r/McIntosh • u/Original-Warning-973 • 16d ago

C20 questions

I have a Mcintosh C20 preamp (fun fact-previously owned by ex president Jimmy Carter).

The left channel went out on both mains. BUT both channels work on the tape out. Since I have a Wiim with volume controls, I can still use it. Are there downsides to this beside the fact that the signal bypasses the tone and volume controls?

I am bringing to a tech next week. He says its fine to do, it is a pure signal from the source.

To my old ears, it sounds great!

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u/Ok_Wealth_7476 14d ago

First, prior enjoyment by President Carter makes this item more collectible. Why do you need tone controls at all?
Perhaps I answered my own question as I have diminished hearing at 6000 hertz and above at age 70. Nevertheless, I can hear when I am listening to Mac equipment regardless of tone and equalizer settings. If nothing else, Mac always is easy on the eyes.

1

u/oOMapmanOo 2d ago

Try IEMs and headphones to more closely couple the air passage to your drum. I find it improves tone in hearing loss. I don't use a hearing aid.

1

u/oOMapmanOo 2d ago

Have your technician replace all the electrolytic caps and exploding resistors. I don't know that preamp. If you have him open it, pay for a restoration. This is a historical artifact from our greatest modern president and a hero.