C48/50 vs C2300

[C2300MC275]

I too went from c220 to c2300. I completely endorse the views above - there is no contest between these 2 - the gap was wider than even I anticipated. I found the following:

> Increased resolution from both line stage and mc phono - hearing more nuances, better timbral accuracy. I believe this pre to be more neutral. The c220 just adds a little extra syrop on the pancake.

> Soundstage is wider and much deeper with the c2300

> The dynamics contrasts through the c2300 seem to have more impact too.

Overall, it is such a superb unit that I see it as the cornerstone to my system. It also happens to look rather splendid too. Those meters just smile at you, and its green hair do is a nice party trick when listening in the dark.

Enjoy,

Bill

[Gigo]

Dear All,
I have a C2300 within my AV system in passthrough mode to separate my 2ch listening from the AV receiver.
I love the tube warm sound of the C2300, but it is a bit too much gear for me.
I was thinking of selling both (AVR and C2300) and getting the MX150 if the 2ch sound is as good or better than the C2300, any thoughts / opinions on that?

[PMCH]

I haven't really compared the c2300 with other preamps but I did compare it to the stock tubes vs the Gold Lions. It sounds like a completely different preamp for the better. If you can demo a c2300 it would most likely have the stock tubes in it and you wouldn't be able to tell how good it can really sound.

[Kalle Klovn]

Just sold my C220 and ordered a C48. I used telefunken smooth plate and Mullard re-makes with the C220. Really loved it dispite of some weaknesses; noise at high volumes, no ht passthrough, and of course the tubes which one might love or hate.

I found though, that sometimes the tube-fuzz was a distraction from just enjoying the music.

[kfr01]

The interesting thing about the new preamplifiers to me is the addition of a USB input and an integrated DAC. As more of us move to computer audio as the primary source, this addition is very welcome. The versatility offered by the DAC with USB inputs would push me toward either of the two new preamps rather than the 2300.

Cheers,
Karl

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by kfr01

The interesting thing about the new preamplifiers to me is the addition of a USB input and an integrated DAC. As more of us move to computer audio as the primary source, this addition is very welcome. The versatility offered by the DAC with USB inputs would push me toward either of the two new preamps rather than the 2300.

Karl.......Welcome to Audio Aficionado.

[Ritmo]

Karl -

I have been very interested in the new c48/50 for the same reason - good pre with good DAC built in. At this point; however, I don't want to compromise. Want the best possible line stage and will add a separate DAC.

By the way, welcome to AA!

Mike

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by Ritmo

Karl -

I have been very interested in the new c48/50 for the same reason - good pre with good DAC built in. At this point; however, I don't want to compromise. Want the best possible line stage and will add a separate DAC.

Mike.......I am certain the new McIntosh C48 and C50 preamplifiers are spectacular performers, but I have reservations about the DAC's being install in a non-modular way that inhibits future DAC upgrades. This is the biggest benefit afforded by outboard DACs. They can be replaced without having to also part with an otherwise premium preamplifier. I like the concept of a preamp and DAC combination, I just wish McIntosh had designed the DAC as a modular board that would have allowed owners greater longevity with future advances in digital technology.

[Ritmo]

Dan -

Completely agree with you. However, this appears to be a trend - Classe is also releasing a pre with an integrated DAC (CP 800).

I've pretty much decided to go with either the C2300 or the ARC LS27. I really don't need the phono on the 2300 but both of these units should be a good match for the MC601s. I'll add a separate DAC.

Thanks,
Mike

[jdandy]

Mike.......I don't see how you could go wrong with the C2300/MC601 combination, then add the Wyred 4 Sound DAC2. That would put you right there.