MAC3 as a basic stereo preamp

[eedork]

Hey guys -

I notice that the MAC3 surround processor goes for relatively short money. I'm curious to know how well it works as a basic stereo preamp for digital sources. Obviously it has no balance, treble, or bass controls, but as a simple source selector and volume control (with remote) it might work fairly well.

Any thoughts are much appreciated.

Thanks!
-Matt

 

[ron-c]

Yes it will work fine. You will need a remote control of course.

thanks,
Ron-C

 

[eedork]

Hi Ron -

Thanks for the response! I think the MX-130 remote would work with the MAC3, so it sounds like this could be an inexpensive option for an all digital McIntosh pre.

-Matt

 

[ron-c]

Yes that remote will work and you need to turn the front panel remote sensor on with the rear panel switch.

thanks,
Ron-C

 

[eedork]

Hi Ron -

Are the DACs in the MAC3 fairly decent? I would be connecting a squeezebox classic to it (among other things) and am curious to know if the DAC in the MAC3 would be better than the DAC in the squeezebox or a typical CD player.

Thanks for your responses!

-Matt

 

[ron-c]

The MAC-3 has very good sound quality. I have not used one for a while but it should be an upgrade on most servers. Let us know how it works for you.

Thanks,
Ron-C

 

[silverface80]

The MAC-3 has very good sound quality. I have not used one for a while but it should be an upgrade on most servers. Let us know how it works for you.

Thanks,
Ron-C

just got the MAC to work with my power amp and pre, the result is transformational....given all my cd players are under $2-300, it is a real bargain to upgrade all your transports / players with digital output

excellent detail and bass....it has so much detail it might sound "dry" / digital without a mac pre, but it is very nice nevertheless