2. amps-preamps
  3. 170719-158255

McIntosh Preamps

I have a pair of Sonus Faber Grand Piano Home speakers (about 18 years old and in fine shape) and an old NAD RECEIVER (about 30 years old) that recently went kaput!

The NAD never allowed me to listen to the full potential of the Grand Pianos, so I want to power the speakers to their peak.  Specs say they are rated up to 200 watts.  I have a friend who has offered to sell me his McIntosh MC452 power amp (450 watts).  It is way more than I need at the moment, but it might be good to build on into the future.

I cannot afford NEW McIntosh equipment, so if I purchase it, I have to find a suitably matched USED pre-amp.  What preamp model from McIntosh would best match the 452.(assuming I could find a used one in good condition)?  

mr04654

Showing 2 responses by mrklas

mrklas
441 posts
 

Any McIntosh preamp will be a good match for the MC 452 and there are a lot of non-McIntosh stuff that would work as well.

What are your sources?  And do you prefer solid state or tube?

The C2600 I bought as a demo was awesome - tube preamp with phono stage and DAC.  There's also solid state preamps like the C47 that are an option.

Good luck in your journey.

mrklas
441 posts
 

I think you will be pleased with the MC312. I have the MC 302 and it's very satisfying. 
 

I would consider an external DAC/streamer.  
 

And enjoy your new system 

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