SHANLING MC30 VALVE Hi END MUSIC SYSTEM (from IPL Acoustics)
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IPL Acoustics were looking for a first class valve pre-amp to partner the Alner Hamblin SA400 semi-digital power amplifier. Having read Dave Alcocks glowing review in September 2007 Hi Fi World of the Shanling MC30 we were determined to try one. To say we were impressed was an understatement, the MC30 not only sounds superb, it is beautifully made and comprises;
-A Phillips VAM-1202 laser transport and CD11 servo mechanism with Burr-Brown PCM-1738 DAC as used in many high end Players
-Tuner Am/Fm with 20 pre-sets
-Stand for MP3 player with 3.5mm input socket
-Valve amplifier is single ended using a pair of 6P1 tetrode valves with an output of 3 watts. Has pre-out phono outputs for connection to a Power amplifier if required, and separate input for connection of auxiliary devices. And fully operable remote control.
Although the MC30 is only 3 watts output it will power most speakers to a reasonable level ( If used on its own it will drive the S3tl and S4tl transmission lines to reasonable levels and sound absolutely gorgeous) However it is most at home using the pre-amp output with a high quality power amp such as the Alner Hamblin 500 watt Semi Digital (as sold by IPL Acoustics). This combination is High End at a bargain price giving a large scale ,detailed, open and musical presentation, Using the IPL Transmission Lines the results are quite simply outstanding
Dave Alcock writes in his conclusion: As you can gather the MC30 proved a deeply impressive unit used on its own with sympathetic loudspeakers. Indeed I cannot find a combination of stand alone components at anything like this price which can surpass the MC30s performance. Whilst the MP3 docking facility means losing some iPod functionality, it does mean the MC30 will interface to any MP3 player. and deliver a sound which is very entertaining. Even the FM tuner is more than acceptable given the general sound of FM transmissions in the UK and is light years ahead of any DAB tuner I've heard to date. Best of all, when mated to a power amplifier or used as a source component for larger systems then the MC30 will shock you with focused, dynamic and visceral sound- plus of course that delightful control system and superb remote. Shanling have delivered a stunning unit,
PRICE £750 FREE delivery. Please send cheque made payable to IPL ACOUSTICS at;- IPL Acoustics, Chelsea Villa, Torrs Park, Ilfracombe, Devon EX34 8AY phone 01271 867439. (IPL Acoustics are dealer for Shanling products via Real Hi Fi )