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Building a System around old McIntosh Components

A friend of mine has a McIntosh 2100 solid-state amplifier (100 wpc, very heavy) and an MR-65 tuner. He's wanting help building a system around it. The room configuration is pretty much set. The speakers face the couch and back up against a large plate glass window (nice view). I would say the speakers shouldn't be rear ported, nor should they be too high to block the view (e.g. around 30"). He can move them forward for more serious listening... then the situation becomes more near field.

So I'm thinking a tube preamp (<1000 used) like a Quicksilver, Eastern Electric, or??? For speakers, any suggestion on what would mate well with this amplifier? I really like Totem and Spendor, and they could be either monitors or floor standing (<1500 used). CDP will be bought new (Music Hall or Rega Apollo?).

Also - those who know this McIntosh gear... do you think the amp should be serviced to replace caps or do you think it should still be fine. I imagine the tuner definitely needs to be serviced. Who does McIntosh repair well?

Thanks for ideas. Peter
peter_s
theo's avatar
theo
2,663 posts
 
I think if you are going to do any McIntosh repair or refurbashing there are tow choices that I would consider.
FIRST: McIntosh Labs SECOND: Audio Classics. I would try Mc-Labs first. They will do the most thorough checkout and return the peice to original spec. Be prepared to wait though as everything is as mentioned a very thorough checkout. Audio Classics are all old Mc people and can do a near equivalant job. But I think that Mc will actually re-ship in new box as well. They always have my stuff.
They are great people to work with and love their gear as much as we do.
lfb44
28 posts
 
Lots of preamp choices out there - including one of the older Mac SS preamps that were designed to work with the MC2100. You might browse http://audiokarma.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=54

I've used Terry DeWick in TN and Audio Classics NY for repairs and updates on McIntosh equipment, including tuners, and have been well satisfied with both.

Have fun.
peter_s OP
1,317 posts
 
Another preamp I'm thinking about is the VTL 2.5. I really like the McIntosh 2200, I've heard it before, but I think it's too pricey.
bretldwigd630
1 posts
 
In considering a preamp the first question should always be, "Do I need a preamp"? The answer, if you are not a turntable user, is often no. McIntosh has recognized this with the release of their latest optical player, which has a (usable, quality) volume control and an output of high enough level and low impedance so as to drive most any power amp. If the power amp has good sensitivity and a high impedance input most any CD player or tuner will do well in driving the unit directly, however.

If you listen to CDs only, vis-a-vis DVD-A or SACD, the purchase of a good DAC with a low impedance output and a voume control is a most advisable move. The Benchmark DAC has set the bar, it is cost-effective and sounds superior to ones costing 4-6 times as much.
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