2. amps-preamps
  3. 190522-178962

Keep McIntosh C2500 pre-amp or upgrade to C12000?

I am looking to upgrade the sound of my system. My audio guy has told me to consider selling my C2500 and upgrading to the C12000. I’d like to hear an enhanced sound stage. Several folks have told me to start with the pre-amp. Of course this comes down to the VALUE of selling a classic and buying the new kid. I am interested in hearing your input. Thanks in advance.

meadski
avanti1960
1,480 posts
 

Cary Audio SLP 05 two chassis preamp sounds competitive to tha Mac at half the price.  a new one is on sale at cary direct for 5997.  love mine completely.  

whitecap
121 posts
 

Agree with @glennewick: swap in some NOS tubes to the C2500.   Telefunken in our C2500 was a major game changer.  Major.  If not, I would have sold that Mac a long time ago.  

meadski OP
9 posts
 

Which Telefunken tubes? And, @elliottbnewcombjr I did not buy the Sonetto III. but the Olympica Nova III. I upgraded pre-purchase. I enjoy them.

laaudionut
265 posts
 

I second the Aric Audio Motherlode suggestion. I had both the 2300 and the 2500 prior to the Motherlode...the difference in performance will make you question Mac and high end audio (read; exorbitant cost structure) in general.

whitecap
121 posts
 

@meadski:  NOS Telefunken 12AX7, recommended and purchased from Kevin at Upscale.   Made a night and day improvement to the C2500.  

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