I have a McIntosh power amplifier that I am running CD directly into. I wanted to know if any of you Gon'ers have had any experience using a tubed pre on a Mac solid state amp and what you found to be a synergistic match.
I'm using a Rogue 99 Magnum with my MC162. I added some NOS tubes and I really like the sound. I've been curious to try it with other preamps but the Rogue has everything I need.
Im using a Cary SLP90 with great results on a MC402...tried going direct once with my MCD7007 into a MC7300 with very poor results. Go for the pre, agree with Aball on lack of dynamics..it just sounded too flat with no air or presence to the sound. Good luck.
im having some fantastic results from the mcintosh c2200 tube preamp matched with my mc500 ss amp.
im done looking at other preamps,the c2200 is the end for me,the combo is extremly dynamic & smooth at the same time.
i agree with both aball & velo62,get a preamp into the chain & your imaging will increase greatly,mac gear has always sounded its best to my ears when ran with other mac gear.
I'm using a CJ premier 14 with Mullard tubes - great match. Mac amps have a low input impedence and some of the newer CJ amps have a high output impedence, the premier 14 is less than 250 ohms, similar to Mac preamps. I don't know if it really matters, I'm not technical enough, perhaps listening is the best judge when possible, but just an FYI.
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