I've owned McIntosh for some 30 years and there are two who recently have acquired pieces. Just curious who else runs McIntosh equipment and what components?

Does Dreaming of owning a Mc component for the last 8 years count?

:D

Brian:

System 1: MC 2255, C 32, MR 75, MCD 7010

System 2: MA 6200, MAC 1900 ( tuner section )

For what's it's worth:

System 3: Fisher 500C

In the wings and waiting:

Marantz 2270, 2238B, 115B

Harman Kardon 730

atugue

I own a McIntosh MCD 7007 cd player, and am satisfied with it rugged looks, and the quality of sound. I also owned a 2105 amp (I called it the miniMac) and I dearly miss this audio equipment (sold it years ago for Jeep buildup).

Atuque, you did not tell me you also had a 500C. Pull the 1900 and go from the tape out of the 500 to the 6200 and give a listen.

Own 2 pre-amps C-28 and C-26. Some of the best sounding out there.

g

MAC1700 here, and my crystal ball tells me that Mc monoblocks are in my future :)

Brian:

I never thought of using the 500C with the MA 6200.

However, pulling the Fisher out is no easy task; it's in one of those places where once it's in you don't want to take it out.

You're balancing the Fisher with one hand, holding all the cables with the other, and the screwdriver is between your teeth.

And by the way

What ever happened to the MC 2505 that Grumpy was rebuilding?

atuque

The 2205 I am messing around with is still sitting waiting for a Preamp to mate with it. Not to mention a Tuner and a pair of speakers. I am still trying to figure out if I even wanna keep it or send it to a new loving home.

grumpy

Grumpy:

Just a thought; why not a McIntosh MX 113 tuner / preamp

My brother uses one with his MC 2125.

I would like to own one also.

It would solve the tuner - preamp problem.


atuque

atuque

The 113 is exactly what I was looking at. I was not a happy camper when one sold cheaply in my neck of the woods on Ebay and I missed it. No funds can do that to you. Right now I have too many systems so the Mac has taken a back seat. I like the 2205 allot. Is it the be all end all amp for me ? I doubt it and am weighting buying a SS tuner/amp to pair with it. What I would really like is a Musical Fidelity Amp and a Pair of Rogers speakers. I just dont have the room anymore for a 100 pound amp. Once my kids are gone then I can go for some Patricians and a nice fisher X1000 again ;)

Grumpy

Grumpy,

I just read that you might be thinking about selling your 2205. If you get a chance, e-mail me with the price you have in mind. I also have a few vintage pieces that I would trade. BTW, I tried to e-mail you, but couldn't get through.

Thanks,
Pat

I have been running a Mac/1900 through a pair of Altec Valencia Home version of the VOT speakers for 29 years & counting.

Before that I had a Fisher

Still dreaming of Mac separates though, and probably always will.

Happy Listening!

~Shadow~

Pat

I am still deciding what I wish to do with the Mac. Once i make up my mind I will shoot you an Email. I dont know why you could not Email me as I receive lots of Email from the board. Try this address

imgrumpyerr@comcast.net

Or just click on my profile and send an Email through there.

Grumpy

Actually, a pretty good representation of the margue. Interesting to see that the most numerous is the C28 and 1900 with 2 each.
Let's see by type:
MC250 and MC2105 (mine)
MC2205
MC2255
So by type it looks like the power amps win.

2 receivers
3 preamps
2 tuners
1 tuner/preamp
1 integrated
2 cd players
I seem to be the only 1 running a tube unit.

That's a rather good representation and better than I'd thought the result would be.

Also, interesting to note that 2 of us have Fisher 500-Cs in 3rd level systems, just behind McIntosh. How many others use 500-C/800s in either main, 2nd or 3rd systems?

If I ever get my 500-c up and running again, it will be right next to the G-22000, so I guess depending on which unit is on it is my first or second system. Though when in the bedroom, then the SX-750 is the first system as it usually does all the "dirty" work:smsex:

A friend of mine swears by his Mac, but I have always used MS Windows without any problem. :D

Mac is the computer Mc is the audio company. It is confusing for those who can not spell McIntosh and MacIntosh. Thatch, your'e the first person I've heard from who has not had problems with MS Windows. See, never too old to experience something new.

Last night I went to the Royal York Hotel for a dinner hosted by the Director-General of Taiwan. As I stood in the foray amongst a small crowd, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles walked by close enough to touch (no, I didn't).

2 equally interesting experiences in 2 days.

Wow Brian think Thatch's attempt at humour went over your head. I'm pretty certain that Mr. Thatcher knows exactly what Mc was referred to in this thread.

Mike

I understood, I am only pullg his chain :). Well, all except seeing the Queen, that's true.

Sorry then Brian.....me bad!!

Actually Windows does give me problems, but I let the lady of the house fix it.
The only queens I have met weren't royalty. :D

MR71 tube tuner here. It's a beaut

Very Nice:)

The 71 looks almost new. Couple it with a C22, MC225 and a nice set of K'horns of Paragon. Now, that would be a rather nice 2nd system :).

I just picked up a MA-5100 a week ago, and I think I am now a McIntosh convert. The sound is just so.... so.... nice! It doesn't seem to be colored, and it makes my KEF reference 102.2s sing. Nothing stands out when I play cds, it is just all there. The detail is amazing. Its not the best imaging amp, but its just so musical, I can overlook that!
Ben

Missed this thread the first time around as I was the proud owner of CRAP back then.

NOW:

C28 pre (with speaker relay) with (1) MC2205. I let you all know when I get the second.

On my easy listening system I use a Mac 1700 tube/ss hybrid receiver with a pair of Altec 604-8G coax studio monitors for a load, what a great combo!! Just wish I could turn it up past 10:00 and be in the same room!! I also use a C27 for my separates. :)

Here's my updates:

System 1:
MC2105 amp
C28 Preamp
MR67 Tuner
Altec A7 "Voice of the Theatre" speakers
Rega Planet CD player
Music Hall MMF-5 turntable

System 2:
MAC1900 receiver with ML-1C speakers

and,
The elusive A129 monoblock amp, currently in the rough :)

I have a MC240 and a C-20. Both pieces are great!

I have these two babes in my main system and believe me it s unbelievable:D

Dom.

Drove 100 miles after the guy tells me about it, hoping he doesn't discover eBay in the meantime. They're covered in grime, but he informs me he is firm on 250 for the MX-110 and an MC-250 (turns out is blown up). Says he's been on the computer and has discovered they're worth money... Grrrrr....

Paid him the 250. Best audio money I ever spent. The thing that really sets the 110 apart, in my mind, is the excellent tone control circuits and phono preamp section. Great tuner, too.

I'm going to have to be pretty hard up before I consider selling it. The 250 is gone.

Interesting fact- In my '66 Allied catalog, the Marantz separates went for more money than the Mac.

Lee

Shame you blew off the MC250. These are generally easy to fix having very straight forward and simple (compared to later designs) circuits. The 110/250 combo gives excellent sound and I like the 250 better than the 240 and 275 and only a little less than my 2105. I know it does not have glass front, meters or blue lights but that chrome & black grows on you after awhile.

Actually, I still have my fingers on the 250. Gave it to a tech friend for 100 but he hasn't paid me yet(!)

It's a good thought to hang on to it, it would be the biggest amp I have. I could use it to blast the VOT's over to Wisconsin....

Lee

I'd still be using mine as my main amp if if did not get the Bozak Symonphys. It ran everything I ever had beautifully. With the Bozaks, it seemed I needed just a tad more jouce to get them to open up. On the VOTTs it would do a wonderful job.

Originally posted by ronflugelguy
I have a MC240 and a C-20. Both pieces are great!

I run them into PSB Stratus Gold i's. Say they need 150 watt per channel, but at 40pch, the MC240 does fine!!!!!!!

I have a pair of Mac 30's and a C-20. Nice old-time sound!

Nice set up Steve. I seem to remember seeing that system in a Stereophile interview with you. Is that an old Dual or Miracord 'table? I seem to recall you owning a Marantz 8b too. I sadly let mine go. Wish I had it back. :(

Originally posted by CELT
Nice set up Steve. I seem to remember seeing that system in a Stereophile interview with you. Is that an old Dual or Miracord 'table? I seem to recall you owning a Marantz 8b too. I sadly let mine go. Wish I had it back. :(

On the left is a Miracord table which I use for playing 78's and old 45's mostly.

Under that is a Marantz 7C, a modern LA Audio MM phono preamp from Denmark (sounds perfect for 78's) and my 1960 Marantz 8B. On the right side is a 1965 Marantz 10B, two 1960 McIntosh MC-30's with consec. serial numbers and a "first press" McIntosh C-20.

The speakers are 1960's British Tannoy 15" dual concentric Golds in Lancaster cabinets.

I can switch the Mac and Marantz systems on with a switcher. Both have their good points!

Ah! I see it hiding in its cage now! ;) Very cool. While I have your ear, or eyes as it were, I wanted to thank you for restoring and properly remastering some timeless music. I have dozens of CD's that you did for MCA and your DCC label. The one that always gives me goosebumps is "True Love Ways" from the MCA Buddy Holly disc. I use it for auditioning equipment and showing off my system.

Thanks, CELT.

I appreciate it.

I'm on my second piece of McIntosh equipment, an MC-402 stereo amp, which replaced an MC-202.

I hope to use McIntosh amps forever! I'm hanging out here to hopefully learn about some of the better vintage stuff, as all my experience has been with the modern gear.

Living Room
System 1 - MC2300, C32, MR78, ML2D, Denon DCM420 , Dual 1219
Spare BR
System 2 - MX110, MC250, Bozak Colonials, Denon DCM460
Master BR
System 3 - Scott 299c, Scott 350, NSM CD, AR3A
Shop
System 4 - Kenwood KR9600, ADS CD3, Bozak LS300

If I ever get to it I will repair my MCD7000 and put it on system 2
I will omit the Home Theater in the den - It's my wifes domain...

Great to have you aboard Terry. Thanks for taking me up on the invite. I'm sure you have forgotten more about McIntosh gear than I have ever known.

Welcome to Audiokarma :beerchug:

Terry Welcome aboard

Thats some mighty fine gear you got. Let me ask you what do you think of the LS300 Bozaks ?

Grumpy

Have been doing Audio Repairs since 1962, still just a hobby and a way to finance my other hobbys, it paid for a new engine in my 35 Ford Woody. I gladly answer repair questions by email, get several a day.

Looks like a fine forum, a lot better than some of the news groups I scan daily.

Ahh yes, the LS300 Bozaks are my work horses in the shop, used to be in the main system until I got the ML2D's. They sound good but the 150W max gets hit to often and I have run out of spare B-800B drivers. They are sensitive to what amplifier drives them, some of the direct coupled amps sound rather hard, the autoformer Mc amps all sound very sweet on them.

I have a mc-2505 amp that I've had for almost a year, but have yet to hear it play. Still working on various problems on it. I want to make sure left and right channel readings are the same before I power it on. It's been out on my workbench for about a month now. Hard to find a sustained period of time to work on it.

Realized I asked the original question but, never gave my inventory:

Main system:
McIntosh MC2105 poweramp, C28 prepam and MR77 tuner with Bozak Symphony speakers, Thorens TD125 turntable & TP 16 II arm.

Second System:
McIntosh MX110 tube tuner/preamp, MC250 power amp, Thorens TD160c turntable and Bozak 302a speakers.

Alternative system:
Sherwood S5000II integrated amp and Sherwood S3000IV tuner with a set of the 10" masonite ringed woofer The Advent Loudspeaker.

Another:
Philips 6731 tuner, 5721 preamp and 5781 poweer amp witn N5606 reel to reel coupled with an Empire 598III turntable and also run on the Bozak Symphonys.

And another:
H-K 630 with a set of The Smaller Advents and Klipsch Heresy IIs (not at the same time).

I own two MC-30s, which I use to power my 1977 Klipsch Cornwalls. I've had them for about two years -- I picked them up for a song at an estate sale and have been hooked by the vintage tube sound ever since.

I love these amps and will never part with them.

And if I'm ever in a Mono Vinyl Mood, I power up my Dynaco ST-70, flip the switch to mono, pour a martini, and pop on some Sinatra LPs. Ooh yeah.

I use 2 MC60's, 1 MC2100, and a MX110 in my main rig. I also use
another MX110, and a MX112 in other setups. Sitting not used
2-MC2100, MC2125, MX112, and a 1900. I should sell some.
Carl

Hi Carl, that is so cool!!!!!!!!!!:)

Thanks ronflugelguy! I forgot I have a MQ101 and a working partser MX110 out in the garage somewhere too. Geez!

Let me know if you want to part with the MQ101.....my ML-1Cs could use it :)

Hi Kam, I will find it, bring it up on my variac and if it still works perfect, it should, I'll pm to you if you like. It does have some
bubbling on the ends of the glass. I have a manual photocopy
and wood case for it. That piece REALLY looks cool in the dark!

Carl

Sounds cool to me, let me know!

I myself have a MC-225 that I am repairing now after it developed a funny noise. I also have a MR67 tuner. my main amp is a home brew/semi mcintosh...It uses the front end of a MC 230 power amp section, as well as the output transformers. the B= is upped to 610 volts or so, and the 7591 are replaced by KT 88s, or 6550/KT90. The front end and the screens of the power tubes are regulated using a 6L6, 1/2 of a 12ax7a and a zener.
The recipe for this amp was published in glass audio in 1990.
It is a dynamite amp. Other non mcintosh tid bits include dyna st-70s (2) one welbourne modified, the other has triode ned's board.
several dyna pas 3 pre amps, with AVA super pas lll rebuild kits, JM labs micron clones, Aria 5s, and main system is a set of Altec A-7 with 902/511 on top, 515 8gs (or 416 8C) on bottom. I usually run the 515s, but while being reconed I have enjoyed the 416 8Cs. Also have 3 dynaco FM 3s, which I really like as well as the MR 67.

Russellc

I use a McIntosh 240 with Magnapan 1.5 speakers (and Hsu Research powered subwoofer). McIntosh tube (KT66 instead of stock 6L6GC) plus Maggie's is a hard combination to beat, in my view. I can really explore a composition, hear each part, discover something of the composer's intentions, perhaps.

It is cool to see so much vintage Mc out there!
Thats what keeps the re-sale up.

I have a few Mc units at home my self.

To refer back 20 posts or so, I used to use a MC240 and a Fisher 500c to bi-amp, back in the day.

Wow chuck! That's sounds interesting!!!!!!!!!!:cool:

Glad to have you on the forums! :)

When you get a moment, can you give me a little input on this thread? I think you might find it interesting.

http://audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?postid=68759#post68759

Thanks in advance!

Originally posted by Steve Hoffman
and a "first press" McIntosh C-20.


Hi,

I have one of those! ;)

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by Jeffrey
Hi,

I have one of those! ;)

-Jeffrey

And also a later press of a C-20, right Jeffery???;)

Originally posted by ronflugelguy
And also a later press of a C-20, right Jeffery???;)

Hi Ron,

I was actually referencing the exact unit. SH will know what i mean. :)

I have two first press C-20's, a C-22, an MC-240, and an MR-66. Me thinks i've seen pictures of three of my pieces on this site though i haven't actually posted any.............. it really is a small world! :D

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by Jeffrey
Hi Ron,

I was actually referencing the exact unit. SH will know what i mean. :)

I have two first press C-20's, a C-22, an MC-240, and an MR-66. Me thinks i've seen pictures of three of my pieces on this site though i haven't actually posted any.............. it really is a small world! :D

-Jeffrey

Hi jeffery, so both your C-20's are early models?:dunno:

Originally posted by ronflugelguy
Hi jeffery, so both your C-20's are early models?:dunno:

Hi Ron,

Yesiree, here's why......... i scored the C-20 in SH's earlier pic on this thread from him about a year ago. Just as he said at the time, it's an AWESOME sounding unit. My boss/wife gave my hell b/c it was parked in our livingroom wo/ a case so i scored another identical unit to strip the case. I've yet to peddle the other C-20. Here's a pic of the C-20 w/ my 240 (looks alot like the one in the Audiokarma header pic, doesn't it? :) ).

Hope ya hadda great labor day,
Jeffrey

I try to hide all of the wiring, gives the cats less to play with.

MC 2105
C 28
MR 74
Technics SL 1100 A
Nakamichi 600 cassette deck
a pair of ESS AMT 3 Rock Monitors

I have owned this system since the 70's. It serves me well! The speakers which I had reconed several years back may have to go, they don't quite fit in with my wife's idea of decor! Anyone had this problem to deal with? Any pointers???

Gary K

Well, for the moment I only run McIntosh in my car:

MC431 (4x100) and MC427 (2 x100) bridged for the sub

My (very) humble collection:
MR-67 tuner
MA-6200 integrated amp
MCD-7005 cd player

However, no one here seems to supersede someone I know and correspond with in Idaho, who has ALL of the following:

Tuners:
MR67
MR71
MR78

Preamps
C22-II Commerative
C26
C32

Amps
MC30 (2)
MC40 (2)
MC240 (5)
MC275
MC2000 Commerative
MC2300
MC2550

Now THAT is a collection! I am envious. I've sent him a link to this group ... maybe he'll join.

The only piece of McIntosh I still have is the C-33. I use this in the main living room for the surround ......... if one can call 2 KLH 6 speakers driven by a 60 watt Cyrus II "surround" I bought the C-33 years ago and really don't know where to put it. I use a Bedini 100 watt class A driven by a Conrad Johnson PV-5 preamp for serious listening with ADS 780'S ...... Some day I hope to get the Quads fixed prolly cheaper to buy used K-horns and go back to the Tube Leak amp...............The only Mac I truely regret letting go was the 110

That's more McIntosh equipment than the store had where I bought my stuff in the 70's...

He sent me pictures too.
Beautiful.

He is planning to downsize his system now that his kids have finished school. I'd like to be at that garage sale!

Really, me too! Can you post or email the pictures? I'm at toys4me@aol.com

I have owned McIntosh along with several other systems for 23 years.
Recently I purchased a new C2102 Tube Amp/ MC2200 Tube Pre Amp and MCD205 CD Player.
I run this gear through a SurgeX line conditioner into a pair of Klipsch LaScalas.
The reproduction of Jazz is wonderful even at 1/10 of 1 watt!
I may add a turntable, maybe Clear Audio, Basis or Oracle and I am thinking of an Otari MX5050BIII Reel to Reel.
There is just something about Mac!!!!!!!

Greg

I have a C-28, MR-74 and MC-2105 which is driving a pair of NHT 2.5i's. Oh, and a Kenwood ???? Cd player.

I would like to add a turntable and am thinking of the Music Hall MMF-5.

Am also thinking of putting together another system consisting of a MA-5100 and a MR-71 which will drive a pair of NHT SB-2's I have laying around.

Good Site! Here's my bit of gear

MX-112 Tuner/Pre
MR-78 Tuner
MC-250 (x2) I switch them in and out of the system as mono's.
MC-754
MC-240 The latest purchase - currently in the system.
C-35 pre
C-40 pre This is the best piece I own next to the MR-78. It is currently in the use with the 240. Wonderful combination!!

Other bits..
Arcam FMJ CD-23
Systemdek IIX table / SME 3009 arm / Grado Sonato Cartridge.
ESS AMT-1B speakers - Recently upgraded to 1-D specs with new X-overs and Kapton diaphragms for the Heil tweeters.

If you want to really hear what an MC-240 can do on the high end feed the output to a pr. of Heil tweeters.!!!
The 112 and one 250 have been in my family since they were new in 1970. They were left to me three years ago and I carried on from there. The turntable and speakers I've had since new in the late 70's.

Welcome to AudioKarma guys! Do feel free to post pics.:D
Still waiting on ronflugelguy's;)
Carl

Carl, gotta get a Digi Camera, then I'll post my pics....:)

MX110 pre and MC240 amp.

Yummy stuff!

Originally posted by GaryP
MX110 pre and MC240 amp.

Yummy stuff!

Hey Gary! Is that you?:)

I've been a McIntosh buff forever, but bought my first Mac only 3 years ago, that being the beautiful MC7200. I feel it's about one of the most beautiful McIntosh amplifiers ever produced, with it's classic blue power meters (I like its straight line markings as opposed to the more familiar curved line markings on most other Mac power meters) and half glass/half aluminum faceplate. It may have not had the patented McIntosh Autoformers, but it was still by far the best sounding amp I ever owned up to that point, making beautiful music via 300 watts per channel through my Magnepan MGLR1 planars.

Also borrowed my brother's MC2100 for a short time this year; a truely magnificent classic amp with loads of power. It was a bit overkill for my current super-efficient Klipsch Cornwall horn speakers (98.5dB @ 1W/1M), but then again I had loads of extended headroom to play with when I would feel the urge to blast my favorite pipe organ CDs to near live levels (90dB+).

But my favorite Mac still remains my trusted MC250. It's an amazing vintage amp that has a tube-like warmth along with a beefy SS punch...it's the closest to a vacuum tube sound in a transistorized amplifier that I've ever heard, IMO. Plus I love its vintage shiney chrome and black chassis...a very unique appearence in the classic McIntosh tradition! Along with its exposed caps and transformers, it's very tube-like visually as well. What's not to love about the MC250?

See my links in my sig for pictures...

My Cornwalls are LOUD...my McIntosh allow them to be!

Hey Jim.

I'm another Gary P. who owns an MC240 and MX110. Small world.

I have lots of other vintage gear but those are my macs.

As another Mc nut I want to welcome all of you guys.

Thanks for the welcome. There are a bunch of us from the Klipsch forum who are coming over to say hello. I hope we can contribute to your forum. Seems like a good bunch and you can never talk too much about vintage audio.
:D

I just noticed that u bypassed using a dedicated preamp,,,how do you like that setup and the CD player?

Thanks for the warm welcome into McLand!

Gary, small world indeed. Look what m00n did to us. We have no life as it is right now on the Klipsch forums; now we have to start browsing another forum to get our "fix"! Wait till we mosey on over to Tube Audio and bother DeanG with our useless tube knowledge.

Ol' Dean can't ditch us all that easily! :no:

Welcome Guys! Beautiful pics Jim!

Carl

Hey the more the merrier. Lots of nice folks over that the Klipch forum. Steve P is already a member here.

Biggest mistake i ever made was selling my Khorns :( Them paired with my 2205 was pure heaven to me.

Originally posted by grumpy
Biggest mistake i ever made was selling my Khorns :( Them paired with my 2205 was pure heaven to me.

Hey Grumpy,

Selling your 240/C22 combo wasn't your wisest decision. :)

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by WhiteSE
I just noticed that u bypassed using a dedicated preamp,,,how do you like that setup and the CD player?

This picture was the day I brought my MC7200 home! Ah, memories...

As you can see, I used to own a preamp (last pre was an AMC CVT 1030s vacuum tube preamp; before that a Carver C-4000, my first being a Carver C-1). To make a long story short...lost my job and went bankrupt...sold everything except the Klipsch! My brother gave me his AMC CD8b when he bought himself a new SACD player after I nearly stole the MC250 from a seller on eBay ($285)! The CD8b is a fine 24/96 player for only $199, but there are obviously better machines out there.

Frankly, I like the sound with this present combination (and sounds more robust than both the Carver preamps IMO, and I'm a vintage Carver fan). But I'm told I'm lacking dynamics and depth by not using a high quality line stage pre, and I remembered how detailed my system sounded with the entry-level AMC tube preamp, so I'm waiting for the opportunity to own a 6SN7 SRPP line stage pre with tube rectification...should be an interesting matchup with my SS MC250! Only time will tell...

PS - thanks, Carl.

Hi All,
This is my first post on this wonderful forum. Very informative. I am currently using a C-26 preamp, a Mc-2100 amp, a Rega Planet cd player and a pair of Khorns that I built. My bedroom system consists of a Mac 1700 and a pair of vintage Cerwin vega 211r's. My HT consists of a Sony str-de915, a sony dvp-s3000 dvd,a sony slv-900hf and 5 klipsch heresy's(upgrading HT soon).I have been a McIntosh/Klipsch fan for many years.
It's nice to see a few guys from the Klipsch forum here. Also an informative site. I just wanted to chime in to say"HI". Looking forward to meeting a new family.

Darrell

Well, those collector values can make whore out of you, I offed my MC240 because it was woth so much, and I have managed to scrounge a few more MAC peices scince then.....:-)

Originally posted by jt1stcav
This picture was the day I brought my MC7200 home! Ah, memories...

As you can see, I used to own a preamp (last pre was an AMC CVT 1030s vacuum tube preamp; before that a Carver C-4000, my first being a Carver C-1). To make a long story short...lost my job and went bankrupt...sold everything except the Klipsch! My brother gave me his AMC CD8b when he bought himself a new SACD player after I nearly stole the MC250 from a seller on eBay ($285)! The CD8b is a fine 24/96 player for only $199, but there are obviously better machines out there.

Frankly, I like the sound with this present combination (and sounds more robust than both the Carver preamps IMO, and I'm a vintage Carver fan). But I'm told I'm lacking dynamics and depth by not using a high quality line stage pre, and I remembered how detailed my system sounded with the entry-level AMC tube preamp, so I'm waiting for the opportunity to own a 6SN7 SRPP line stage pre with tube rectification...should be an interesting matchup with my SS MC250! Only time will tell...

PS - thanks, Carl.

I dont mean to butt in your system, but you may wanna look into a Berning TF-10 tubed preamp,,,I have one and I am so impressed by it....they go for around 600 bucks,,,and all the techs I asked about upgrading some internals, were extremely impressed when they looked at the schematics online..they loved the power supply,,,,and it just sounds very strong.

Hi Jeff

I do regret selling both pieces but in all honesty I loved the sound of Khorns and Mc solid state. Not to mention less Maint. ;)

Grumpy

Originally posted by grumpy
Hi Jeff

I do regret selling both pieces but in all honesty I loved the sound of Khorns and Mc solid state. Not to mention less Maint. ;)

Grumpy

Hi Grumpy,

Hear ya on the maintenance....... :yes: .... and i know many many people luv the Khorn/Mac SS combo.

-Jeffrey

Now,,How many have McIntosh-JBL combo? I will soon!

What a good question;)
I ll like to connect nice JBL studio Monitor on my Mc 7300
All suggestions are welcome:cool:

Dom.

I will have probably a MC250 (cant wait to save enough for a MC2100) to my JBL L-96's via a Berning TF-10...boy, what a combo that will be I think,,,

If any of you live near Atlanta, u will be welcome to listen/

Close. My downstairs system has MC240/MX110 and Altec Santiagos (recent acquisition). Upstairs is a HH Scott 299b and Klipsch Cornwalls.

I can speak for the MC240 / Altec Voice of the Theater combination. It is truely heart warming and soul fulfilling. I could listen to that system for hours, and do. Next is to get my Rega into that system, but need a phono pre first.

IS the damping rating of the Mc240 good to drive the JBL L96?

Originally posted by WhiteSE
IS the damping rating of the Mc240 good to drive the JBL L96?

At a sensitivity of 89dB, they won't rock your house, but will still sound really nice. You will notice the most change in how your bass and mid bass change...for the better.

..."but you may wanna look into a Berning TF-10 tubed preamp..."

Thanks WhiteSE...I read an archived review in Stereophile.com on the TF-10; very impressive indeed! Wish I had bought that instead of the CVT 1030s when I had all my equipment (not in the photo was a massive Denon DP-62L 'table with a Sumiko Blue Point MC cartridge on a Denon PCL-67 low mass tonearm). The phono stages alone on the Berning would've been worth it!

C20 in main system
ESS AMT1T bi amped St70 top B&K st140 bottom ESS x-over

MX113 and MC2105 in temp system 2
ESS AMT1A

Also have C26 (extra)

Fisher 400
sounds great on ESS AMT1As and also vintage Jensen 3 ways.

WTB: C30's or 240

Plus a few extra systems for mix and match vintage Kenwood, Dynaco, Mitubishi, Dual, Garrard, Pioneer, Sony, Phillips, Tandberg, Warfedale, Infinity, Klipsch, technics, JVC, HK

With 2 sets of ESS speakers, the only wife friendly solution is to keep it all in the den with small Monitor Audio speakers in the "decorated" family room.

Hi Clay, you DO need C30's or a 240!;)

The Tonmeister believes the C30 are better.
I may save up for some Quad speakers - they sounded so good when I listened to them at the analog room in San Jose.

I forgot what makes the C30 vs the 240 better. I read all the information yet forgot the particulars. I usually listen to female vocals on LP.
I just need to sell a few pieces of equipment to raise the funds. It is so hard to part with cool old stuff :)
I also wonder why the Fisher 400 sounds so good.

Just pulled the Philips amp out of the system and reinstalled the 2105. Sounds like awhole new system. Went back to the BIG BIG system wall of sound. Smooth highs with no hint of ss tizzy. I guess next step will be to pull the preamp and sub back the C28. I'll add reinstall the MR77 and keep the Philips 6731 tuner for its AM. I guess I have Mc in my blood.

Originally posted by Clay
The Tonmeister believes the C30 are better.
I may save up for some Quad speakers - they sounded so good when I listened to them at the analog room in San Jose.

I forgot what makes the C30 vs the 240 better. I read all the information yet forgot the particulars. I usually listen to female vocals on LP.
I just need to sell a few pieces of equipment to raise the funds. It is so hard to part with cool old stuff :)
I also wonder why the Fisher 400 sounds so good.


Clay, the 240 has better bass due to the solid stater rectifier, vs. the tube rectifier in the C30's . The mids are said to be better on the C30, but I used mine for all lisyening, so i need it to be more muid of the road. But the mids are so much better than ss, that I'm very happy. Boy you ought to hear those flugelhorns!!!!;)

Main system: McIntosh MR 7082 Tuner
McIntosh MA 6200 Integrated Amplifier
Klipschorns
CAL Delta/Sigma (tube) CD player/converter combo
Stax SR-5/SRD-6 earspeaker/transformer combo
Nakamichi tape deck
Radio Shack FM-6 outdoor antenna/RG-6 coax cable
Stanton Gyropoise turntable
Stanton Unipoise tonearm
Grace F9E Ruby cartridge
All sorts of cables

Home Office system: Fisher KX-200 tube integrated amplifier
McIntosh MR 67 tube FM Tuner
McIntosh MAC 1700 hybrid tube/ss Receiver
Pioneer SX-980 Receiver
Infinity Reference 2 speakers (soon to be
replaced with Moth Cicadas)
Arcam Delta 270 CD player
Grado SR-225 headphones
Radio Shack FM-6 antennae/RG-6 coax
All sorts of cables

Bedroom system: McIntosh MAC 1900 Receiver
Klipsch Heresies
Grado SR-225 headphones
SAE 180 Parametric Equalizer
Radio Shack FM-6 antenna/RG-6 coax
All sorts of cables

Two-channel system:

McIntosh C2200 pre
Pass Aleph 30 amp
Rega Planet CD
VPI Scout, SME IV arm, Clearaudio Sigma Wood cartridge
Aragon 47K phono stage
`79 Klipschorns

A C2200? Oh, do those sound wonderful!!!
Welcome Aboard Eat the rude!

Carl

C2200
I was thinking of trading my C20 for a C2200 - What do you think?
I was also thinking of getting the matching amp instead of the MC 240 or C30's - What do you think?
Thanks

I went to the dealer about 6-8 mos. ago and auditioned them with their Tannoys in the room. They were really something!
The lows, mids, and highs all rich and clean. The looks and build quaility all very much there. I would go for it if I could afford to. Roll some NOS tubes in there, :cool:

Carl

if I could afford to
That is an issue.
Money is a lot tighter after getting laid off....new job yet it just pays less.
The C20 and MC 30s are a bit less $$. Yet I bet the new stuff may sound better and not have any problems like old caps.
Lets see new truck or new stereo. It gets a bit hard for my family to understand the time and money I put into stereos.

Best to go with what you got to work with. I've re-capped my 60's, so I'm not in any rush myself. You ought to consider an
MX110. As great reformance as any of the pre's and a great
tuner for less than a pre! I bought both mine locally for $600.
each in very nice condition. Old stock Eurorpean tubes are a
must!:)

Carl

I know how you feel...I was laid off from my previous job after 17 years of faithful service, and then filed bankruptcy! Lost it all, just about. My present job is okay, but the pay's lousy! I was reduced from the system you see here to the simple one I have now (see my present system link below in my sig). I kept my Klipsch (was passed down from my dad), and that's what makes up my very simple, straightforward system I have now. I have no regrets...sure, I miss my old system with all its sources, but my MC250 and my AMC CD player provide me with pure musical nirvana for the moment.

Was able to save up for a 6SN7 SRPP line stage preamp that I just won on eBay for only $245 new! Once I get this Class A tube preamp into my system, I can then slowly begin to build it back up again.

Hi Jim,

Sorry to hear about your bad fortune. Here's hoping that happy daze are right around the corner for ya! :beerchug:

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by Clay
C2200
I was thinking of trading my C20 for a C2200 - What do you think?
I was also thinking of getting the matching amp instead of the MC 240 or C30's - What do you think?
Thanks

Hi Clay,

Do ya really wanna give up your C20? Why not pair it up w/ some 30's or a 240 before ya walk away from the vintage sound? :)

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by CarlV
You ought to consider an MX110. As great reformance as any of the pre's and a great tuner for less than a pre! I bought both mine locally for $600. each in very nice condition. Old stock Eurorpean tubes are a must!:)

Carl

Hi Carl,

Have ya compared a first generation C20 w/ an MX110? IMO, the first gen. C20 leaves the MX110 in the dust! IMO, the C22 is also superior to the MX110. :)

-Jeffrey

I was told the preamp side of the MX110 matches the C22 very closely but those who've owned both seem to prefer the C22.

I just replaced my 110 with a Marantz 7C so now I'm using a Kenwood KR9600 reciever for a tuner (with my MC240 of course). The Marantz was certainly an improvement over the 110 which was pretty sweet to begin with.

Originally posted by garymd
I was told the preamp side of the MX110 matches the C22 very closely but those who've owned both seem to prefer the C22.

I just replaced my 110 with a Marantz 7C so now I'm using a Kenwood KR9600 reciever for a tuner (with my MC240 of course). The Marantz was certainly an improvement over the 110 which was pretty sweet to begin with.

Hi Gary,

I've always wanted to pair my 240 w/ a 7C....... congrats! :beerchug:

-Jeffrey

Thanks Jeffrey. That pair with the altecs make for a huge soundstage. Very different than the scott/cornwall combination I have upsstairs. With the scott I can almost pinpoint the voice and each instrument whereas with the mac/marantz/altecs they just overtake the room. Still in all the right places just a larger presence if that makes any sense. I'm extremely pleased with both.:banana:

Add an MC250 to the stats,,,its arriving to its new home tomorrow at some point..! I will post pics then..

The vintage gear is still very viable, but if one had the cash, the C2200 was designed by the same guy who did the C22 (and allmost all McIntosh tube gear) only after he had 40 more years expeirence as a design engineer. Imagine the tube sound with less distortion ,lower noise floor, remote control, programmable triggers, re-nameable inputs, glass face and BLUE METERS!

Sorry for the sales pitch, but I couldn't help myself.

As long as we're into sales pitches:

Don't forget the C2200's electromagnetic switching (good riddance to contact cleaner!), unity gain feature, variable rate volume control that has 214 steps in 0.5 dB increments, input level matching, balanced outputs and four pairs of balanced inputs. Plus it will control the main and two separate amps/systems. I'll be owning this preamp for a long time. :deal:

I had an original C-22 prior to the C2200 and I don't miss the lack of remote control and cleaning the pots a bit! :whip:

Have ya compared a first generation C20 w/ an MX110? IMO, the first gen. C20 leaves the MX110 in the dust! IMO, the C22 is also superior to the MX110.

No, I haven't had the opportunity to A/B a C20 or 22 and MX110. I haven't knowingly heard an early C20 either. I do know when I
took out my MX110 and went CD direct I found the sound as equal and clean as with it. I am very pleased with it. For the money, the improvement would be in a C2200.:) Nobody's got to sell me on that!

Carl

MX110 z series is basically the preamp of a C20 and the tuner from an MR67, early version matches the MR65B.
When working up to snuff it sounds very good, a hidden value that is currently undervalued.

No kidding! Thanks Terry, that's interesting, is the early C20 tube rectified and later SS?

Carl

Is one C20 better than another?
Mine is serial number 7L591 is this the good one?
It does not have the trim between the upper and lower knobs.

Another question is for new release records and 70's records should it be set to LP or RIAA? RIAA is the correct setting I believe yet LP sounds great too.

Hi Clay, what you are describing is a later C-20.

Have prints for early and late C20, both use a 6X4 rectifier.

Been busy in shop, 4 dead MCD7000, fixed 2, now one for stock and mine, isn't that the way it goes mine is allways last.

mine is allways last
Yep, Cause yours doesn't pay the bills! :D

Carl

Originally posted by Clay
Is one C20 better than another?
It does not have the trim between the upper and lower knobs.

Another question is for new release records and 70's records should it be set to LP or RIAA? RIAA is the correct setting I believe yet LP sounds great too.

Hi Clay,

Different generation C20's sound different. Which gen of a C20 is better than another depends upon your tastes. I prefer the first gen.

RIAA is the "correct" setting but your ears & system may prefer what the LP setting does to the eq.

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by dewickt
MX110 z series is basically the preamp of a C20 and the tuner from an MR67, early version matches the MR65B.
When working up to snuff it sounds very good, a hidden value that is currently undervalued.

Hi Terry,

First off, i agree that the MX110 is a great value!

With that said, doesn't the integration of the tuner w/ the preamp negatively affect the sound? Is the MX110 tube recitified because that certainly changes the preamps sonics?

-Jeffrey

Both the MX110 and C22 used selenium rectifiers.
If ss rectification is bad then how come the C22 and MR71 are so good ?

Originally posted by dewickt
Both the MX110 and C22 used selenium rectifiers.
If ss rectification is bad then how come the C22 and MR71 are so good ?

Hi Terry,

I'm not trying to pass judgement on whether or not ss rectification is bad BUT point out that the MX110 cannot be basically the same preamp as a C20 when it doesn't have a tube rectifier. Make sense?

What about my other question........doesn't the integration of the tuner w/ the preamp negatively affect the sound?

-Jeffrey :)

The ps recitification has nothing to do with the preamp circuits themselves. You can mod a SS rectifed ps to tube and vice versa. The 110 is based on the C20 and depending on series the MR65b and MR67. As for sound quality; to make that analysis you'd first have to confirm that each unit meets the manufacturer's specs (or other objective standard). Comparing used equipment can and will lead to inconsistent results. I've had 110s that side by side sound like pure gold and the next sounds like a radio shack transistor radio for $1.98. When these were new(er), a mid series or Z series 110 sounded everybit as good as a C20 and MR65b or 67.

Originally posted by Brian
The ps recitification has nothing to do with the preamp circuits themselves.

When these were new(er), a mid series or Z series 110 sounded everybit as good as a C20 and MR65b or 67.

Hi Brian,

IMO, the type of ps rectification utilized affects the sonic signature of the unit. You appear to disagree but i've found the tube recitifier to improve mid's at the expense of the low's.

IMO, integrated units generally compromise sound quality.

Just Another View,
Jeffrey

What are the differences between the early C20 and the later version (s?) that would contribute to the early version sounding better?
Terry (and Jeffrey in other posts) have a good point about the differences in sound between units. Could I tell if mine is sounding great by having the output distortion measured. That is the only test I can have done for free locally.

Anyone in the bay area with a C20 want to have a shoot out?

Originally posted by Clay
What are the differences between the early C20 and the later version (s?) that would contribute to the early version sounding better?
Terry (and Jeffrey in other posts) have a good point about the differences in sound between units. Could I tell if mine is sounding great by having the output distortion measured. That is the only test I can have done for free locally.

Anyone in the bay area with a C20 want to have a shoot out?


SH, help us out on this one!!!!!!!!!!

Originally posted by ronflugelguy
SH, help us out on this one!!!!!!!!!!

Take it over to my place.

http://www.stevehoffman.tv/forums/showthread.php?threadid=23962

Thanks - I was wondering why if the question was asked HERE on A.K., why it then couldnt simply be answered here :screwy:

Because these guys are all Mac people and know this stuff already. I want to educate the people who don't know anything about this stuff. That would be on the other site. Correct?

Well, it appears to me that those folks who participate on the 'other site' are people who have a bit more than a passing interest in sound reproduction, thus the chances are purty-good that they would posess some familiarity with McIntosh hi fi equipment :tongue:

Hi BeatleFred,

SH is a very nice guy and a visitor here. IMO, his approach was very kind.

You're correct that us folks who participate on the 'other site' have alot of interest in sound reproduction. IMO, folks focus more on schematics here and sound there.

It's all about the music,
Jeffrey :)

Nine months ago I purchased a 2505 amp and a 36 preamplifier. The 50 watt per channel amplifier is plenty of power for my efficient speakers. I upgraded from Adcom and could not be more happy. The sound is fabulous and the looks (meters) are unmatched!

RON like anna kournikova....

:bigok:

Originally posted by WhiteSE
RON like anna kournikova....

:bigok:

Hi,

Then ya outta also checkout Mudbone's avatar. ;)

-Jeffrey

Originally posted by Jeffrey
Hi,

Then ya outta also checkout Mudbone's avatar. ;)

-Jeffrey


Yeah, Mud's DA Man!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:yippy: :yippy:

So anyway, Welcome Aboard brigrizzzme!

Carl

OK, just signed up here at the 'Karma. I'm currently running an MX-110 and a MC225 combo. Received from a step-mother-inlaw who gave it to me when she moved this summer. She's the original owner with the original receipts to prove it. I've re-capped them and am re-discovering the joys of tubed audio. It came with a set of huge JBLs in cabinets and an Elac/Miracord 50H, which still works quite well, given its age.

I had an MX-110 back in the 70s along with a TD-124/SME arm and KLH speakers so I'm really just remembering what all that nice stuff was like again.

Also back into LPs, too. Have my eye on another MC225 to run in mono/strapped with my speakers someday but don't really have to as the system's nice as it is and the wife is really impressed, too.

Cheers,

David

Welcome dshoaf! So what model JBL's are you using? I'm a fan of old school "big sound" too btw. MC225 is one of the few vintage
pieces I haven't heard. :( I probably would buy one if I knew of a
winner. :) Hope you enjoy your time here!

Carl

I've lusted after McIntosh equipment since my teens. I finally bought a C712 preamp 8 years ago and bought a big old MC7270 used in very nice shape 3 years ago. I won't ever get rid of them, but I may add to the collection. I'd like to get a MR77 or MR78 tuner just because, and would love to have an MPI4 as a toy and to set up my turntable.
My current system consists of:
Thorens TD126 Mk.III with stock TP16 Mk.III arm and 2 TP63 arm wands
Ortofon Super OM30 MM cartridge with -40 (gyger II stylus)
Stanton 681EEE-S with 78 conical stylus
California Audio Labs CL 10 CD/HDCD changer
Yamaha CT800 tuner
Kenwood KX1030 3 head cassette deck
Carver H9AV Sonic Holography processor
McIntosh C712 preamp
McIntosh MC7270 amp
Joseph Audio RM25si speakers
Belden 89259 interconnects with Bullet plugs
Kimber 8PR speaker cable

http://www.theanalogdept.com/images/spp6_pics/Thorens_Gallery/Carbonman_web/Cman_sys_1.jpg

Cheers,

Graham

Hi Carl,

The JBLs are in the Barlizay cabinets that came to me in the whole package. Also included was an Elac 50H turntable, which still works but needs cleaning of the bearings.

I'm actually not using the JBLs and they sit in their cabinets out in the garage right now. I tried them but they do roll off quite low as the specs on the LE175s indicate it should do. Compared to the B&W CDM series I'm using they're much more efficient but not nearly able to throw as good a stable image, IMHO. Also, the cabinets are far too large for use in the 1200 sf house I have.

With those bid D130s, the bass, however, will rattle the windows.......and with very little effort on the MC225's part.

Cheers,

David

Those Barzilay's are some big cabinets allright. I've never heard them though. :(

I'm in a 900 sq fthouse and I have 3 setups all using JBL's with 15" bass. I have a pair of 50's A7's in my garage that used to be in the house! Just too big and bass isn't there, most likely room size I think. I've tried a lot of this and that, but just went to the JBL's in the living room as the bass is all there and then some. :)

Carl

I must be able to hear those things from over here in Santa Cruz. Just kidding but, seriously, a 900 sf house with JBL's? I'm sure your house will be standing in the next earthquake if you're able to run them in such a small place.

OK, I'll have to get them out one evening when the wife's not around and see what they'll really do. What I remember is that the highs aren't the best compared to the Maggies I've got in the living room setup.

Cheers,

David

Space is a bit tight but JBL's do the trick. I admit I have shaken
loose a lot of stuff over the years. You know how many pieces
a Pyrex dish shatters into when it falls out of an upper kitchen cabinet?:eek: I was still picking up pieces until I re-did the kitchen.

Carl

Hi

I wanted to say as new member I enjoyed seeing all the
pictures of McIntosh equipment .I have owned McIntosh
for 30 years .I respect their quality etc, But I also
enjoy the looks of the Marantz 10B tuner I think that
tuner is a work of art .Thanks again for this forum
and pictures.

Antun,

I agree with you. When it comes to the level of quality in audio equipment from 30 years ago, there wasn't much that was bad. I have also owned Mcintosh for 30 years but I also have recently aquired some Sansui and Pioneer amplifers, tuners and receivers from that era and it's all good!!!

Gary

Hi antun,
So where's your pics? :) Good to have you aboard! Yup,
it's too bad there's not enough 10B's for everyone to have and roll in their system.
I do love the tuning section in my MX110's even though rarely used too.

Carl

Hi

I will try to load some pictures .
I to love Big Speakers ,I built custom JBL speakers with info
I got from the ( JBL Audio Heritage site )
I am driving them with a Mc275 reissue model amp C-37 preamp and using
a MR-74 tuner that I updated the audio output caps to better
quality (polypropyline ) type what a diference .
still tweaking speakers but so far I am real happy with the sound.

Again thanks ,and enjoying this forum

I have:


MX-113 tuner/preamp solid state
MX-110 tuner/preamp tube
C-34 preamp/monitor amp solid state
MC-240 power amp tube


Ron

Vintage analog

MR74
C26
MC2505

MR55 w/Scott LM35 multi.
MA6100

Other Sources:
Mission 775S / 774 arm and orig. cart (stereo)
AR w/Grado MC+ (mono)
Nakamichi 600 cassette
Revox B77
Phase Linear 1000 processor

All to Klipsch Cornwall

quadttawa:

And I thought I was the only guy in the world with the Mission 775 SM turntable and the 774 tonearm. After my overly curious son trashed the Linn Basik arm / Sumiko Blue Point Special I had on the 775, I mothballed the thing. I replaced the Mission with a Rega Planar 3.

I actually dug the turntable out just the other day. I think I'll get it going again, and if everything is okay, I'll sell it. I don't need another turntable.

atuque

While obscure even when new, the Mission TT and arm still has its fans. I note a current auction of a 775s and JA Michell platter. May be just the ticket to get the vinyl back into your blood.

You have some nice toys there quadttawa. How well does the
Scott LM35 mate with the MR55? Just curious. Have some pics
for us? :)

Carl

The Scott and McIntosh MR55 pair are extraordinary. I also use this multiplexer with a Leak Troughline and Troughline II. Also have Heathkit and Pilot multis, but find are noisy and need work.

I am looking for a signal strength meter for the McIntosh MR55, as mine has become intermittent and all other sources of this problem have been eliminated. I need the early riveted version with yellow pointer. Mine is date stamped 1957 but has no other model number, etc.

I purchased a replacement from a McIntosh specialist, but this is dated 1960, has screw rather than rivet attachment and a white pointer. Operating values are also different and, in the case of the original meter, this function is imperative to ensure correct voltage at the plate. Any leads to a source?

Re photos - MR55 is currently apart awaiting meter, but can post photo of other Mc pieces.

BTW - I had intended this message to join the thread of McIntosh pieces. Any way to move my original posting to its intended location??

Yipee I finally got to do something as a moderator! :p:
Maybe someone will see this and be able to help you out regarding your tuning meter. Maybe post about it in the DIY too.
Some pretty handy people there, may help you fix yours.
I always wondered about mixing different brands and the difference in sound. Scott made some great tuners, I use a 350
tuner with a 222 integrated out in my garage/shop. Great DXer's.

Carl

My first post here, terrific site!
MR74 and MA6450 here, with Pioneer DVD-656A and Magnepan MG 1.6QRs.

Pic

Welcome aboard jfroth1, nice pic, nice gear! That 6450 is a real
slick looking performer.:cool:

Carl

Hi Carl, and belatedly, thank you for the warm welcome!

I've had my eye on the MA6900... brute force and finesse for the Magneplanar MG1.6's. I especially like the 5-band EQ which would do the trick F/R-wise in my listening room. Ah, for the perfect room!

But that MA2275 looks... well... it's on the radar screen.

Should I put the MA6450, which is truly just fine, on the block?

Decisions, decisions...

My pleasure. I don't have much experience with driving Maggies except they like a lot of power. You may not want to go lower in watts but go for the gusto of the MA6900 if your going to be using it for them. I think they'd be about right together actually.

Carl

I'm not really sure if this is going to work. I have never posted a photo before. If I foul up, I would certainly appreciate any and all help.

ATQ Rig 1

MC 2255
C 32
MR 75
MCD 7010
Nakamichi CR 4
Rega Planar 3
Thiel CS 3.6

Atuque

I got one to work, and now I will try another.

ATQ Rig 2

MA 6200

Arcam 7SE

MArantz 115B

Sony Deck

Monitor Audio Bronze 2

atuque

McNice pics atuque!

Carl

My only Mcpiece is on top...the MC250...
http://hometown.aol.com/jsujo/images/newset001.bmp

closeup:
http://hometown.aol.com/jsujo/images/mc250new001.bmp

and because I haven't posted this enough already......here they are again.

My McIntosh Equipment

MX112
MX114
MC250
MC2100
C24
MA5100
Stereotech 1200

man, that MC250 is a beaut,,,,just like mine,,,,I got mine fairly cheap by Ebay standards (300.00),,,now they are going for quite more...can you PM me on where you found yours?

eventually I will monoblock them.

I'm new here and relatively new to McIntosh.

A bit of background: I managed a high-end store in Chapel Hill, NC, from 1974 through 1980, and I sold AGAINST the local McIntosh dealer, who was our primary competitor. We were a high-end dealer with lines like Audio Research, Levinson, Marantz, H/K Citation, Linn, B&W, Spendor, Infinity, Accuphase, SME, Ortofon, Sonus, etc. At the time, it was considered the best high-end store between Washington, DC and Miami. And from 1975 through 1977, we were Levinson's biggest dealer.

My first exposure to McIntosh was a MC2505 we took in on trade that we hooked up to a pair of Infinity QLS (Quantum Line Source) speakers (they had a vertical array of EMIT tweeters, dome mids, and a hard to drive woofer), and no matter what taps we used, the MC2505 sounded terrible trying to drive the QLS', so I thought the McIntosh line was over-priced junk.

Early on, I was a active member of the component of the month club, always "tweaking" and always changing something in my system in an effort to get that much closer to "live" sound. However, I later came to realize it was not the individual components themselves that mattered nearly as much as the synergy of how everything worked together within the entire system.

So how did this get me to a mostly McIntosh system? Well, where we live we can get no off-air TV signals, but we can pick up some college public radio stations, mostly via multipath bounces from surrounding mountains. We had been listening to a Pioneer Elite F-91 (a pretty good tuner), but about two years ago I wondered if we could do better, so I bought several tuners off eBay to try out, figuring I'f one was better than the F-91 I'd keep it and sell the others. We had a Kenwood KT-815 as a "spare" that the F-91 replaced, and we bought a McIntosh MR74, borrowed a Modaferri-modded MR78 (only 6 months from being modded and it was driven here, not shipped), and from eBay acquired both a Sansui TU-919 and a Sony ST-S730ES.

Results: The MR74 was the best sounding of the bunch and shared the most sensitive honors with the MR78. The Sony ST-S730ES was a close second in sound quality and sensitivity, followed by the F-91, then the Sansui TU-919, and the MR78 ranked next to last in sound quality, only bettering the KT-815.

We were rather surprised, as the expected the MR78 to sweep the field, but on live acoustic broadcasts from the NPR stations, the MR74 was significantly superior to the MR78. In retrospect, I would have like to have tested an MR77 (everyone says it sounds even better than the MR74 and the MR78), an Accuphase T-100 and a Linn Kremlin, but none were available when we ran our own little "shootout." So we kept the MR74, sent it to McIntosh for a new faceplate, checkout, cleaning, and alignment, and it came back sounding even better than when we first tested it.

Now, the seller of the MR74 offered us a C28 in good condition for $200 if we bought it with the tuner, so we did. I liked the phono section in it, so I then opted to try an MC2205 for a power amp. I was torn between the MC2105 and the MC2205, but in the end decided that the "powerguard" feature of the MC2205 was a valuable feature, and I was sold on the autoformer article on the MC2205 that was reprinted in much of McIntosh's literature.

When I hooked up the MC2205, I immediately fell in love with it smooth, natural, "liquid smooth" midrange, powerful bass, and realistic, natural sounding highs. It sounded more like music than any amp I'd previously listened to and I found myself enjoying my records and CDs much more than I had in the past.

I have been able to successfully integrate a H/T system into my music system as I'm a big fan of DPLII, so this is the current set up:

Front L/R amp: MC2205

Rear L/R amp: MC2205

Center amp: MC2125 (mono'd)

Tuner: MR74

Scope: MI-3

Phono Preamp: C28/Marantz 3800/Creek OBH-8SE for phono use (I alternate between the 3 for phono use).

A/V Preamp: Onkyo TS-DX-696 for A/V and DPLII use (Don't laugh, its "voicing" is essentially identical to the MX134 for a lot less money!)

Vinyl: Michell GyroDec MK.III with QC Power Supply/RB-300 & Shure V-15vMR (not the xMR newest model - I think the older one sounds better and I have a lifetime supply of extra styli.

Tape: Sony TC-K700ES - Cassette

Tape: Teac 4010S Reel/Teac AN-300 Dolby

Tape: Sony TC-651 Reel/Teac AN-300 Dolby

CD: Phillips CD-80/Adcom GDA-700 DAC

SACD: Sony DVP-NS500V

DVD/DVD-A: Toshiba SD-5700

Multichannel Preamp: Sony TA-P9000ES

Speakers - Front L/R: Polk RT-2000p: Anthony Cordesman gave them an extraordinary review in "Audio" before it folded - The so-called "high-end" press is just now rediscovering Polk and ignored Polk and this particular speaker. The RT-2000 series is almost as good as the Focus 20/20 or the large floor-standing ProAc, but most people still laugh and sneer at Polk. Set up properly (right distance from the wall because of their power port sub), they are phenomenal with incredible dynamic range.

Center: Polk CS400

Rears: Polk LS/FX bipole/dipole

Front Sub: Sunfire True Subwoofer

Rear Sub: M&K Goliath II
:cool:

Originally posted by Vinyl Rules!
In retrospect, I would have like to have tested an MR77 (everyone says it sounds even better than the MR74 and the MR78), an Accuphase T-100 and a Linn Kremlin, but none were available when we ran our own little "shootout." :cool:

Did you ever get to hear the Kremlin eventually?

My local Mac dealer has an MR71 at home and a Kremlin. He says the Kremlin is a mighty fine tuner. He's been promsing to lend it to me to compare for quite some time.

Also, I wonder why the MC2505s did not sound good with those original Infinity's.

Number 9, to answer your questions:

1. I never got a chance to hear a Kremlin, even at a dealer. It wasn't out yet when I left the dealership. I've been told the Kremlin is equivalent to the famous NAIM 01 tuner in sound quality, but the NAIM was not a very sensitive tuner and I personally think a McIntosh MR67/71/74/77/80 would better any of the NAIM tuners in sound quality and performance.

I heard Linn lost money on every Kremlin they built (but it was supposed to be a "statement product" for them), like Saul did on his Marantz 10's and 10B's, so that may be why the Kremlin was not in the line for long.

2. We only had two amps that really made the Infinity QLS speakers sound good, a 200wpc Levinson, and the Class D Infinity Switching Amp (unfortunately, most of these Infinity amps blew after less than a month).

Any other amp we tried on the QLS' made them sound anemic, so it may be the MC2505 simply didn't have enough power. We tried it on some other speakers, and the top end seemed rolled off.

I've since learned Frank and Gordon "voiced" this first generation of SS amps to sound like their tube amps, so this may be what we were hearing and that's another reason I went with the next generation of McIntosh SS amps for my own system.

3. I'd jump on the chance to compare a Linn Kremlin with the MR71. I'm a very active member of the tuner group in Yahoo - Their home page is www.fmtunerinfo.com and I know they would welcome you joining their group and posting your findings if you decided to compare these two tuners.

They've tested two McIntosh tuners, a MR78 they didn't think much of, and an MR80 they rated highly. Their top-rated tuner at the moment is the expensive Accuphase T-109V. It is supposedly the cat's meow among all of "tunerdom" but I'm not planning on getting rid of my MR74 anytime soon. I'm very pleased with it, it does everything I want it to do, it sounds wonderful, and I need it's AM capability as we get some bad winter storms here and the local AM station in town has the best weather forecasts for us.

Take your dealer up on his offer to try them both. The MR71 has an established reputation as an excellent sounding tuner, the Kremlin may be more sensitive than the MR71, but I and probably many others would be interested in your comments on the sonic differences between the two.

VinylRules - I own an MR67 and am very happy with it. I hope to try the new MR85 this year.

What piqued my interest with the Kremlin, is that my local Mac dealer also carries Naim and Linn and of course Mac. So he has a good choice to pick from amongst the usual suspects of tuners. He has always contended that the Kremlin was real special. He is a serious radio listener.

Now, on the Naim discussion groups, there was one fellow who had both an NAT01 and Kremlin, and he preferred the NAT01. The Kremlin was infinitely more sensitive and selective he said. However, he felt it was somewhat brighter in the high-end and a bit more forward in the midrange (less laid-back than the NAT01) thus, not his cup of tea. Well, lo and behold, those were exactly what were some of the criticisms of the NAT01 in Jim Rivers' review of this tuner at fmtunerinfo.com site. So go figure? Who is right.

The Kremlin ended production early last year, but had been around for more than ten years. That's a pretty good stretch in tuner-years.

I'm using a MX-113pre with a MC-2100amp. I have a Thorens turntable and Klipsch Forte II speakers. My cd source is a modified Toshiba 3950.

That's the same combo I started off with, see what happens?:eek: Welcome Aboard aninja! Got pics?:D

Carl

I've got an MC225, an MC240, an original MC275 and a C29.

Mike

Welcome Mike!
Nice collection, got any pics to share with us? :D

Carl

nice too see some new mc owners onboard.wlecome its getting to be quite a group of owners around here...
chris

Carl,

I 'll try to post a pic sometime soon.

Regards,
Mike

I will be a McOwner again,,,soon!

Originally posted by MTY


I 'll try to post a pic sometime soon.



That would be great when you can!

WhiteSE, What's on your agenda? ;) A new MC275? :D

Carl

Having made the mistake of selling my MC -30s about 8 years ago, I am back to Mac with a pair of MC225s that I run as mono blocks. I am using a Cary SLP88 preamp with a Sony SCD222es and a VPI turntable. The tube macs make my Klipsch Cornwalls sing. I have to say that I was using a MX 110 but like the pairing with the modern Cary preamp much better IMHO.

Josh

Originally posted by CarlV
That would be great when you can!

WhiteSE, What's on your agenda? ;) A new MC275? :D

Carl

New?? ha! I am a proud member of the "I buy all stereo gear used",,,in other words, just poor....LOL

Well, in seriousness, I have been authorized to buy in august pair of speakers and another amp..and if the amp is biwireable, I will get a used 275, or a pair of 240's...to use as mid/tweets. There have been some 240's that went under 1K on ebay.But anyway....I debate between that, or big MC2500, or a newer one..

Poll: Glow of Tubes OR Glow of Blue Meters?

WhiteSE

Two things in life you should only buy and never sell.. McIntosh gear and Ducatis. I made that mistake with a Ducati. I won't make it with my McGear.
When did you see a 240 for less that $1K? I haven't seen one go for less than $1500 in the past six to eight months.
Bill

WhiteSE writes "But anyway....I debate between that, or big MC2500, or a newer one.."

There are some who prefer the MC2300's voicing to that of the MC2500. I've seen reference to this in both the vintage section of AudioAsylum and in the McIntosh group in www.my.yahoo.com.

I haven't listened to either, so cannot offer you an opinion as to which is "better." I suspect they're both wonderful, just slightly different. I'm a big fan of the MC2205: I'm sure there's something out there that may sound better, but I've not heard it yet. I tend to associate weight with quality and the MC2205 was the heaviest 200 wpc. amp McIntosh made. :dunno:

What kind of speakers do you plan to use that require this much power? :cool:

I will be getting some Platinum Audio Solo's which are reknown for being power hungry big time..

But even if i just kept my L-96's...I just want a big Mc or a tubed...
Also, in Michigan, the guy who sold me my Merkur Xr4Ti was an english gent that raced Ducatis...beauts..

ok. first post anywhere !
first i appreciate all the responses of mc lovers everywhere !
im just starting to build a " real " 2 channel system and get some
decent components. thinking of a 6900 integrated after a decent
cd player- the marantz dvd player doesnt cut it with music- thanks to the posts of all you mcophiles ! however i find it frustrating reading the posts because its all a bunch of numbers !
is there a list somewhere explaining the mc model numbers to which component pre- power- tuner ? and which era ?

i wish to educate myself in the way of the mc

Welcome.

There are two great sites that have catalogued Mac gear over the past forty years.

http://www.berners.ch/McIntosh/en/Frame_McIntosh.htm

http://www.roger-russell.com

For current models, there is the McIntosh Labs website.

http://www.mcintoshlabs.com

Have fun shopping!

thanks for the informative reply no. 9
that berners is fantastic ! pics and everything !
:D

No probs. Poke around on Roger Russel's site too, a lot more there than meets the eye on first glance.

Originally posted by Number 9
No probs. Poke around on Roger Russel's site too, a lot more there than meets the eye on first glance.

Yes, there's a lot of great information at Roger's site - it was my primary resource when I began educating myself about Macs over the winter.

As to gear, I have two Mac pieces currently - my first acquisition was a Mac4100 stereo receiver, and then recently I aquired an Mc2205 to drive my Klipsch CF-4's.

The 4100 is pulling pre-amp/tuner duty for the 2205, and the 75w/ch amp section of the 4100 is powering my Klipsch rear surrounds via line level inputs from my home theatre integrated amp.

What's the consensus on using a 4100 as a pre-amp? Would I gain audible benefits by switching to a Mac pre-amp? Thanks, guys!


Jim

First Welcome On Board! :)
I haven't heard a 4100 but they are thought of quite well. I say
if it sounds good go with it. Looks like a smart way you're using it too. A MC2205 to drive your CF 4's, I like your style! :cool:

Carl

http://www.klipsch.com/product/product.aspx?cid=124

Hi all,

I came to this board after I bought a MA 6450 on eBay 3 months ago from John Fleer. He thought that I' was member of AudioKarma, but I wasn't.

Attached are some pictures of my McIntosh collection that I sent to John Fleer. There are more of them in my bedrooms, and in my lab. I'll post them when I have time to take pictures.

Krytar

more pictures

My MC275G has S/N 007

:eek:

I've only got a MA6100. It sounds great though.

more pic.

The stainless steel piece at the lower left is one of my MI75 pair.

More Mac

Is that a radio controlled Sopwith Camel WW1 plane.?,,,,,oh, yeah nice Mc gear..:D

Yes, It's a WWI remote controlled airplane. I don't have room to put it somewhere else. My remote controlled helicopter is sitting on top of another bookshelf. No time to fly them.

Pardon my mess. I'm taking a very good care of all my gears, but lately I don't have much time. I'll get thing organized when I have some spare time.

Krytar

:ntwrthy: Wow! :cool:

Welcome to AK krytar! Got any pics?:p:

What a wonderful collection you have. :thmbsp:

Carl

Nice Mac's Krytar. But I'll bet your Dyna's are your daily players.:D

Jim

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Carl

I do have couple Dynaco ST70 amps laying around, but the last time I listened to it was about 3 years ago when I test my home built Lowther DX4 in Z-Horn cabinets.

I ended up to use a MX110/MC225 combo, then I dismantled it since the Z-horn/Lowther doesn't have much bass as I expected (the Lowthers DX4 are brand new so they need more time to break-in).

Now, when I'm in my lab, I listen to the MC240/Audio Research LS15 preamp along with my Sony SACD. When I'm in my living room. I use the MC275G with the newer Sony SACD (9000ES). or sometimes with the ClearAudio turn table.

My lab isn't for audio, but for microwave stuffs (from 2-36GHz).

krytar

"....My lab isn't for audio, but for microwave stuffs (from 2-36GHz).

krytar..."

How long for good popcorn??:D :D

LOL

:p:

It will take couple days!!!!!!!


:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

For the past month and a half I have owned a pair of MC-30's to go with my Klipsch Cornwalls. They certainly fill the room with sound. Any suggestions on how to get the best out of the MC-30's would be apprecitated.

I do not have a digital camera, so no pictures at this time, but you have already seen MC-30's in good to very good shape.

Preamp: Mapletree Audio 4A SE
Cd: Teac VRDS-10
Tuner: Scott LT-110
Turntable: Rega Planar 3

Own a pair of Mac-60's, MR-66, and a C-20. Running the Mac-60's with a different pre. Have had these since the late 80's.

Mx-110 - later model
MC-240 - RCA Blackplate 6l6GC
MC-225 - Westinghouse 7591 - another set, used, coming
1900 going
4100 coming

I thought the McIntosh were a fixed bias, do they really need matched sets and biasing?

soundbored

Mx-110 - later model
MC-240 - RCA Blackplate 6l6GC
MC-225 - Westinghouse 7591 - another set, used, coming
1900 going
4100 coming
***********
C-20
MC-60s
***********
Yamaha CR-100 PRE out
MC - 2120 nice match
************
Adcom 565 Pre
Adcom 5200 Amp
Mentioned non McIntosh so I could get some comments.

QUESTION:
I thought the McIntosh were a fixed bias, do they really need matched sets and biasing? Are they?

soundbored

McIntosh amps use a floating bias system, not critical for tube match or aging of tubes. The exception to this are the MAC1500 and the MA230 that use 7591 outputs, these have test points and bias setting pots.

So it doesn't matter how far off the tubes measure? Does this also mean that you could use a kt-88 and a 6550 together if need be??

Electrically it will not hurt the amplifier but sonically it may have an effect, it will affect power output and distortion levels. The exact amount of mismatch a McIntosh will tolerate I just do not know, I personally like to keep matching to within 20% as a worst case and 10% or less for better power and sound.

Originally posted by soundbored
Mx-110 - later model
MC-240 - RCA Blackplate 6l6GC
MC-225 - Westinghouse 7591 - another set, used, coming
1900 going
4100 coming
***********
C-20
MC-60s
***********
Yamaha CR-100 PRE out
MC - 2120 nice match
************
Adcom 565 Pre
Adcom 5200 Amp
Mentioned non McIntosh so I could get some comments.

QUESTION:
I thought the McIntosh were a fixed bias, do they really need matched sets and biasing? Are they?

soundbored

Welcome aboard soundbored!
Nice collection, got pics?:D
I would like to add more pieces, the thought of a nice Mctube collection never leaves for long. :)

Carl

You may want to hold onto the 1900 until you determine yuo like the 4100 better. It seems a number of the 4100 owners aren't enamoured with them.

I have just one Mac piece.

MR-78 tuner original owner. Unit is mint.

Hey Terry, I wouldn't really try it but was curious as to how far you could be out and still run.Listening to them now,still fine. Randy

Well I'll try to upload some pics, I'll sort for the best. Thanks for the welcome. You are correct, McIntosh tube causes a hunger.....

Brian: Do you or anyone else know what was not liked about the sound? I may consider keeping that or going to a 4200.

What I don't like is the tracking on the on/off volume switch/pot. I bought it, thought the switch was defective. Ordered another, had it installed by a McIntosh dealer Tech and same problem. In talking with others it seems the McIntosh bought some lower quality replacements. $$85.00 down the drain. He checked the circuits and found no problem. So unless I can find a lower price replacement and installation my first thought was the 4100.

I read in either this forum or another that Terry does a great job. He worked on my 110 and checked it when I bought it from TM.

Thanks for replying, keep them coming. Maybe I'll get it nailed down I hope. There's not a mark on the 1900 or the 4100 so at least they look good. But now I'm curious. No one has ever said anything about the 4100. It's time I heard the "bad & the ugly."

soundbored

MX115 Receiver/Pre here, for now attached to a Carver TFM-75. Wating to find a MAC amp...

Brian....more for your tally of Mac Gear...............have owned MX110 (The one piece I sorely regret selling} MR 78/2100/MX117/and currently will not bring myself to selling off this C-33. I will trade back to a decent MX 110 >smile<

Ken

Posted by Cfoster on 10-14-2004 01:16 AM:

Hi Brian,

I run a C24 preamp into a Dynaco ST70 via a MQ 102 driving AR3a speakers. I currently use a Fisher R200 tuner but am restoring an MX 113 for use a a tuner with additional imputs. Other components: Lynn CD player, Thorens TD 145 MKII with Grado, Crown (tube) reel to reel take decks, Tascan cassette and DAT decks.

It's a really fine system for Classical music.

Clyde


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have a chance to get a MX 110 pre/tuner. I've seen mentioned a "later version" of the 110.

What is the difference (later version) and how do you tell? Serial numbers?

What is the price range for a decent working 110?

THANKS

Later version is the "Z" series, look for a Z in the serial number, will have PanLoc buttons on the front. Depending on condition they have been showing up at $500 to $700 in "as is" working condition, in mint refurbished condition with a warranty expect to pay over $1,000 closer to $1,500.
To get a MX110 worked over electrically, cap upgrades, new PS filters, alignment, etc. expect to spend another $300+.

Current:

MX134 (with TM1)
MCD7008
MA7270
MA7106 (bridged into 3x320)
MLD7020
XR17 Speakers

Supplemented with Denon 2900
Nakamichi 600 Cassette Deck
Sony SLV 1000 VCR
M&K 100 Center and Surrounds
M&K Sub Woofer


In the Store Room:
MA6100
MAC1500

Sony DVP-S9000ES (For Sale, BTW...)
Tandberg 74B Reel to Reel

Recently Sold:
C-39
MAC-3
MR7083

Used to own:
MA230 (My first McIntosh piece....)
The Integrated Unit that preceded the 6100...(Can't think of nomenclature..)
McIntosh Speaker system that preceded XR17.

Next Up:
MVP861
:banana:

I have a low numbered MA 230 with original McIntosh 7591s and all NOS telefunkens...just about mint condition and sounds sooo sweet..sound stage is wide and deep..makes my smallish listening area seem as wide as Symphony Hall!

Best part is i actually paid.....200 bucks for it..before the telefunkens...For about 350 bucks I feel that i did alright...maybe when I'm dead and gone it will be worth something..right now I wouldn't sell it for 800..in fact a thousand is not enough..not for what it is to me

Zoomerv8

here are my McGoodies MC40's! :yes: http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//505/237750/macspair-med.jpg

HAHAHAHA :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: Looks like Big Brother is watching.

try again.. i want to see these mc tube amps youve been always wanting.some nice closeups would be nice.im sure you know now that its not going to stop with the mc40's you'll now be wanting a preamp and perhaps a tuner :D .by the way have you decided on which output tubes to get?
chris

radiocative....I have decided to sit still for a bit regarding the tubes...I want to get familiar with the way they sound now...which is awesome of course...But i think overall the best route is Svetlana.

I have thought that if I change preamps, it would be a C2200 or C22, whichever has the best phono stage,,,but that would be waaaay out there in the future. The Berning preamp is one tough act to follow, and i like how it keeps things tight.

Closeup pics are tough..my digi cam doesnt want to stay in focus when i use the zoom that much...

Well, I have finally joined the club here. I just picked up an MA-6100 (well actually I picked that up last month) and an MR-65B in really good shape (it should be, the guy claims it was just seviced by Terry).

HAPPY HAPPY, JOY JOY!!

Congratulations on getting the McIntosh experience going! What kind of speakers you using with them? Got pics? :D

Carl

I'm running the system through a pair of Magnepan SMGa's augmented by a Pinnacle Digital Sub 300. This seems to be a good match because it is a very fast sub.
I'll post pics as soon as I get my MA-6100 back from McIntosh (it was damaged during shipment). If only I had known about Terry before I sent it out. UPS is paying for the repairs.

I've had my C-26 & MC-2505 since 1971 and have been glad I saved for them ever since. I acquired a MX 114 15 years ago to use as a tuner. It needs to be gone through as well as the other two. They have been going for a long time. My Altec Valencia's I bought in the 60's still play but the cabinets haven't fared well in the 10+ moves since I bought them. All the equipment is out in my shop. I have since found a Dual turntable/changer like the one I had umpteen years ago. So now I can play all my old LP's. I got out of the stereo equipment race when they started making it like cars and you had to have a new model every year. All the companies were breaking up and guys going out on their own. Coming back I see most of them have gone or else changed their equipment names. I'm not an audiophile, just was lucky enough to buy good equipment as I went through the 70's. :D Thank you for this great forum.

Hello. My first post here. I am the proud owner of an MC 2105 and a Z-series MX-110. I bought them both from Audio Classics. My speakers are B&W 604s3. Rega P3 Turntable and a Sony ES SACD/CD player. I have been really happy with my two Mac pieces. Love the looks and I love the sound. None of my other equipment feels as well-built. The build quality is one of my favorite things about the Mac stuff. I've enjoyed reading through all of these McIntosh posts and all the great photos. It's like audio porn. :D

Here is a photo of my two pieces:

Hi Ian, looks good!!!!!!!! :yes:

Thanks, Ron! Nice to see a familiar face here!

Attached is a photo of my setup consisting of:
MC275 IV amp
C2200 preamp
MHT100 HT receiver
Denon 2900 DVD player
MMF 5 TT

Bought the two granite-top tables from Lowes for $138 each. These were kitchen islands that I modified to fit in front of my TV. Very heavy & sturdy.

The MC275 and C2200 are new (Christmas present from wife!). Quite frankly, they blow away anything I've ever heard or tried. I've had to engage the tone controls to get the treble/bass gain right - but the sound is warm, 3-dimensional, and emotional.

Me likey! :)
Nice setup you have adg 57 (drooling).

BTW, I stopped by my McIntosh dealer after Christmas and they were cleaned out on the MC275 and C2200's. None even on display. :yes:

Carl