Preamp Comparison: C2300 vs C2500

[Chiliarches]

Howdy, all. First time poster here.

I am looking to move from my Cary SLP-03 to another tube preamp with a remote control but also with more features. Since I already have a Mac power amp (an MC2105 from Audio Classics), a Mac preamp seemed like the way to go, and I have narrowed my search down to the C2300 and the C2500 based on features (or the recent reissue C22, which is gorgeous - but those seem rare). Newer models like the C2600 and C2700 don't have a tape/processor loop, so I have omitted those.

I have read a LOT of the forum threads on these preamps and others in the series, but most thoughts were from folks who hadn't heard both, so I am still fuzzy on some specifics. Here are my questions -


1) How do the phono stages in the C2300 and the C2500 compare?
2) How is the DAC in the C2500? Any ideas on how it would sound compared to my current DAC, a Rega DAC-R?
3) How do the linestages in the C2300 and C2500 compare?

Many thanks for your help on this!

Best,
-John B.

[sid325]

I really can’t speak of the C2500, but I can tell you the C2300 is a classic and I’ll never get rid of mine. Also, I like a separate DAC. You won’t regret choosing the C2300.

Jacob

[John Jordan]

John-

It is my understanding that the 2300 and 2500 are very similar sonically. I had a 2500 for several years and was quite happy with it. The DAC is also quite good. The DAC did have some teething problems with its USB but those were straightened out with firmware 1.03.
You can always continue to use your current DAC or another if you choose.

As a fellow Audio Classics customer, I can say they will never steer you wrong. Runnig these questions by them IMO would be the last word.

Enjoy the Hunt!

[Bob Bubeck]

I can second John Jordan's comments. Spot on. And, the DAC sitting in the C2500 does not hurt a thing and is useful to have.

Permit me to make a comment in passing. Although you plan to forgo the C2600/C2700 options, it might be good to be aware that the C2700 is distinctly better sounding in every way than the C2300/C2500. A quick comparison using a well-recorded piano recording is all it takes. I owned a C2500 for four years and replaced it last fall with a C2700, so that is a comparison I can speak to. All four preamps benefit from upgraded power cords and interconnects, of course.

Good luck and happy listening!

Bob
_______
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 (on preamp, power amp and transport). Surge protected. Record cleaner: Kirmuss KA-RC-1 ultrasonic.

[Cohibaman]

Originally Posted by sid325

I really can’t speak of the C2500, but I can tell you the C2300 is a classic and I’ll never get rid of mine. Also, I like a separate DAC. You won’t regret choosing the C2300.



Jacob

+1

[Stahle]

Too bad you can’t find a C22, I love mine and hope never to get rid of it.

[Msegal]

If the price point is acceptable do not forget one of the double chassis preamplifiers like the C500T or C1000T. Either one will be a distinct upgrade over a single chassis McIntosh preamp, especially if you use the balanced input/output stages.

They do sacrifice the DAC and tone controls if that matters.

Mike S.

[McGuyDLF]

I just upgraded from a c47 to a c2500 - broke even on it as I sold the c47 for what I paid for the c2500 - $2600. It was a steal, I can't find another C2500 for that price anywhere. Phono stage is dead on perfect. I do have "upgraded" tubes in the phone end. Love it. As for the DAC issue, I'm a vinyl guy, rarely if ever listen to digital music. when I do, I turn it on, music comes out, and I can hear it...

[Chiliarches]

Originally Posted by McGuyDLF

I just upgraded from a c47 to a c2500 - broke even on it as I sold the c47 for what I paid for the c2500 - $2600. It was a steal, I can't find another C2500 for that price anywhere. Phono stage is dead on perfect. I do have "upgraded" tubes in the phone end. Love it. As for the DAC issue, I'm a vinyl guy, rarely if ever listen to digital music. when I do, I turn it on, music comes out, and I can hear it...

You’re the second guy I’ve met who bought a C2500 for $2500-3000...I’d definitely pay that.

[MainAnalog]

I had a Benchmark DAC and thought it was superior to the Macintosh DAC so went for the C22. I also think D to A is more of a Benchmark engineering skill than the McIntosh skill. Regardless the phono section of the C22 was a nice upgrade from my PS Audio phono preamp. C22 to my ears is wonderful. I haven't heard a C22 to C2x00 review but would like to hear someone's long term trial opinion.