2. amps-preamps
  3. 1303593186

McIntosh Preamp Decision...C26 or C504

I've been using a C26 preamp for 30+ years. Now having minor problems. I don't know what aq C504 is YET, but I have the chance to buy one long distance from a friend. I don't have to pay for it unless I like it. He wants $750. for it. Is this a fair price? Is it an improvement over a C26? I would like more versatility. I would REALLY like it if it has balanced inputs. Any thoughts or opinions or advice?
bababondoman
sid42
302 posts
 
I'm sorry, I meant to say "preamps", not amps in the reply above. Another consideration is whether you want remote control or not. It may also be that a C41 had one set of balanced inputs as you need. I would think a C38 would be a good choice, it has a remote control, no balanced inputs, but isn't much more than you want to spend for the C504.
singleendedsingle
664 posts
 
Yes, its better than the c26 IMO. I remember one selling for $700. If your friend's 504 is on mint condition, then its a fair price.
bababondoman OP
9 posts
 
Hello All. THANKS MUCH for all the information that has been sent to me. You have saved me money. I find it hard to believe that McIntosh Labs would EVER have installed balanced XLR connectors that were not actually balanaced. I still have not made a decision yet. But the 504 isn't going anywhere. Thanks again.
cajunpepe
255 posts
 
Bababondoman,
The current c2300 at $6k has balanced ins and outs and it is not a "truly" balanced pre amp. You must jump to the 2 chassis c500 to get "truly" balanced.

pepe
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