2. misc-audio
  3. 128106-92651

Idiot trying to upgrade his system - likes the tube sound

I currently have a McIntosh C275 tube amp with Wilson WattPuppy 7 speakers, along with a MC22 preamp and redbook CD player. I don't like vinyl records (for the most part). I heard SACD's and DSD high resolution, so want to go with a better SACD / DAC combination. My local audio folks (Paragon in Ann Arbor, MI) are nice folks, but cater to the wealthy. I have $$$, having sold 2 of my biotech companies, but I am a careful person about spending money on audio. I am 62 and a professor at a medical school.

Sorry for the long intro- Here is my question: Should I trade in my Rotel (very nice) CD player and MC22 preamp - get the new Marantz SA-10 SACD player, but then what should I hook that into? A new 1100 McIntosh digital or analogue preamp? Should I buy a more powerful ampilifier then the MC275 (at 75 watts per channel)? Any advice out there - I woud be very grateful. Thank-you! 
gerryah930

Showing 1 response by theothergreg

theothergreg
222 posts
 
Your MC275 actually puts out closer to 90 wpc, so they should be plenty powerful enough to drive your Wilsons.  If you haven't changed out the stock tubes, I would suggest getting some Gold Lion Reissue KT88s - big step up in musicality and dynamics. 

I run my MC275 with a C1100 preamp, but since you do not like vinyl, I would suggest you look at the new C2600 - all of the goodness of the C2500 with an improved DAC. 

I also have an MCD550 SACD player with my setup because I like the single brand look and system synergy, but you can't go wrong with the Marantz.  If you want to try a Modwright, I would suggest that you try to find a used unit.  I sent my OPPO 105D to them for the full Truth modification and upgraded tubes.  For a variety of reasons I ended up selling it at a pretty steep loss.

Hope that helps.
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