McIntosh C15 Vs. C712

I've owned both preamps and really can't tell the difference in sound...I do prefer the various loudness control of the C712 much better than the on/off control of the C15...the C712 feels heavier and more substantial, but I don't know that it's any better built...both are great preamps!

I've owned the C712, and for short runs like you mention, there isn't any advantage to using the balanced outs. Are you looking to buy one of these? If so, Mac made a much better preamp in the C37. Not only do you get the balanced outs, you have the unbalanced main outs, and 2 speaker outs, which are essentially 2 additional main outs. You also have the 5-band equalizer, more inputs, and on and on. See roger-russell.com for info on all these preamps. On a personal level, I dumped my C712 for the C37, and was the best move I could have made. What's my amp? The MC7200, a fantastic amp!

I have owned many preamps and keep coming back to the C15 because of its simplicity, format, flexibility, and the remote power-on features which I use with the McIntosh power strip. Its a keeper. Right now, it drives an MC-275-Iv and its a great combination running a pair of Totem mani-2s