Mac combo this week but am not able to audition the Gryphon Diablo. The non-audio pluses and minuses are:
Mac - dealer close by, I prefer its traditional layout
Gryphon - less expensive, one box.
Does anyone have any experience with the Diablo and the current Mac separates? Most threads that I read were before the C2700 with its DAC 2. Also, if I upgrade speakers, it would likely be to the Harbeth 40.3 or the Sonus Faber Amati, Serarino or Guarneri Traditions.
TIA
Lew