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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
ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,413 posts
 

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. 

 

wswright20
80 posts
 

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.

jrareform's avatar
jrareform
184 posts
 

These are all great suggestions.  OP, please report back in a couple weeks and let us know if things have settled for you.  I've had this same situation with gear.  And sometimes it isn't burn in.  Some gear makes some of my favorite music sound rough maybe because the extra detail can rob some songs of their warmth.

Would love to hear how this story winds up for you!  Best of luck!

dynacohum
833 posts
 

When you had the MA-352, did you use the 8 band EQ?  The C2800 takes that feature away.  Consider adding a Schiit Lokius+ in between pre and amp. I’m sure this bothersome brightness varies with different recordings. Your newly more revealing system is maybe just telling you like it is, and you are blaming the messenger. With judicious application of EQ, you can edit the message. 

jacobsrph
3 posts
 

Your speakers are very detailed revealing sounding and are known for their excellent sound imaging but tend to reveal every detail and with the upgraded McIntosh gear your sound is leaning on the harsh side. McIntosh pairs better with Sonus Faber speakers which are much warmer sounding compared to the Revel speakers that you have. If would consider Sonus Faber speakers as they pair very nicely with Sonus Faber. But if that’s not an option I would consider swapping out the C2800 for a PrimaLuna Evo 400 preamplifier. This will give you a warmer less harsh sound with your Revels. 
 

I was considering upgrading to the exact same McIntosh gear you just selected so this thread caught my attention. I currently use Sonus Faber Olympica Nova III speakers paired with a Parasound JC5 amplifier and P6 preamp. My next move was between the PrimaLuna preamp at $6500 or the McIntosh gear you chose for upwards of $20,000. For cost reasons I’m going to start with the PrimaLuna preamp first. 
 

Excellent advice from everyone else here that I have read but I honestly don’t think upgrading a DAC, longer component break in or better speaker wire will make a significant impact on what you are looking for. 
 

Summary: Try PrimaLuna tube preamp if you love your Revel speakers, or consider Sonus Faber or other warmer less revealing speakers. I hope this helps.

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