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McIntosh Mc202 or Conrad Johnson MF2300a amp?

I've narrowed down my amp selection to one of these. I require at least 200 watts, which both provide. I've heard the MAC (like the sound) but don't have the opportunity to listen to CJ. I like musical, warm open sound, good bass punch, dynamic, and some detail but not overly detailed. Can you suggest one over the other and why based on performance and not cost?

They will be paired with a Cary tube preamp.
chad329
mechans
3,048 posts
 
The Mac will give you a slightly more defined sound but either will give you a musical style presentation. The Mac I think sounds a bit more dynamic as well if that is important.
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
My experience has been the opposite Mac is dry and sterile while cj is very musical .. I like Mac because it looks cool while cj is kind of bland in the looks department.
chad329 OP
13 posts
 
Yes, dynamics are important. I would like some life and not a dull/flat sound. The McIntosh 2205 for example, is too smooth and dull to my ears. The newer Mac amps sound much better IMO.
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Can't speak for the Mac, but though the c-j ss amp isn't quite as neutral as some others, it's still a delightful amplifier. Without knowing your speakers, etc., it's all rather moot.
lapierre
547 posts
 
Chad what speakers are you using?

The MC202 has peak output current of 50 amperes per channel. I never look at watts but more on the ability to deliver more current into low impedance loads. CJ rated 240 watts but not sure the current output for load of 4 ohms.

MC fan myself but I like the older CJ amps.
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