Quote:
Originally Posted by tripitz
Curious if anyone here has picked up a C2700 and has initial impressions of it. I may be checking out a used C2600 and am considering the C2700 because I could use the upgraded DAC and improved phono stage. My budget does not allow for C1100 + DAC + amp at this time (used 2600 + 462 is what I am leaning towards right now).
Reviews of the C2700 are virtually nonexistent so far. Currently have a MA252 that I am enjoying, except I need more inputs, a DAC (tried the PS Audio Direcstream and am returning), and ultimately more power for my speakers.
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I have owned a C2700 for a little over a month and it is mated with an MC462. It replaced a C2500 so I can not offer quite the comparison you are asking for. I can tell you the the C2700 outclasses the C2500 sonically in every area. The C2700 has improved low bass response both in the phono stage as well as the high level stage and the DA2 is superior to the DAC in the C2500. Any source is improved with the C2700, so the improvements (clarity, depth of image, neutrality, etc.) in the high level stage are a big deal, too. The gain in reproducing classical music is pretty profound, actually.
The C2700 is designed and
intended to be a control preamp, so it of necessity should have tone controls, a DAC, etc. IMHO, I do not see a downside to having the DA2 on board, particularly since it can be upgraded for future improvements. By inference, because the C2700 handily supersedes the C2500, it should also supersede the C2300, which is derived from the same developmental generation as the C2500 and does not have a DAC. According to McIntosh, the C2700 phono stages have an 80 dB S/N vs. a 75 dB S/N for the C2600 and the new DA2 is more capable. If you can swing the extra coin, I suggest that you go with the latest effort. YMMV.
Happy listening!
Bob
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Sources: Koetsu Onyx/Sumiko MCD800 "The Arm"/SOTA Star Sapphire with vacuum platter, electronic flywheel,and some update mods; MCT500 CD/SACD transport; OPPO 205; NAD C446 Internet Tuner; Nakamichi 670ZX cassette deck.
Electronics: MacIntosh C2700 preamp w/DA2 and MC462 power amp.
Speakers: Wilson Yvettes
Headphones: MacIntosh MHP 1000
Interconnects: Transparent G5 balanced and speaker cables; MCT - MCT500 -> C2700.Power cords: Transparent G5 (on preamp, power amp and transport). Surge protected.
Record cleaner: Kirmuss KA-RC-1 ultrasonic.