C28 vs. C22

[Guglielmo]

Hi to all!

Since 20 years I use a C28 with a Mc2105 plus a Mc240 in active bi-amp configuration (SS on basses and Tubes on highs). Moreover when listening to headphones (the 90% of my time due to hour and domestic constraints) the 2105 takes care of full range by means of a bypass in the electronic Xover.

The C28 is perfect and recently restored by a specialist and I am very happy of it. Nevertheless my old dream to get an original C22 is presently always strong so I would ask you if the mating with 2105 is suggested. Of course with 240 is the optimum!

Another doubt is that the S/N phono input is worst in C22 so considering that my Turntable sports several low output MCs (Kiseki, Koetsu and SPU) via Uesugi Step-Up transformer I fear that the vinyl front-end could be worsened...

The C22 is very "musical" and better that C28 as soundstage and warmth but I would get your opinion with respect to the C28.

Moreover also the C22 CE seems excellent but I don't like its "modern" circuit implementation like a PC What is your audio feeling with this commemorative edition?

Thanks a lot

Guglielmo

 

[Big Dog RJ]

Hi mate,

Wow, seems you have kept your old McIntosh gear for many years and have enjoyed it apart from their newer models arriving once in a while. What speakers are you using?

I don't have experience with the older gear, but all I can say is that recently I auditioned the C220 connected to the mighty MC601 monoblocks, as well as the beautiful MC275, driving the Sonus Faber Eplisa red's special edition; sound stage was outstanding... to such an effect that this is going to be my second system inspite of already owning Quad ESL's that have one of the best sound stages driven with Conrad Johnson tube amplification.

I have heard many good things about the C22 CE, but have not had a chance to listen to one. Sorry cannot comment more accurate on it's sound. I trust that others on this forum may have experience with the CE version.

Cheers and have a good one.
RJ

 

[flez007]

I had a C26 some many years ago and changed to a C28 for the good. i have friends that own a C22 and swear it is a step above the C28, I would suggest to try first in your system.

 

[davethewave]

How do you like the phono section of your C28 and what cartridge/Turn Table have you used with it?

 

[Carlos Villarreal]

If this helps i had the C27 (SS like your c28) and the original early C22 (tube), the C22 is way better, its phono section, it is tri dimentional and has lower noise floor.