D’agostino match

[Electricboogaloo]

I’m thinking about replacing my Mac c2300 with a D’agostino preamp. What are your thoughts on that match? Thank you!

[Porsche993TT]

i would take the agostino over any McIntosh, not even close IMO

[djcxxx]

You need to consider synergy with the amp. Impedance matching is just one factor. I paired my ARC 5SE w/ MC 601s on Magnepan 3.7s and it was rather lifeless compared to the ARC VT200 I traded in on the 601s. I am in the camp of amp/preamp from same mfg. unless you can audition various combinations in your system before purchase.

[Antonmb]

I agree amp/preamp synergy is critical. A great pre + a great amp, if mismatched, will not equal great performance. You will not realize the full potential of a D'Ag pre with McIntosh amps.

[dentlfly]

i replaced a mcintosh 462 amp with a d'agostino s-250 momentum stereo amp using mcintosh c1100 preamp. the change of amps was huge in a very positive way. much more musical; bigger soundstage in all dimensions; very warm sounding as well but detailed. i am going to change out mc c1100 to the newer c12000 with much better phono stage. momentum preamp im sure would sound amazing but not in the budget.

[Gregam]

Hi,
in my experience the d'Agostino pre will surely outperform your current Mac pre. As regards the "impedance matching": at ¬22k Ohms input impedance, it doesn;t look like the amp is a difficult load.