C1000P/T Integration and Balanced Record Link

[Steve]

I am finally integrating a new C1000P into my system and have to make some choices regarding integration, source input and output selection.

First consideration is 2 pairs of XLRs into the MC2301s from each of the pre-amps MAIN outputs. Easy, I have the perfect XLRs for this. Siltech Royal Signature Princess G7.

Second consideration is how to push a signal to the JLF113 active subwoofer pair from any source. The only way I can see to achieve this is to use the McIntosh Balanced Line Integrators which would feed from Main/SPK1 outputs from both the C1000P and C1000T.

Third Consideration. I note that the Record Link C1000P has a female XLR socket and the C1000T a male socket. The Record Link Connections allow sharing of the Inputs between the C1000P and C1000T for recording purposes. So depending on source recording selection, it could act as an input or an output...

In my situation (3 box solution), I suppose it would be best to connect the Record Link between the two pre-amps in the recommended manner and connect balanced recording device(s) to the Main/SPK2 output(s). For example:

1. Studer A810 R2R Line Input to C1000T Main/SPK2 output.
2. Studer A721 Line Input to 1000P Main/SPK2 output.

(or visa versa).

I am wondering how this is going to work... I presume that the active pre-amp is the one doing the listening on the Rec Link input. So in the above example, the Studer A810 would be recording from a C1000P and the Studer A721 would be recording from the C1000T when the Rec-Monitor button is pressed? If the Rec-Monitor button is not active, then the native source on the pre-amp would apply?

The fourth consideration is where to plug my Korg DS-DAC-10R ADC which only has unbalanced RCA inputs for recording purposes. Given the both pre-amps are tethered via the Record Link, if I plug the Korg input into EITHER pre-amp "PROCESSOR Record TO" will this work for any source? Or will it work like an unbalanced SPK output on the active pre-amp for its sources only?

 

[jdandy]

Steve.......The McIntosh Balanced Line Integrators are the solution for feeding the subwoofers from the two preamplifiers SPK1 Outputs on each preamplifier.

You do not want to feed SPK2 outputs to your tape machines because these outputs are for additional power amplifiers and the volume control alters the output levels. You want a fixed line level signal to your tape machines. The fixed line level outputs on both preamps are the outputs labeled SRVR (4) and CDR (5).

The Record Link outputs for left and right channel on one preamplifier will connect via balanced cables to Record Link inputs on the second preamplifier when both preamps are connected to the same C1000 controller.

Your Korg will work as you described by being fed from the Processor Record TO output.

 

[Steve]

Thanks Dan.... Yes of course CDR(5) fixed balanced (XLR) outputs for both tape machines.

This is going to be a great solution! Fully balanced throughout with exception to the ADC recorder.

 

[jdandy]

Steve.......The C1000C/P/T makes an impressive and versatile preamplifier package with a remarkable visual presence. Those three McIntosh components are truly statement pieces. I owned the C1000C/P and the C1000C/T a few years ago. I had separate controllers for each preamp because I was using them in two different systems. At one point I connected both the solid state C1000P and the tube C1000T to a single C1000C controller for a review i wrote. What I discovered was the tube and solid state preamplifiers had more in common than any dissimilarities to speak of. The sound of each preamp was remarkably similar with the exception of the moving coil phono stage. The C1000P solid state preamplifier's moving coil phono stage was considerable quieter than the C1000T moving coil phono stage. Beyond that both preamplifiers were near carbon copies in performance.

I eventually decided to sell the C1000C/T that was in the living room system, purchasing a second C2300 tube preamp to replace it. I had originally had a C2300 in the living room system before replacing it with the C1000T. I needed the extra space in my rack for another piece of equipment so the two box preamplifier had to go. I still own the C1000C/P solid state preamplifier that drives the MC2301 tube power amplifiers in the studio system. I don't see myself ever parting with that preamp.

Have fun with your C1000C/P/T setup. Together with your MC2301 power amplifiers, you have assembled a spectacular sound system. I know you are a guy who crosses all the T's and dots all the I's. I have enjoyed watching you through the years as you have built an exceptional sound system. Congratulations on the addition of a new solid state C1000P to your C1000C/T. It's a match made in heaven.

 

[Steve]

C1000 trio commissioned today. The C1000P is sounding great out of the box but needs some break in time. Sonically, has quite some catching up to the C1000T which has about 8,000 hrs on it. It was an opportune time to test and re-match tubes. The downside of the C1000T is it will burn all of your tube hours even if the source is not selected.

I have discovered that as a trio, there is only one D/A output (7) that can be utilised. I really could have utilised that additional XLR output. The manual says that XLR output (7) can be used from either pre-amp but only the C1000P is outputting in trio mode. I wonder if they decided to fix the D/A to the C1000P only in trio mode with the latest firmware. The MDA1000 was sounding better from the C1000T, so hopefully the C1000P will be comparable as it continues to break in.

 

[jdandy]

Steve.......Will you be posting some current photos with the new preamp? I never tire of seeing your sound system.

 

[Steve]

Dan...The Lady wants me to pull out the camera to take pregnant photos, so yes, Sunday is photo day!

 

[Steve]

SLR didn't come out today as there was to much focus on getting the HT side ready in time to watch the Aussies win the swimming.

So here's some quick phone pics.

 

[Steve]

C1000P is running in nicely. Really is a fabulous pre-amp. So far I have determined that it's characteristics differ a little to the C1000T. Sure they are closely related but they ARE different.

IMO, the C1000P is a better choice for HT passthru with a more dynamic bass response for LFE material.

 

[jdandy]

Steve.......I don't know if you are using an outboard moving coil phono stage, but you should give the C1000P moving coil phono stage a whirl. It is really good.

 

[Steve]

Dan... I will compare the MC phono stages on both pre-amps as soon as I recomission the MT10. I am waiting for 140mm risers for the Quadraspire rack to replace the 180mm ones currently installed. The new Quadraspire bronze upgrade kit decoupling for the top shelf adds 40mm to the height which places the table a bit too high for my liking.

Yes, I'm also thinking the dynamic signature of the C1000P would favour the vinyl medium and it would be very interesting to hear whether this would be advantageous to the Goldfinger Statement cartridge.

With that in mind, I'm inclined to leave the Studer A810 R2R connected to the C1000T.

While I was awaiting delivery of the C1000P, I used that time to put all the 2ch XLRs onto the cable burner for an extended period so all the Siltech are fully burnt in now. That exercise along with refreshing re-insertion of all cables as part of a spring clean has really benefited the system overall. I don't know what it is but the act of re-plugging in cables after a long period of operation has a positive effect especially after 48 hours.

 

[Steve]

C1000 trio commissioned today. The C1000P is sounding great out of the box but needs some break in time. Sonically, has quite some catching up to the C1000T which has about 8,000 hrs on it. It was an opportune time to test and re-match tubes. The downside of the C1000T is it will burn all of your tube hours even if the source is not selected.

I have discovered that as a trio, there is only one D/A output (7) that can be utilised. I really could have utilised that additional XLR output. The manual says that XLR output (7) can be used from either pre-amp but only the C1000P is outputting in trio mode. I wonder if they decided to fix the D/A to the C1000P only in trio mode with the latest firmware. The MDA1000 was sounding better from the C1000T, so hopefully the C1000P will be comparable as it continues to break in.

Correction to myself: The latest firmware disables 7T by default. It can be re-enabled. I believe it can also be re-assigned freeing up an additional Balanced input. I discovered this today. More choice! Great!

I think the MD1000 sounds better into the tube pre-amp. I also think my Studer A726 Tuner (analogue radio) sounds better into the tube pre-amp.

Solid State pre-amp is best for HT passthru and SACD.

I have yet to compare MC phono stages....

 

[jdandy]

Steve.......Curious whether you have had the opportunity to listen to your MT10/Clearaudio Goldfinger Statement through the C1000P moving coil phono stage. A couple of days ago I started with a single LP and wound up enjoying a four hour vinyl listening session in the studio with my Ortofon Cadenza Black through the C1000C/P moving coil phono stage. I continue to marvel at the clarity, dynamics, and background silence of this phono stage.

 

[Steve]

Dan.... Yes I have compared the phono stages from both the C1000P and C1000T. It is not possible to give a straight answer as both are exceptional performers in their own right. The 'P' is slightly blacker on quality audiophile pressings and delivers the huge dynamic range of the Goldfinger Statement with a little more authority and boldness. However, the 'T' running quiet Telefunken or Teslas imparts a little more magic and forgiveness. The 'P' requires more break in time to be fair. So, at this juncture, I can say both are equally good depending on listening mood and content being played (pressing quality and genre).

I am considering adding an MHA150 + MHP1000 to the listening position on the other side of the room tethered to the C1000 via another pair of McIntosh Balanced Line Integrators from CDR(5).

With a baby girl on the way, the MHA150 is a thing of beauty that should Trump my current rig for years to come.

That is what I love and respect about the McIntosh brand. Their amplifers are real and honest performers that stand up to the test of time and cost of ownership.

My other findings below, (per October post)

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Re: Tubes vs Solid State - Are we seeing a turning point?

I have had the opportunity to compare the McIntosh C1000P (solid state) and C1000T (tube) against various balanced sources. I was expecting that these pre-amps were very similar according to reviews and posts. They are more than subtly different! A lot can be said about source matching to one, the other or both. I had a preconception of what I thought which sources should perform better with each pre-amp but I was surprised to discover the opposite was true with some sources according to my setup electronics, mood and listening bias.

Amplifiers are McIntosh MC2301s tube driven by ECC801S, Gold Lion KT88 reissues.
The C1000T is driven by Tesla E83CC gold / Telefunken ECC803S.

Same cable comparison, typically Siltech Princess XLR all stages. All components are fully balanced except the turntable.


1. Home Theatre, Burr Brown DACs - ss pre-amp
2. Studer Analogue Tuner - tube pre-amp
3. Studer Tape R2R and cassette - solid state pre-amp for playback
4. MDA1000 DAC - definitely TUBE pre-amp
5. Vinyl, cartridge Clearaudio GoldFinger Statement. - both but need further critical listening time.
6. SACD transport, ESS sabre DAC - ss pre-amp.

Suffice to say each source has its own inherent weaknesses. My sweet spot describes holographic resolution and degree of realism.

I was expecting R2R tape with its huge dynamic range to perform better with a tube pre-amp but so far have found with solid state, tape is blacker and better. Perhaps it's because most tape software was mastered using tube amplification?

I also found that analogue radio was less holographic with solid state pre-amplification. Also unexpected. But I suppose radio in it heyday was designed to be tube driven!

Most surprising was the MDA1000 after re-configuring the C1000C to enable the C1000T balanced DA7 XLR input instead and reassigning the C1000Ps equivalent to another source. The MDA1000 is indeed a special DAC that remains relevant to this day, especially for redbook. This DAC belongs with these pre-amps and the C1000 trio was engineered with that in mind.

BTW, my loudspeakers are Scanspeak coated paper pulp drivers and Scanspeak silk dome tweeters.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The real power is already in the music. Listen to your heart not your dealer's. Happy listening.

Best regards.


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[jdandy]

Steve.......My experience comparing the C1000P and C1000T moving coil phono stages resulted in the same impression of a deeper silence and impressive dynamics with the C1000P. Both phono stages are remarkably good and surpass the performance of many stand alone phono stages I have auditioned. Ultimately for me the C1000P proved to be the most alluring.

Congratulations on the baby girl on the way. She'll be wanting the car keys before you know it.