Is my new amp TOO GOOD?


I recently took advantage of the McIntosh Upgrade program.  I traded my MA352 integrated hybrid for the C2800 tube preamp + MC462 ss power amp.  I have a large room with Revel Studio 2 speakers (with beryllium tweeters), and two SVS subs.  I also have some room treatments on the walls.   

I traded up because I wanted to see if I could more detail with the extra watts while keeping the tube sound I like.  

So now I have much more detail, but its sometimes too much.  Higher frequencies - like high pitched loud vocals, and some of the detail now sounds almost like static.  If I turn the volume way up I can hear that its another guitar or a background vocal.

I have turned the treble down from -1 to -4, and I can't listen at 90 db all the time.

Does anyone have any suggestions about adjusting the eq/

 

mojo771

To @mojo771 -is the C2800 preamp brand new as well?

The larger MC 462 is generally known to be fuller and warmer sounding than the 352 amp overall if you follow regular reports by owners. I'm simply wondering if the C2800 preamp unit is new too, with all new small signal tubes in that as well.  And, as others mentioned before - looking at both units, do both the preamp and amp need at least time to settle in, even though McIntosh indicates no break-in time needed. True or not, give both units at least 100hrs, and I also wonder if you recall your former 352 amp sounding nicer as you got 200+ hours on it, or did it sound exactly the same as new when you traded it in, etc 

 

Reading all the comments about beryllium tweeters have me sharing my experience.  I have a pair of Revel M126Be standmounts with beryllium tweeters because I found other speakers tweeters to be too sibilant with certain tracks at higher volumes.  I tried several different speakers with different tweeters and the beryllium sound the best to my old guy ears.  If the Revels sounded good before the change and they don’t now you have your answer, it’s the new equipment.  I wouldn’t be thinking about switching speakers to match new equipment although some dealers would love that.  If you’ve given it 100 hours that’s the sound in my listening experience.  Suggest trying different equipment or forget about chasing something new and go back to what works for you.  Best of luck with your new musical journey.  

Thanks for all the input.  It seems like I need to get to work breaking this in. 

Work, work, work, but I will persist.

Yes. Break in is easy. Leave the system on and playing while you are home and awake. You should be able to get it broken in in three weeks. 

 

Certainly agree with the break-in comments as the major potential issue.  Especially since you stayed within the Mc line.

I am surprised by your comments on Mc customer service.  I used to have a number of Mc components and always found their customer service to be both helpful and responsive.  I would still try and reach out to them.

The only other recommendation you might want to consider is using REW to evaluate your listening position/room.  The room is always important but even more so as you move in the direction you are headed.