Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: McIntosh C712 Preamplifier (SS) by carbonman

Model:	C712
Category:	Preamplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$1500
Description:	Simple active preamplifier with awesome sound
Manufacturer URL:	McIntosh
Manufacturer URL:	McIntosh

Review by carbonman ( A ) on January 28, 2003 at 23:15:32
IP Address: 142.173.21.140

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I've been the very pleased owner of a McIntosh C712 preamp for about 8 years. This is a wonderful, neutral sounding component in my audio chain.
While it was in for service once (panel bulbs, solder type), I plugged my CAL CL-10 CD changer directly into my McIntosh MC7270 amp. There was very little difference in sound and clarity. When the C712 came back, I happily put it back in its' place of honor. After a few minutes, the miniscule difference in sound was forgotten.
When new, this was an expensive, solidly built piece of fine audio equipment. In comparison to any preamp from any manufacturer of the same vintage, I'll put my bets with the little Mac. Other brands may come close, but my C712 will still sound as good 10 years from now. Not many products hang in so well.
I love the flexible controls, including tone controls and a mono switch for 78s and cartridge azimuth adjustment. The phono section is quiet, smooth and detailed enough for me. This is tube sound with solid state punch and reliability. My wife understands how to operate the controls, the size isn't intimidating and it has an understated presence in our living room (the big blue meters on the MC7270 scream 'LOOK AT ME!' though). The remote has a solid feel and works over a broad angle to the sides.
I compared it to the 'big' McIntosh preamps. To my ears, there was almost no difference. Especially when you look at the price difference!
I just can't get excited by any other preamp that I read about, see or hear. For me, that's the mark of a component that does its' job extremely well. All it makes me want to do is play music.
McIntosh no longer makes a compact preamp, so if you're in the market for a great little Mac product, consider one of these used. They build their products to sound the same when they are 20 years old, as when they were new.
I love my preamp!

Product Weakness: Bulbs have to be changed by technician (solder connection).
Remote can't be programmed to operate other devices.
Product Strengths: Works flawlessly, sounds great, looks great, straightforward to use.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	McIntosh MC7270 - 270 W/ch.
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	McIntosh C712
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Thorens TD126 Mk.III with mahogany plinth, Ortofon Super OM40 cartridge for LPs, Stanton 681EEE with 78 stylus for old jazz
Speakers:	Joseph Audio RM25si - cherry finish
Cables/Interconnects:	Kimber 8PR biwired, Belden 89259 with Bullet plugs for CD and amp/preamp, Audioquest Diamondback for TT/preamp
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	rock, jazz, blues, world beat
Room Comments/Treatments:	70 pound dog
Time Period/Length of Audition:	8 years
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Tripplite Isobar 8 Ultra surge suppressor
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Bulbs have to be changed by technician (solder connection). Remote can't be programmed to operate other devices.
Product Strengths:	Works flawlessly, sounds great, looks great, straightforward to use.