Which preamp is better C50 or C2500 for MC402?

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.

Or go with the Aesthetix Calypso and go to a whole new level.
I have Mac 501's with the C2200 and have heard this combo ( Aesthetix Calypso )and wow do they make a great PRE..

Thanks russe41, was also thinking of the Audible Illusions 3A, some say it is also top notch if I decide to go out of the McIntosh circle.

I have heard the Audible Illusions 3A extensively at a friend's who actually recently switched to a Calypso as an upgrade - his words, and I completely agree that it is indeed an upgrade. He had originally bought the AI for its excellent phone stage but his record collection is now all boxed up and temporarily stored in my basement. The Calypso is not quite broken in yet but it does have more detail and much better bass. He also used to complain about the AI's customer service and had it sent back twice for repairs, both times under warranty but took months to get it back.

I've had a C2500 for about 5 weeks now and love it.  I can''t comment MC402 but 2500 is a wonderful addition to my system.  The 2500 replaced my long time Musical Fidelity A308 full function pre-amp.  I purchased it on this site, new in the box with a 3 year McIntosh Warranty.  Please note, some older C2500's may need a "Firmware" update to correct a minor internal DAC/USB issues. The NOS one's you're seeing on this site have the latest "Firmware".

Good Luck!