Which Pre

[mdkim]

I have decided to be a good boy and build a system for my father. His system will consist of an MC275, my current C2300, and my current Bryston sources. I'm on the fence regarding speakers but am leaning towards a pair of PMCs or Dynaudio Contours.

This leaves my system sans a pre...intentionally done so I can upgrade . I suppose I'm not that great a son...haha.

Anyways, I am considering a C500T, or maybe a Ref 5SE. I am also open to suggestions. I suppose I could save money by simply getting another C2300 but that wouldn't be as fun .

I am happy with my system's tone but could use a little more control on orchestra/symphony and fast paced bass, piano, etc...Thoughts?

[gtubes]

Wow, he's a lucky dad. I don't think you can go wrong with a C500T or Ref 5SE, personal taste will dictate which pre wins that match. But I wonder about a single MC275 and PMCs..on the amp selection I might select the speakers and work back to the amp requirements. Sounds like the pre is the easiest task with those two options!!

[Jerome W]

Originally Posted by mc602

Wow, he's a lucky dad. I don't think you can go wrong with a C500T or Ref 5SE, personal taste will dictate which pre wins that match. But I wonder about a single MC275 and PMCs..on the amp selection I might select the speakers and work back to the amp requirements. Sounds like the pre is the easiest task with those two options!! Can I be your dad?

That depends on the model of PMCs. Some can work very well with only one 275 but the bigger ones would need more juice.
As for preamp recommendation, I' m fully in love with my C1000P. Never heard the 500P but could be on par with it.
It is a highly transparent and dynamic, yet very musical preamp, able to express the magic of any power amp connected to it.
I used it with many various amps, SS and tubes, including a very special EL34 pair of monoblocks made in a cave by a " friend", and the result is unbelievable. It seems to me that there are not many preamps at the level of the C1000 on the market. Very hard to beat.

Sent from my iPad using A.Aficionado

[joeinid]

Michael,

You are a good son. You just happen to be a smart one as well

I think the C500T is a logical choice. When I has my MC601's, I had a Conrad Johnson ET-5 with them and I LOVED that combination. I still think about it. So that's my vote, something from CJ but the ARC Ref5se is superb as well and I think you will get many opinions. Only you can determine which is "right" for you.

[gtubes]

Originally Posted by C220MC275

That depends on the model of PMCs. Some can work very well with only one 275 but the bigger ones would need more juice.
As for preamp recommendation, I' m fully in love with my C1000P. Never heard the 500P but could be on par with it.
It is a highly transparent and dynamic, yet very musical preamp, able to express the magic of any power amp connected to it.
I used it with many various amps, SS and tubes, including a very special EL34 pair of monoblocks made in a cave by a " friend", and the result is unbelievable. It seems to me that there are not many preamps at the level of the C1000 on the market. Very hard to beat.

Sent from my iPad using A.Aficionado

Jerome, agree on the amp/pmc, I just think about every once in a while punching the throttle and there being no juice when you want it...

[mdkim]

Thanks guys.

The PMCs would be either the FB1i or OB1i if I can stretch it. Whether there's enough juice is a question I've been thinking about as well. Dad has a thing for MC tubes so the 275 is a must and I can't do two of them.

Joe: I recall your strong endorsement for the ET5 with my first post several months back. I will try to listen to some CJ; new dealer involvement and price uncertainty have held me up thus far. But with your current level of gear and past experience I do value your input.

My dilema, if you can call it that, is that I don't think I'll be able to swing a 5SE for home demo. C500 is not a problem though.

[joeinid]

Michael,

I've heard the C500T plus the MC2301's and I was extremely impressed with that combination. I have no doubt the C500T/MC601 combination will be just as good with a slightly different flavor. One thing I've finally figured out, "synergy" is real and mixing brands can be problematic. Please keep us posted.

[cmalak]

Michael...I agree with Joe. Even though I am a big ARC fan, I wouls also recommend sticking with the C500 or if you can stretch it the C1000. Good luck.

[bradleyc]

If you like your C2300 with 601's, you'll be even happier with a C500T. Great bang for the buck pre-amp that matches up well with Mac SS amps , couldn't be more pleased with mine...

[mdkim]

Thanks all for your replies. I'll probably follow everyone's advice and pick up a C500T. I was leaning that way initially since it made practical sense staying within the MC family.