2. amps-preamps
  3. 179335-1876

Recommendations please!

So I am flirting with getting a new (at least to me) preamp.  I currently run an Audible Illusions Modulus 3A with the MC phono boards.  It's a great preamp that I have been using for maybe ten years, and heartily recommend it to others.  I have thoroughly enjoyed it -- except for the lack of remote.  I am getting to find it tedious to get up to mute it or adjust volume every time I need to do so.  And at ten years of use, it's about the oldest piece in my system, so a change just for the heck of it wouldn't be unwelcome.

I need plenty of inputs (Phono, DAC, CDP, tuner, a couple of aux (for more phono!), and would like both phono section and balance control/dual mono (the Mod 3A is dual mono).  Obviously, a remote.  Amp is a recently upgraded MacCormack DNA-1.  I want something that will sound at least as good as what I have now.  Used is possible, but I'm not interested in vintage this time around.  I like, but don't necessarily require, tubes.  No need for balanced inputs.

 

Budget?  Let's keep it under $3K USD -- preferably WELL under.

 

Tall order, right?  That's why I've kept the AI Mod3A so long . . . 

Thoughts?

 

rnm4

Showing 1 response by glennewdick

glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,737 posts
 

I'm not sure what your budget is but I've been very pleased with the McIntosh C2700 tube preamp, I'm sure you can find an older version. I was originally worried it would be too rolled off sounding but its not your older Mac preamp its very neutral and detailed, With an all tube analogue stage it also has all the tube sound you'd expect like sound staging, musical etc.  The phono stage's are surprisingly good as well. I sold my Gold Note ph10 as the internal tube stage was as quiet and better sounding IMO.

I was not a big fan of Mac gear for years but the newer stuff is surprisingly good and after a demo I ended up keeping it. 

Oh its got enough inputs for any user, plus a great internal DAC that interfaces with a TV very well if that's something you need. 

I bet you could find a reasonably priced used C2200-C2500 and be very happy. Its nice having a piece that everything just works well. 

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