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C1100 and C52/C2600 - which one?
Hi All -
I would like to add a preamp to my system. I currently have the PS Audio DAC and like it, so plan to continue to use it. I also have the Marantz 8805A which serves as Surround Processor for movies, and also Pre-amp for 2 channels audio which may not be ideal. So, I would like to add a pre-amp for dedicated analog line stage and am narrowing it down to C1100 and C52/C2600 as I am thinking there are synergies with my MC611s. I am mostly listening on Digital (CDs/SACDs) and am considering adding a music server down the road (Aurender N10). I do not plan to add a TT. From what I read from AA members, the C1100 as Analog Line stage is a fantastic pre-amp and would be better than C52/C2600. However, I would probably not use the Phono capabilities of the C1100, and the C52/C2600 would give me a DAC which would serve as a great back up to my system in case something wrong with my PS Audio DAC. Given the cost difference between the C1100 vs. C52/C2600, and given my needs, I want to get your thoughts on this - would a C1100 be better choice for me even at a higher cost or C52/C2600 would be a better choice, and why? I also lean toward having a Tube pre-amp as I thought it would complement well with solid state amps such as MC611s. I plan to audition these later this year but would like to get you guys input on this. Thank you.
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Amps: Mc611s; Bryston 9BST Speakers: B&W 802D3, HTM1D3, B&W SCMs, 2x REL Carbon Special + Analysis Plus REL SpeakOn cable; Pre-Amp: C2700; Processor: Marantz 8805A Sources: Aurender N20; PSA Directstream DAC; JVC RS2000; Stewart Screen Cabaret with StudioTek 130 G4; Oppo UDP-205; Power & Cables: Taralabs bi-wire; WW XLR Silver Eclipse 8; WW Silver Starlight 7 Coax; Denali 6000T, Shunyata Alpha, Delta and Venom. Last edited by btn2803; 04-03-2019 at 03:42 PM. |
#2
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#3
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Amps: Mc611s; Bryston 9BST Speakers: B&W 802D3, HTM1D3, B&W SCMs, 2x REL Carbon Special + Analysis Plus REL SpeakOn cable; Pre-Amp: C2700; Processor: Marantz 8805A Sources: Aurender N20; PSA Directstream DAC; JVC RS2000; Stewart Screen Cabaret with StudioTek 130 G4; Oppo UDP-205; Power & Cables: Taralabs bi-wire; WW XLR Silver Eclipse 8; WW Silver Starlight 7 Coax; Denali 6000T, Shunyata Alpha, Delta and Venom. |
#4
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If tone controls in some form are important to you, an evaluation of either the C2600 and/or C52 might be worth the effort. Some like/need them. Some don't.
Bob |
#5
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BTN-
Having upgraded to a C 1100 from a C 2500, I can say there is a significant difference. At twice the retail price, you really need to listen to both and ideally with the 601's and your speakers to make your decision. A tube preamp with solid state amps is a great combination but again, it's all in the listen. Bob's comment on tone controls is most noteworthy.
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AKA J2Ordan McIntosh/Legacy/VPI/Bricasti/DIYCable |
#6
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Given your speaker and amp selection, I would go w a stellar preamp. Nothing against the C2500 or C52, but the C1100 is a class above which will allow the rest of your systems potential to shine. Dacs seam to be always changing, so I personally look for components which can have an extended lifespan before upgrading. If cost is an issue, look at used. You typically can get a C1100 for around $8-9k.
http://www.tonepublications.com/revi...-preamplifier/ Last edited by Jdsmoke; 04-03-2019 at 06:40 PM. |
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Thanks Bob and John.
Yes, I plan to audition them all. My dealer carry them so would be able to set these up for a good listening session On tone control capabilities on the C2600/C52, I never had these so am not sure how one can best use them. Do you adjust by ears to your liking, or is there another method? Thanks again. Thanh
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Amps: Mc611s; Bryston 9BST Speakers: B&W 802D3, HTM1D3, B&W SCMs, 2x REL Carbon Special + Analysis Plus REL SpeakOn cable; Pre-Amp: C2700; Processor: Marantz 8805A Sources: Aurender N20; PSA Directstream DAC; JVC RS2000; Stewart Screen Cabaret with StudioTek 130 G4; Oppo UDP-205; Power & Cables: Taralabs bi-wire; WW XLR Silver Eclipse 8; WW Silver Starlight 7 Coax; Denali 6000T, Shunyata Alpha, Delta and Venom. |
#8
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I would go with the C1100. The other two have built in DACs.
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Amps: Mc611s; Bryston 9BST Speakers: B&W 802D3, HTM1D3, B&W SCMs, 2x REL Carbon Special + Analysis Plus REL SpeakOn cable; Pre-Amp: C2700; Processor: Marantz 8805A Sources: Aurender N20; PSA Directstream DAC; JVC RS2000; Stewart Screen Cabaret with StudioTek 130 G4; Oppo UDP-205; Power & Cables: Taralabs bi-wire; WW XLR Silver Eclipse 8; WW Silver Starlight 7 Coax; Denali 6000T, Shunyata Alpha, Delta and Venom. |
#10
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I also went from a C2500 to C1100 and there was a significant difference. The lack of tone controls on the C1100 is the only downside IMHO however I personally rarely used them anyway and think having a separate DAC to the pre amp is more practical (but more costly) longer term.... Good luck with the listening and decision! |
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