McIntosh Preamp Bass Tone Knob - Frequency Range

[aa1268]

Hi all,

I'm eyeing a new McIntosh tube preamp, but set on using multiple subs in my 2-channel rig. Because McIntosh doesn't employ high-pass filtering, does anyone know which part of the frequency range / band their "bass tone control" affects? I'm not sure if they vary from preamp to preamp, but if so and to be specific, I'm looking at the new C8.

Reason I ask is that I'd love a setup that allows me to lower the bass from ~80Hz and under, allowing me to reduce bass from the mains and run an EQ'd multiple subwoofer setup. I don't want it impacting much higher than 80Hz (for obvious reasons). I know the MA12000 integrated gives me much greater flexibility and this is also a tempting option, but the generic "bass tone control" on standalone Mac tube preamps don't specify the frequency impact.

 

[TSmith8605]

Hi all,

I'm eyeing a new McIntosh tube preamp, but set on using multiple subs in my 2-channel rig. Because McIntosh doesn't employ high-pass filtering, does anyone know which part of the frequency range / band their "bass tone control" affects? I'm not sure if they vary from preamp to preamp, but if so and to be specific, I'm looking at the new C8.

Reason I ask is that I'd love a setup that allows me to lower the bass from ~80Hz and under, allowing me to reduce bass from the mains and run an EQ'd multiple subwoofer setup. I don't want it impacting much higher than 80Hz (for obvious reasons). I know the MA12000 integrated gives me much greater flexibility and this is also a tempting option, but the generic "bass tone control" on standalone Mac tube preamps don't specify the frequency impact.

Welcome to the forum.

A bass control can be used like this. The bass control affects all of the preamp outputs (except the fixed / tape out which cannot be used for the amp or sub amp) so if you turn down the bass on the main speakers, you'll also turn down the bass on the subs (even more). You need a proper electronic crossover between your preamp and your amp / sub amp(s).

But to answer your question, McIntosh usually publishes tone control operating curves in their operator's manuals. You can (likely) download a copy of the owner's manual for the specific preamp. If the preamp is current, you can download from McIntosh's website. If you're looking for an older preamp, you might find the operator's manual here:
http://www.berners.ch/McIntosh/en/Frame_Matrix.htm.

 

[aa1268]

Welcome to the forum.

A bass control can be used like this. The bass control affects all of the preamp outputs (except the fixed / tape out which cannot be used for the amp or sub amp) so if you turn down the bass on the main speakers, you'll also turn down the bass on the subs (even more). You need a proper electronic crossover between your preamp and your amp / sub amp(s).

But to answer your question, McIntosh usually publishes tone control operating curves in their operator's manuals. You can (likely) download a copy of the owner's manual for the specific preamp. If the preamp is current, you can download from McIntosh's website. If you're looking for an older preamp, you might find the operator's manual here:
http://www.berners.ch/McIntosh/en/Frame_Matrix.htm.

Thanks for the reply. Fortunately, these SVS SB16's run pretty hot and I currently run them at -12 db. I'll be able to compensate for the reduced output with no issues.

My biggest concern is that the bass tone control will reduce output above ~80Hz... Worst case, I can spring for the MA12000.

Yeah, I checked the C8 manual before posting and didn't see anything.