I know this is an old discussion but I’m actually facing the same dilema as vinny8888 at this moment. Want to buy a good preamplifier and stay with McIntosh and my 402 but do not know if I want to go the tube (c2300) route or (c50), - not able to demo them actually -. I have had both tube and ss gear before so do not have a preference and I get effischer’s point, much depends on the music you play; I play mostly classic rock 60%; some jazz 25% and other stuff 15%, recently much internet radio (via cambridge streaming) and vinyl and cd’s (via oppo 95). So theo, and others my question is: which one is best taking into account this music I prefer? Agon members input is much appreciated. By the way: Speakers are B&W 804D2.
