2. amps-preamps
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Mcintosh vs. Audio Research tube preamps

Has anyone had the opportunity to compare, say, Audio Research LS25 with a Mac C22 original or commemorative? They have very similar values on the used market and I was curious as to anyone's perspective. Or say the LS25 (i or ii) and an MX110. I suppose I would expect to hear that the vintage Mac stuff is warmer with more rolled frequencies, but I'd love to get a first-hand impression from somebody. The LS25 mark 1 is also supposedly tube-euphonic, as well. It's a good topic for the old database!
todds7

Showing 1 response by dfhaleycko

dfhaleycko
178 posts
 
I had a C20 for thirty years -- has very nearly the same circuit as the C22. Also owned an ARC for a few years, but it was an LS17. I agree with Jaybo that they are both more neutral than the cj's or many other vintage pre's. To my ears, the mac was more euphonic, and easier to listen to, but probably less transparent (or maybe it was just aging).

Just another data point. Given the choice, I'd go for the Mac, but I like the Mac house sound more than I like the ARC house sound.

HTH
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