New McIntosh C22 - Upgrade Transparent Balanced Musiclink Plus

@geof3 

Thanks for the update.  I didn't realize that.

Can you please explain what a “valve” unit is?  I am assuming you are referring to replacing the tubes?

Tubes OP. I've been a Mac guy for 50 years. C22 is a very nice piece. If you're going to use the MC, MM phono sections same goes for that. Telefunkens, RCAs, Blackburns, or the PSVANE Art Series. ECC83 12AX7.

Just a pair, not all 6. In the "Main" position only. Matching and having matched valves is the secrete to great sounding Macs. Folks cheap out on the valves and then wonder why they sound OK vs GREAT..

Matched means top to bottom and left to right.. The key to fidelity with Macs

Very interesting, because I think it sounds good but not GREAT!  I was using a a McIntosh MA252, which I really liked but it didn’t have power needed/wanted.  I was somewhat under whelmed when I first plugged in the C22. 
 

I am using the MM phono with a Linn LP 12.

Transparent newer cables at the same level you are using will out preform the older model.