2. amps-preamps
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Doozy of an amp question

Still looking for my eternal love.

A forever amp. At least for now. I cannot try them out in my system as they are both beasts and it would be a nightmare getting them, paying for an audition and then returning them

I am having to go on instinct.

I have narrowed it down to two very different kinds of amps at two very different price points. And I have chosen these two because of reviews in magazines and the positive comments here and on other forums.

 

My pre is an Arc Ref 10 and my speakers are Dalis.

I am look at a tube Mc 1502 which I can afford right now or a Sim 861 for which I would have to wait to save for.

I realize it’s tube vs SS but both have their positives and a SS can have tube like characteristics which I like.

 

I’ve heard Mcintosh and liked it a lot but never heard this model.

I’ve never heard Sim but the reviews and comments about the 861 have been absolutely rhapsodic. And somebody whose opinion I trust said Sim is an excellent brand. But is this a flavor of the month model?

 

Has anybody heard both these amps. Any thoughts, opinions, advice?

 

 

roxy1927
elliottbnewcombjr
5,461 posts
 

There is no way I would spend that much money, perhaps get lucky with used, let a good find be the determinant.

That SIM 861 is 155lbs shipping weight. They have the pair of Mono Block 400’s, shipping 33 lbs each, and that big MC 1502 is very similar to a pair of MC275’s, split the weight, perhaps start with one Stereo, add the 2nd when another pops up.

My right knee has hurt for years, since the last time I lifted my 80lb McIntosh MC2250 out of a low shelf. I think a 3rd meniscus tear.

 

jl35
4,006 posts
 

Which Dali speakers ?

knotscott
931 posts
 

I'd guess the Mac would be easier to resell if you ever wanted to swap it.

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