Audiophilepure

Used in conjunction with its internal streamer, the DMP-A8 became a potent streaming DAC device. I spent a good chunk of time evaluating the DMP-A8 in its streaming DAC function in this review (connected to Classe CP-700 preamplifier and Krell KAV-2250 amplifier) and came away impressed. In such a function, it was hard to think of other components out there that bested the DMP-A8 in features and performance in the sub-$2,000 price range. The streaming control using the Eversolo app was a delight to use, and the device responded swiftly to the selected playback track through the app. Besides displaying the album cover figure and the track information on the device’s front screen, this information was also displayed in the app, hence eliminating the need for reading the small text on the front display.

https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/moon-110lp-v2

The stereo imaging is accomplished and remains stable even when the music becomes demanding. Overall, insight levels are good, though this isn’t a product that goes out of its way to highlight detail.

Each piece of information is presented in an unforced and subtle manner, meaning that in a short demo it would be easy to conclude that more forward-sounding rivals were more revealing. Give it a longer listen and it becomes clear that the Moon is right up there with the best at the price when it comes to resolution.

This unit has an undemanding nature, which makes it easy to listen to over long sessions. The aforementioned Graham Slee pulls ahead when it comes to dynamic punch and rhythm drive, but the Moon counters with greater refinement and sweeter tonality. The choice comes down to taste and partnering system, rather than a difference in absolute ability.

https://www.hifinews.com/content/mcintosh-c2800

The more I used the C2800, the more I came to appreciate its blend of clarity and focus. Some might prefer a preamp with a simpler specification, or perhaps the multiband equaliser that’s writ large across the solid-state C55, but I have to admit I didn’t use its subtle tone controls beyond a brief period of experimentation to explore their effect. Frankly, I was more than happy with the basic rightness of the C2800’s sound, and the way so much functionality has been packed in seemingly with no deleterious effect on the performance.

‘Real-world’ isn’t a description many would apply to a product costing the thick end of £12,000, and probably requiring a similar amount to be invested in power amplification. However, I think what McIntosh has got here is an exceptional valve preamp with excellent performance, all the inputs almost anyone could ever want, and no sign of valve quirkiness to frighten the horses.