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2105/C28 vs. 2205/C32

bobforapples

Angular banjos sound good
I'm planning out my first McIntosh system. And I can use some more help.

I have it narrowed down to two different duets:

2105/C28 vs. 2205/C32

Prices are close enough that it's not an issue. Both sets are near mint, and work flawlessly.

Which would you pick?
 
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bobforapples.......I echo Greg's advice. The MC2205 power amp with the C32 preamp would be my choice among the two choices. You will be pleased with this McIntosh combination.
 
This is a pretty simple question.

Go with the C32 and MC2205, they are newer and more power. If they are in the same condition this is a win win with the C32/MC2205.
 
I prefer my C32 over my C28. It has more features, has an amp to drive a set of monitor speakers, and better phono stage to start with. However, the C28 has a tape head input and center channel (albeit mono) output if that matters to you. Either way, though, you can't go wrong. :thmbsp:
 
My second Mac system was MC2105/C28, big imprvement from my previous MA5100, now I have dual MC2205/C29, the 2205/32 would be my only choice, whatever that you get,an update will be required to restore the original performance.

Aside from the power difference the 2205 is a better sounding amp than the first generation SS 2105.

Vahe
 
Echoing all previous comments. I have both of these combos and you cant go wrong with either one, but if they are priced the same then there is really no question at all, go with the 2205/32. The 32 also has the nice equalizer feature if you are into that, which I am.
 
Thanks everyone!

I'm going to audition both sets next week and make my decision, there's also a MCD 7009 on the horizon :yes:
 
Yup! C32 + MC2205 .... thats the combo!

I have the MC2205 and its been a great performer. Ample power for my ML1C's.

But I did mode the knobs to look and match the older equipments (MX113) though. Sorry, "a vintage hybrid" ....

Cheers!
 
bobforapples.......A MCD7009 would be a very nice addition to the C32/MC2205 combo. The MCD7009 has the famed Teac transport, too. A very nice CD player. This seems like the exact system I had recommended last week, and thought it could be assembled for $3k, or there about. This would definately be a nice three piece system.
 
Once again, thanks for the help everyone!

I'm more partial to the looks of the 2105/28 over the 2205/32.

Aside from the wattage difference: 105WPC vs. 200wpc. (or 2155 150wpc), what else should I consider?
 
I'm more partial to the looks of the 2105/28 over the 2205/32.
Aside from the wattage difference: 105WPC vs. 200wpc. (or 2155 150wpc), what else should I consider?

2205 looks just as nice as the 2105 once you remove those silly plastic frames (bazel) that are glued to the glass around the meters, that is what I did when I switched from 2105 to 2205.
And, 2205's sound better than the first generation SS amp. Power was not the issue for me as I was never able to go above 20 W per channel due to high sensitivity of my speakers.

Vahe
 
I didn't know thoose bezels are just glued to the glass, that's good news. Do you have any pictures of the 2205 sans bezel?
 
Sorry for budding in. The one on my 2125 wasn't glued, double-sticky type tape. Mine actually fell off over the years. Tried putting it back on with standard double sticky, but wouldn't stay. I left it off. Looks more modern, but doesn't match my MR-78 anymore. Torn between on or off :tears:
I do have a picture sans bezel:

21.jpg
 
Sorry for budding in. The one on my 2125 wasn't glued, double-sticky type tape. Mine actually fell off over the years. Tried putting it back on with standard double sticky, but wouldn't stay. I left it off. Looks more modern, but doesn't match my MR-78 anymore. Torn between on or off :tears:
I do have a picture sans bezel:

21.jpg

MJSNet.......Looks better off. Sweet pieces. :yes:
 
The one on my 2125 wasn't glued, double-sticky type tape. Mine actually fell off over the years.

Its been a while since I removed mine, so I do not remember if it was a tape, glue or any other form of adhesive, but what I do remember was the improvement in the appearance of the unit without those frames, it looked like a new model, 20 years newer than the old fashion look of the original 2205.
Vahe
 
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