C1100 and C52/C2600 - which one?

[btn2803]

Hi All -

I would like to add a preamp to my system. I currently have the PS Audio DAC and like it, so plan to continue to use it. I also have the Marantz 8805A which serves as Surround Processor for movies, and also Pre-amp for 2 channels audio which may not be ideal. So, I would like to add a pre-amp for dedicated analog line stage and am narrowing it down to C1100 and C52/C2600 as I am thinking there are synergies with my MC611s.

I am mostly listening on Digital (CDs/SACDs) and am considering adding a music server down the road (Aurender N10). I do not plan to add a TT.

From what I read from AA members, the C1100 as Analog Line stage is a fantastic pre-amp and would be better than C52/C2600. However, I would probably not use the Phono capabilities of the C1100, and the C52/C2600 would give me a DAC which would serve as a great back up to my system in case something wrong with my PS Audio DAC.

Given the cost difference between the C1100 vs. C52/C2600, and given my needs, I want to get your thoughts on this - would a C1100 be better choice for me even at a higher cost or C52/C2600 would be a better choice, and why? I also lean toward having a Tube pre-amp as I thought it would complement well with solid state amps such as MC611s. I plan to audition these later this year but would like to get you guys input on this.

Thank you.

[xv21]

Originally Posted by btn2803

I am mostly listening on Digital (CDs/SACDs) and am considering adding a music server down the road (Aurender N10). I do not plan to add a TT.

McIntosh D1100: https://www.mcintoshlabs.com/product...plifiers/D1100. The McIntosh D1100 is really a good DAC and a good preamplifier. D1100 DAC is better than C52 and C2600 DAC. If you add MCT500 SACD/CD transport, then you have a really good SACD/CD player.

[btn2803]

Originally Posted by xv21

McIntosh D1100: https://www.mcintoshlabs.com/product...plifiers/D1100. The McIntosh D1100 is really a good DAC and a good preamplifier. D1100 DAC is better than C52 and C2600 DAC. If you add MCT500 SACD/CD transport, then you have a really good SACD/CD player.

Thanks. No doubt the D1100 would be great. However, I have just added the PS Audio DAC and plan to keep it for now. And for Transport, I am using the Oppo 205, and it serves me well.

[Bob Bubeck]

If tone controls in some form are important to you, an evaluation of either the C2600 and/or C52 might be worth the effort. Some like/need them. Some don't.

Bob

[John Jordan]

BTN-

Having upgraded to a C 1100 from a C 2500, I can say there is a significant difference. At twice the retail price, you really need to listen to both and ideally with the 601's and your speakers to make your decision.

A tube preamp with solid state amps is a great combination but again, it's all in the listen.
Bob's comment on tone controls is most noteworthy.

[Jdsmoke]

Given your speaker and amp selection, I would go w a stellar preamp. Nothing against the C2500 or C52, but the C1100 is a class above which will allow the rest of your systems potential to shine. Dacs seam to be always changing, so I personally look for components which can have an extended lifespan before upgrading. If cost is an issue, look at used. You typically can get a C1100 for around $8-9k.

http://www.tonepublications.com/revi...-preamplifier/

[btn2803]

Thanks Bob and John.

Yes, I plan to audition them all. My dealer carry them so would be able to set these up for a good listening session

On tone control capabilities on the C2600/C52, I never had these so am not sure how one can best use them. Do you adjust by ears to your liking, or is there another method?

Thanks again.
Thanh

[JBT]

I would go with the C1100. The other two have built in DACs.

[btn2803]

Originally Posted by Jdsmoke

Given your speaker and amp selection, I would go w a stellar preamp. Nothing against the C2500 or C52, but the C1100 is a class above which will allow the rest of your systems potential to shine. Dacs seam to be always changing, so I personally look for components which can have an extended lifespan before upgrading. If cost is an issue, look at used. You typically can get a C1100 for around $8-9k.

http://www.tonepublications.com/revi...-preamplifier/

Thanks. Yes, DAC seems to change overtime, and that’s one reason I select the PS Audio DAC because PS Audio has been releasing “software” update to their DAC so it’s like having a “new” DAC after the update. So far, I like the PS Audio DAC. Thanks for the link. I will check out used ones.

[Levitator]

Originally Posted by John Jordan

BTN-

Having upgraded to a C 1100 from a C 2500, I can say there is a significant difference. At twice the retail price, you really need to listen to both and ideally with the 601's and your speakers to make your decision.

A tube preamp with solid state amps is a great combination but again, it's all in the listen.
Bob's comment on tone controls is most noteworthy.

I also went from a C2500 to C1100 and there was a significant difference. The lack of tone controls on the C1100 is the only downside IMHO however I personally rarely used them anyway and think having a separate DAC to the pre amp is more practical (but more costly) longer term....

Good luck with the listening and decision!