2. amps-preamps
  3. 135118-100099

Will McIntosh C2600 tube preamp solve my problem?

I'm a newby, having resurfaced to hifi after 35 years of raising a family and all the expenses associated with that.  I recently purchased B&W 802 D3 speakers because I loved their clarify and crisp high-end sound.  Soon after, my 35 year-old Adcom amp died so I replaced it with the Rotel RB-1590 that I have paired with my 35 year-old Rotel preamp.  The sound is very good, but I'm looking to warm it up a bit.  My weak link is my preamp and a local McIntosh dealer recommended the C2600.  Due to my lack of knowledge, I'm clueless of tubes versus solid state and even more uninformed of how the C2600 would pair with my Rotel amp.  Any advise would be helpful.  And please, keep it as simple as possible.
rickbyrd
rickbyrd OP
7 posts
 
Don't understand the discussion of "XLR output connections", but yes, it does help because I can research what you mean and ask my local dealers.
rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
“Source” is analog like a record player, or digital like a CD player.

RCA connectors are what you are familiar with like what is on your old preamp, just one hole in the middle with a barrel for the cable to grip on the outside.

XLR’s have three pin holes and appear completely different than an RCA connection.  The connecting cables are completely different in appearance.

rickbyrd OP
7 posts
 
Thanks for feedback.  Looks like I have some more homework to do.
vishu's avatar
vishu
28 posts
 
I know this is a old post I am responding to. @ rickbyrd
So what did you end my buying?? I was going to buy the C-2600 preamp to pair with Tube mono Blocks.
It has a DAC if that is useful. As the model advances into new version I notice they improve the DAC part and analog part remain the same with very subtle change. Then you are stuck with the older DAC and to upgrade it is expensive. Try to use DAC as separate component, you could buy a new one and sell your old one. Or get a used C2500 if DAC is not important and save $$$
I am  looking at Audio Research LS 28 and the older REF 5SE. LS does not have tube on the power side so it is like Hybrid. But the sales guy says LS 28 is"better than the REF 5SE". I am not sure if this is just a marketing gimmick !!!! Audi Research is good in doing this bringing out newer LS model and terming it Better than the previous REF.  Showing some "measurement values"that may not make sense to many, this is contradictory to 
"these words by owner of ARC William Johnson( he is no more)
With "[T]he measurement techniques we use today really don't necessarily tell you about the sound quality. Obviously, if it measures badly, it isn't going to sound good. But the simple fact that it measures well doesn't assure that it will sound good."
Not sure if ARC is falling the founders words.


tablejockey
3,915 posts
 
The suggestion to get a tube integrated is a smart move, since you like your speakers, but are tube presentation curious.

Based on the price of the Mac, you will have great choices. I wouldn't get hung up on where it's manufactured as well. U.S.A. China...wherever. Get advice from a dealer, who can support you after the purchase.
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