2. amps-preamps
  3. 1140525094

Considering a MAC

Hello,

It's time for corporate bonuses and I'm considering the possibility of getting a older McIntosh Power Amp and adding it to my system. I'd have to use the pre-outs of my Cambridge Audio A500 until I save for a Preamp or Preamp/Tuner; but I'm being lured by the light (blue as it may be ;-) )

In particular, I'm looking at the 502, 2505, or a MACSound Reciever to replace the A500. I know a dealer in my area who has fixed MAC for over 30 years who will restore it to factory specs fairly cheaply.

Thoughts ??

Marty
afro18
ecruz
402 posts
 
I know a lot of people like Mac's, but for my money and ears, there are better amps out there. I tried a 2505 and for about the same price as my McCormack DNA 0.5 there was no comparison. Not even in the same league. But try it for your self. The beauty of buying used is you don't lose much money if you don't like it and decide to sell.
bigjoe's avatar
bigjoe
693 posts
 
first off let me say that i own mcintosh gear & i always will own mac gear,i dont want you to think im just bashing mcintosh but the 2 amps your looking at are horrible & not as good as a $99 audiosource amp from best buy.

unless your looking for a good paper weight stay as far away from the mc2505 & the mc502 as you can.
afro18 OP
51 posts
 
Thanks for all the input....

Bigjoe,

If the MAC's above are bad, which (inexpensively) are good? Also, is the audiosource ANY good?? Maybe I should just start there?

Thanks,

Marty
aball
2,018 posts
 
Yeah, Joe is right. The models you are looking at are decades old and time has moved forward since then when it comes to trasistors, capacitors, rectifiers, etc.

The 2505 is 30 years older than a DNA 0.5! You can't compare them whatsoever.

The MC7100 sounds great but doesn't have meters. The MC7200 (which I have) is fantastic. So is the MC2002 though it is hard to find. None of these amps have autoformers so they are the least expensive - but don't see that as a negative. The 7200 is one of the best sleeper amps so I would recommend you look for one of those. It is hugely powerful too.

Arthur
More to discover