• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Upgraded to C2300

J

joelz

New Member
I installed a McIntosh C2300 tube pre-amp. So the output of my classe proc which was going to my amps now goes to the C2300. Then the C2300 goes to my amps. HT bypass is not on.

I didn't notice much of an improvement over using just the Classe as 2 channel, if any at all. The only substantial difference was I can add more bass :thmbsp:

Is this expected?

I have a C500 (tubes) on order as an upgrade to the C2300. Will I hear a difference with that preamp? If so, what areas will be better?

My gear:
Marantz DV9500 digital out to classe
Classe SSP-600
McIntosh C2300
McIntosh MC501's
Wilson Sophia 2's
 
Register to hide this ad
I thought that the beauty of the C2300 is that it is totally transparent, and does not add any coloration to the audio signal. Therefore, I would expect it to neither improve or degrade the sound of a source that was previously hooked straight into the amp however give you some options in terms of adding some equalization, hooking a phono up, and line level control as well as switching multiple sources and adding extra amps. I'm sure you could fuss with different tubes and get some coloration there.
 
I just replaced my 2300 with a C500 (transistor) over the weekend the difference is astonishing. Soundsatge, clarity, the overall sensation of being able to listen every single note, when the singer open his mouth to start singing, all those details, the C500 is an impressive piece of high end audio, no doubt about it.
 
AlbertoA said:
I just replaced my 2300 with a C500 (transistor) over the weekend the difference is astonishing. Soundsatge, clarity, the overall sensation of being able to listen every single note, when the singer open his mouth to start singing, all those details, the C500 is an impressive piece of high end audio, no doubt about it.
Click to expand...

Sounds very promising! I can't wait until the C500 comes in on order :thmbsp:

So how do you have your source hooked up to it? Are you doing the HT bypass setup as well or?

Thanks!
 
Yes. I use the C500 for CD and server (MS750) stereo listening
When I watch movies or listen to M.Ch SACD or DVD Audio I use the internal processing of my Oppo and feed 5.1 analog inputs of the MX136. The whole thing works like a charm. :music:
 
Joelz,

You need to plug everything stereo (CD, Phono, SACD, tape) directly to the 2300. The only signal that should go through both the classe and on to the Mac would be Home theater or Multi-Channel sound on Passthu mode. Otherwise you have cluttered your signal path and not really gotten the benifit of a dedicated 2-channel pre-amp.
 
Bundy said:
Joelz,

You need to plug everything stereo (CD, Phono, SACD, tape) directly to the 2300. The only signal that should go through both the classe and on to the Mac would be Home theater or Multi-Channel sound on Passthu mode. Otherwise you have cluttered your signal path and not really gotten the benifit of a dedicated 2-channel pre-amp.
Click to expand...

:yes:
 
Bundy said:
Joelz,

You need to plug everything stereo (CD, Phono, SACD, tape) directly to the 2300. The only signal that should go through both the classe and on to the Mac would be Home theater or Multi-Channel sound on Passthu mode. Otherwise you have cluttered your signal path and not really gotten the benifit of a dedicated 2-channel pre-amp.
Click to expand...

The Mac dealer instructed me wrong on how to hook it up, no wonder I can't tell much difference!

Thank you very much for responding!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom