Mcintosh MX 119 pre amp ?

[kennyno]

I need a preamp for recently purchased MC240 amp
i wanted to use my perfect MA230 headphone out to run to the 240
but was told by the tech. who fixed my 240 NOT to do this its to much voltage
and will damage my amp? caddy62 told me it would be fine.
So not knowing what way to go I was considering buying a used MX 119
because seller said McIntosh MX119 preamplifier ( $1499 ebay ) is actually a C46 preamp, plus a TM-1 tuner, plus a 24/96 DAC
Any advice will be appreciated very much especially from (caddy62)
Thank You

 

[twiiii]

119 is a sweet pre-amp using the balanced input. The Pure Stereo analog function by passes everything digital and is great sound. The unbalanced analog inputs have great sound, too. I like the precise 1 db steps of the tone controls. I traded my 119 for a 151, which does digital better. But the Pure Stereo modes of both are great, with the 119 being just a touch warmer with a fraction less revealing more enjoyable highs. It ought to match up with a 240 rather well. A 119 sort of reminds me of my C-28 that I used with a 240 275's and 2100's. With a single or two clicks of the HF control on the 119 you can really change the presentation of great recordings. Ever hear recordings where the percussion section of an orchestra sounds to forward or to far away. One click change can move percussion sections forward or backwards a significant distance. The stepped controls on the original C-22 , 28, 29, were to wide. They are difficult to keep clean, too. The MX 119 is a better solution for sure. Its a very quiet pre-amp, too. The only issue I had with the 119 is its susceptible to static electricity, so ground your self before touching the 119 if you have been dragging your feet on carpet. Static electricity can confuse the unit locking up digital functions. You will have to reboot the system to return the 119 to normal operation.

 

[techguy0192]

I'm a purist and would want a unit without the video circuits and any other extra stuff. With that said it's a lot of bang for the buck when you factor in the tuner and DAC. Always try to negotiate lower, within reason. Give it a try and if you don't like it you will likely be able to get back what you have in it or in a worst case take a very minimal hit when reselling it.