Which Preamplifier Should We Use With These Mcintosh 901 Monoblocks?

which preamplifier should we use? this is a very difficult one for me so i need your help deciding !
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#preamplifier
#audioresearch
#highendaudio
#mcintosh
#amplifier
#loudspeaker
#soundsystem

[@jaysaudiolab]

Time for you all to comment below , LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE - so I can release the first videos of the 901 Mcintosh monoblocks - tell me below what preamp I should use!

[@CarlVanDoren61]

Use W4S 10th edition DAC2V2SE Discrete class A output stages 😊

[@julian73de]

The flagship pre from McIntosh

[@lorus009]

Hearing the CH Precision seems more interesting to test in my view. ARC we have heard many times already and you can go back to them if CH is not working well.

[@jiyadas]

Brother I have mentioned this to you earlier McIntosh C12000, Mac pre amps are made for their power amps

[@jaysaudiolab]

I’m with you

[@rfoliente1]

McIntosh sucks. Sorry, but true.

[@InPursuitOfLiberty]

Based on what?

[@jiyadas]

@inpursuitoffreedomandhappi1696 every company uses their own preamp to voice and tune their power amps, there is impedance and a lot of other factors involved between a preamp and power amps. The best match is when you use the same company there is a synergy between the different components from the same brand. Will it work if you mix and match, of course but it is common knowledge that pre and power amps sound best when using the same brand!

[@l.ralphmellon1716]

I have always liked the synergy between McIntosh and ARC.

[@monntrys]

Finally CH Precision in the mix

[@MikeFromAudioExcellence]

We used the C12000 on those (literally) with gorgeous results (i preferred the solid state output as i find tube-on-tube-on-S.Faber a little too smooth). D'agostino's (progression and momentum) as well sounded incredibly good! The MBL 9008 (i think) was great too!

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thanks for sharing

[@rafaelfranco7041]

Interested to see if adding a solid state pre amp will improve over the Horizon direct connection.

[@dragonkabodan]

CH Persision will solve McIntosh weaknesses and enhance MC capabilities and make it shines.

[@marksironi3324]

I've always felt that Audio Research and McIntosh are at opposite ends of the audio spectrum. As I've said before I've known people to like one or the other but never met anyone that likes both. I don't think that's a great match. I've never heard CH Precision but based on what I've heard I'm not sure that would be a great match either. If it were me I'd use the CH Precision because I'd want to bring some resolution, speed, and detail to the presentation to help cut through the typical McIntosh syrup (assuming those amps sound like everything else I've heard from McIntosh). But that's my personal bias for a fast, detailed presentation showing through. If you really want the full McIntosh experience neither of them is a great choice. To give some color, I've always preferred ARC over McIntosh. And last fall I spent a few hours with Boulder 1110/1160 and D'Agostino progression doing a comparison and well, the 1160 is currently sitting in my listening room (finally!) with an 1110 to follow as funds allow. In both cases it was the same logic, ARC felt faster, more detailed, and less colored than McIntosh when I did that comparison and Boulder felt faster, more detailed, and less colored than D'Agostino.

[@BlueSilvertone]

Thanks for all your hard work, Jay !! I think you’re sitting on the preamp shoot out that could break the internet 😮 : Soulution 727 vs CH Precision 😊

[@KT88gs]

When i hear tubes i want solid state/When i hear solid state i want tubes-to be honest it drives me cracy,i can not choose!On this subject there is no winner,its just what suits you the best.

[@umitbey4852]

I have used the audio research vsi 75 model before, it had a 6h30 tube preamp section, these special tubes are not the best in top end detail but it had incredibly magical musicality and the truest midrange I have ever heard, you should try audio research as a preamp.

[@ridirefain6606]

Since I own its older sister, I am biased toward the ARC Ref6SE. I think it would mate well with the McIntosh since like most of their tube Preamps it is designed to give inner detail over an elevated midrange and sparkle on vocals. Yet retains a lot of that flesh on the bone presentation valve-based components have. Caveat of course is as you already know, are the tubes. If they are not broken in or are getting tired, it will not give an accurate depiction of the 901's true nature. So, I hope your Ref6 has had some time to settle in. The CH is a product I am interested in. Since I never been able to audition one, I am not qualified to comment on it. I do use valve pre and amps for a reason though. I like the harmonics better out of those designs. Despite my tastes I do find that on recordings they cannot get as deep into the weeds as an outstanding SS unit can. As always, the best choice is the one that suits your preference. Hopefully you will get some time to try both for a little bit and make a decision to which one to use in order to evaluate the 901's.

[@kenbeckman4948]

The CH Precision sounds awesome so far as I heard one of your shorts I was quite surprised how much better it sounds than going DAC direct. WOW

[@chuanyewlee9502]

Not often do we think of partnering a world class solid state preamp with a pair of tube poweramps but this is something you can do in your lab. My sense is that you may find the CH precision preamp tonal neutrality, speed and rhythm causing the McIntosh 901s to sound a tad slow in terms of the bass and lower mids. I would go with the AR preamp but as you rightly said the 800 hrs of mileage on the tubes could conjure up some interesting listening results. Whatever you choose to do I think you're going to have some fun in the lab.

[@ckdamoneking9622]

I would love to hear the CH Precision because I have really wanted to hear that brand. Read a lot about it and I am very curious. I know Audio Research already (very good brand) so having that new experience from something unknown to my ears would be super awesome! Loving the vids Jay!👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@stifoli]

Great video!

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thanks!

[@joelanderson7973]

ref 6 sounds like a good idea, but I would go with CH prec. can't go wrong!

[@thierry9896]

Thanks you for your work and sharing it with us.

[@jaysaudiolab]

My pleasure!

[@hectoralvarez941]

I would use both behind the scenes and present your choice for best noise

[@jaysaudiolab]

No time

[@francisdelacruz6439]

Audio Research usually just adds something that makes a system great. Cheers.

[@ChicagoRob2]

100% agree

[@jaysaudiolab]

Very true!

[@EPA00001]

Hi Jay, I would go for the ARC Ref-6 SE. ARC and Sonus Faber were always a good match. ARC has that addictive bloom that it brings to the music. CH precision is a brand I also like, but their sound might be a bit too analytical in your system. But it could also be a perfect match since the DAC and Amps are already outfitted with tubes. Your ears will tell you which is best but being a long-time ARC fan and customer my choice would be the ARC Ref-6 SE. Enjoy the comparison of two great pre-amps. 👍

[@InPursuitOfLiberty]

I love the McIntosh 901 monoblocks. While there are a number great quality amps, preamplifiers and speakers, I think my journey will end with ATC active 100's and a great amplifier. I'm done spending big $$$ on components and speakers when all you need is a great active spkr with its own built-in tri-amp for a fraction of the price. Can't decide over a tube or solid state preamplifier? Look into Canada's Angela-Gilbert Yeung C312 preamplifier or his other builds. His preamplifiers paired with the ATC active spkrs are an entirely different level and for a fraction of what you'll normally pay.

[@rrd1975]

Jay, you've got a damn if you do, damn if you don't kind of situation here. I guess the answer depends on your feelings about the current sound and configuration with the Macs and other tube components in the system. Is the sound to your liking, or do you want more warmth and sweetness? Would adding the Audio Research preamp be too much of a good thing, or maybe the CH solid state preamp will add more resolution and clarity? Is the bass extension and control excellent or do you feel that there's more to be had from those 15" bass drivers? Good luck!

[@jeffreythurston1822]

Both of those will be fun to try. But the C12000 is the perfect match for those amps. You can choose tube or SS with that preamp.

[@rickobel3462]

Another vote for the C12000. My recommendation is made based on my personal experience with my system, which has a pair of your amps (the 901s) with the C12000 preamp (and it is interesting to note that some music sounds better with the solid state section, other with the tube section, and it is nice to be able to flip back and forth). My speakers are different, though -- B&W 801D4.

[@omgwtfpwnd]

The C12000 measures like their other McIntosh solid state counterparts. In fact, the "tubes" in modern McIntosh acts in a solid state, rather than early vintage tube McIntosh that uses a tube rectifier instead of a solid state. Even still, I've done ABX comparisons with young people (like myself) that never abused their ears and there was never any indication of a discernible difference. The same goes for cables.

[@audiorick841]

Sounds like you already have both. Let’s do a shootout 😃

[@ity1311]

Usually tubes are better at the pre section for giving that tube flavor without running so hard and so hot. Ss are better for power. More stable and consistent and sound better. Usually.... When you using that solid state pre, you kind of doing it upside down But it's just in theory I whish i could hear it there with you... Thanks for your good work and reviews 👍

[@fasteddie2413]

My Ref 6 did not pair well with my Mac 601's. Not exact same equipment but just my impression.

[@mikkohautala550]

What about leting us know your thoughts about the Lampizator?

[@Yiannis2112]

How many albums did you listen to or bought if you like, so far this year?

[@gmrvos58]

I would be somewhat concerned about the ARC/McIntosh match here with the output impedance of the Ref6 at 600ohm and the input impedance of the MC901 at 22kohm. Obviously, it may be work generally I prefer a higher input impedance on my amps with ARC preamps. Obviously, specs aren't the only thing that matters so I'll be interested to hear how each sounds for sure.

[@buddyhume9297]

Jay the boxes are taking over your room!

[@jaysaudiolab]

I agree man. I gotta take to my storage soon. I haven’t had time

[@robvandendolder3157]

I would have thought that the most neutral preamplifier would allow the 901s to show their sound, hence maybe the C1 or if still available to you a Boulder 2110. Mind all should sound great 😎👍

[@user-tq9ri6wo1k]

Hi Jay, i am Patrick ,a 70 y-o audiophile from Martnique, french West-Indies.. If i were in your shoes i would privilege the CH Precision for its control , grip, linearity on the tube section (I do not know how it would fare with the Solid state amp).The Audio Resaerch preams is not bad per se but as you said too many tube would not do the trick. Tubes of different makes or brands seldom mate well. Take care , hope I have been of some help. Regards! Patrick

[@ayewhite333]

CH precision gets my vote

[@ac81017]

800 hours is good, they need at least 200-300 hours just to burn in. I use A Mcintosh power with ARC, they sound amazing together.

[@john-ez4iw]

I can't speak for the CH but I have a Ref6SE paired with MC 611's driving Magico's and it is wonderful match.

[@L7F0X]

my personal experience from mix & match always return to mcintosh tube preamp for their monoblocks.

[@almac2323]

Jay what is you thoughts on Hifi Rose? Do you consider them high end music streamers!

[@alanmcivor2916]

I would vote for the CH Precision for its transient speed and "sparkle'. (compliments the Mac)

[@keeferdog5617]

I told you in an earlier vid SF LOVES tubes. The thought or notion there are “too many tubes” in the signal path is horseshit. I’ve run a tube dac, a tube-pre to a tube-amp with outstanding results for years. Not the biggest fan of AR’s pc boards, dig the point to point build myself. CH Precision makes incredible gear. The Swiss (CH, Stenheim etc) are killing it these days. Have fun

[@montanausa329]

If you could build a price doesn’t matter stereo system what would it be. For me it would be Wilson wamm, boulder 3000 monos preamp Clearaudio statement, dad cd player reel to reel not sure what about you?

[@tomdebeck8150]

CH. Hybrid combi seems interesting. Solid state pre could add more life, more drive.

[@Krol_Artur]

The best set is Ch precision L10 x 2. Of the two to choose from, Ch precision L1+X1.

[@mauriciojv7901]

Jay, what are those silver discs you use on top of your equipments ?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Decoration

[@mauriciojv7901]

@@jaysaudiolab I´m serious, no anti vibration or anti noise induction of some sort ?

[@elderinmoi1571]

It surely is ~ and it works. But not always for the better. I am curious to know, too, what brand they are.

[@elderinmoi1571]

It can’t be 100 percent tube because the 901 is a hybrid 😅. But from my experience the best tube pre amplifier better the best solid state ones. Not in terms of absolute precision but for live like magical sound. Try both. By the way what are these door stoppers ? I know they are for resonance control and must be special and I am really interested in buying some myself.

[@jeromelester8]

I wouldn't use the ARC REF6 SE in combination with the McIntosh. Don't get me wrong, a Audio Research preamp combined with Dan D'acostino monoblocks is a stunning dream combo, but I don't think it works well with the MacInstosh - especially for the sound, that you're looking for. The X1 is my choice.💪

[@brown-eyedman4040]

Ah, choices. My choices? ARC. Pros: Glorious tube sound, tubes. Cons: Tubes. No doubt tubes have a sound, but once broken in they stay stable for years. And small signal tubes, like in a pre-amp should last decades. CH Precision no doubt makes incredible gear. Can't think of any cons. I'm making a purely emotional decision. And of course, I haven't heard either.

[@robfrancis8690]

CH Precision is one of the best brands in the world. I sense you'll love that combo with the Big Macs, though Audio Research is a master preamp builder. Tough choice. I'd have to wait to hear the differences.

[@petekutheis3822]

Let's hear the AR. Just because they USED to be in the same audio group---there still might be existing synergies. Myself I am using some 75 monoblocks driving the highs, a Class D for the mid range, subwoofers for the lows...and the preamp is a tubed C2500.

[@perfectsoundpursuit007]

Please use Audio Research, i am courious if you like warm sound and how is the stage. BR

[@Random-kq4pz]

Because Mac's are normally on the warm side, i suggest a preamp leaning the other way. That way you end up in the middle.

[@yurifrags7564]

REF 6SE brother all the way 💪

[@paulhovenga4138]

I think the CH would do best. A reference and neutral component. Can't say that about the REF 6SE..

[@geir8849]

CH Precision!

[@ivanfilatov7913]

CH Precision. I like insane detail, sparkly highs etc. Not a fan of warm sound.

[@user-my9hw1ku9t]

The obvious Choice is the Macintosh C12000 where you can operate from tube or solid state. Other than that, the VAC Statement PreAmp.

[@jaysaudiolab]

You didn’t answer the question I asked 😂

[@justinpaslay7322]

Thrax Audio Libra 300B preamplifier.

[@gadymarcus2362]

Bello/Magnifico.🏆✡️✡️✡️✡️✡️✡️

[@ngalloy8696]

😊in just Micro SEC Finally 2024 release of all 5000 set 1980s Top Gun Limited Edition score Super Super Rare AutoGraphs & all CD copy all Already Sold out in just less then 3month all Gone.😮 luckily Jays Audio got his Fast Grab Quicker!! Very Rare set.😊

[@user-vr3sq1kq6i]

The industry has almost entirely abandoned the budget to moderate cost offerings to chase Oligarchs.

[@lbrizzle18]

My guess is the ARC will have better vocals and overall synergy. The CH may have more weighty bottom end.

[@nilsshams.4900]

I think Audio Research Ref 6SE will be an ideal match with your McIntosh amps. Because both of them are tubes and U.S.A. made!! So tone will be similar, I guess. CH - Precision is a solid state pre amp and Swiss made. So the tone will be totally different. It's known for fast, transparent, attack & lean. So I think it's not gonna be an ideal match with McIntosh monos. So go for Audio Research. Thanks 😊

[@johnshaw359]

Either, as you have a hybrid power amp, it would be difficult to know. I'm not a fan of the idea of the hybrid power amp to begin with.

[@jaysaudiolab]

I am

[@briansellden6115]

Do I detect a shootout coming?

[@jaysaudiolab]

No sir. No time 😂

[@jaysullivan9545]

In my opinion, the two preamps are oil and water. The CH is, imo, in a different league than the ARC. I think the more apples to apples would be to use the ARC. However, it would be very interesting to at least try the CH.

[@jaysaudiolab]

I can only do one. Don’t have time

[@jaysullivan9545]

ARC

[@salvadorrodenas3071]

I have five preamps, all from Sony. The most expensive one weighs almost 40 kilograms in its cardboard carton. The second best only 25 kilograms

[@carlosescarfullery5461]

CH Precision

[@palu8653]

Hola!! deberias usar el preamplificador C12000!!

[@jaysaudiolab]

Está a la venta

[@palu8653]

​@@jaysaudiolabdisfruta las MC901 son una maravilla!! Saludos Cordiales!!

[@mordante01]

CH all the way.

[@kelopilwemoloisane9692]

CH please

[@chewy560]

Why not compare solid state vs tubes.

[@eierchopf1]

CH Precision 🇨🇭

[@fancythings]

What’s the problem of trying both? You’re in the lucky position to have both in your lab. Isn’t it the goal in a lab to try out as many as possible…? But if only one option: go with the Audioresearch, it’s totally attractive to build a system just or mainly based on tubes. See in your case it’s not just single ended 300B, you have lots of power based on tubes standing in the lab. Go for it, the disadvantages of lacking bass and so on is probably here or will definitely come but what you receive in terms of quality in the mid and highs will melt you down 😅

[@jaysaudiolab]

The problem with trying both is nothing but if we are talking doing it right then I don’t have time for it

[@jiyadas]

Wanted to add that you need a tube pre amp and not from Audio Research paired with a McIntosh. The CH will definitely not be a good match

[@mrlinde6518]

C12000

[@davidkuntz4295]

Boulder 3110.

[@fernandomunozalonso8506]

We’ve never seen your gadgets working… are they paper made ?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Huh

[@khaido7341]

Mac with Mac.

[@timkneer9880]

C12000, then experiment.

[@user-nf4ob5rq4o]

Mc12000

[@cdgerhart]

I think its safe to assume Jay has quit his workforce job.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Lo😂

[@dennishorsthuis1507]

CH

[@salvadorrodenas3071]

Very soon you won't have room for you. Everything else is top.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Yep

[@DW11111]

McIntosh is still requiring any new employee to get the "safe and effective" jab as a condition of employment. So my vote for a preamp is "none of the above" and not even give them another second of promotion.

[@oohtob6685]

I find it bizarre. 1.2k views and only 171 likes. Its not difficult to tap the like button. Even if you tap on a subject im not keen on I'll still like on my way out. Great channel.

[@jaysaudiolab]

I find it odd too..😂

[@thierry9896]

Audio research, more musicallity.

[@bradessendon05]

Common sense would say stick with Mcintosh.

[@jaysaudiolab]

It’s sealed in a box

[@rfoliente1]

The problem isn't the preamp, it's the 901s. The McIntosh need to be retired already.

[@daveuk1324]

Go CH - try something new. Be daring.

[@statusnine9491]

CH Precision

[@yondahwav1212]

CH