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Preamp: Mcintosh vs Modwright?

I asked this on the Bryston board over at Audio Circle and was hoping that some of you Agoners may provide some help.

I am looking for a tube pre to go with my 14b (speakers are OB1's) and am looking at either a
Modwright SWL 9.0SE or a Mcintosh C220.
This would be moving my Musical Fidelity CD-Pre24 to handle just cd playback and no preamp duties.

Feature wise, the Mac is more than I will use (no turntable in my system), where as the Mod, being
only a linestage will probably be enough to handle any future components.

Has anyone had the chance to compare these two pre's with a Bryston amp?

If I go for the Modwright, I would get it with the SWL Tube Recificatication Upgrade.
Cost wise, this would make about $3000 for a new SWL vs $3300 for a new C220.
I realize on the used market (Agon), the Mac may command a slightly higher resale price than the Mod.

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.
hpower
tvad
9,467 posts
 
If I were you, I'd check with Dan Wright about the status of the power supply as it compares with the production model. If his explanation does not satisfy you, then I'd suggest moving on. What can any of us possibly add to assuage your concerns beyond what the manufacturer can tell you?
hpower OP
19 posts
 
I just heard from the seller and he has excepted an offer so it looks like I will be moving on.
The search goes on.
jamnperry
123 posts
 
I don't know exactly what changed from the first run of 50 to the next production. I know there was a muting circuit change, and a layout change probably to ease the assembly. Aside from that, I don't know of any differences that would affect the sound until the introduction of the new caps recently. Dan would know of course.
These were not the prototypes, though. The prototypes were the 2 box beta models. There is one here which you've no doubt seen.
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