Tube or Solid State

Go with the solid state Mac. The often subtle differences between tubes and SS is the liquidity of the tube sound which I think can be largely lost when you are listening to really loud music, as you seem inclined to do. Now if you maintain a SPL level around 80db and have heard and appreciate the difference between tubes and ss go for the sound you like best. Either of these amps should be able to drive your speakers with comfortable head room for peaks.

I agree with Tvad, watts is watts, BUT I do think that the sound of tubes often has a fullness in the lower frequencies (the 'power frequencies') that may cause one to think they are hearing something more powerful. Not fact, just opinion though.

Tvad: Fair enough. From 95 dB the tube amp has the headroom you suggest.

Newbee: Your statement about the differences between the 2 is a bit of over simplification. I do not want to turn this into another endless debate on tubes vs SS. You are obviously an SS guy and I am a tube guy. All we can probably do is to agree to disagree.

Cheers,
Jim

Actually,no worries the MAC tube amp will meet your needs and provide you with a sound that will exceed your expectations.
This is a personal opinion only,I'm a tube guy and I also prefer red wine over white if you catch my drift.

If you think you'd like tubes I think you should give them a whirl! Mac has great resale, or perhaps your dealer would let you demo them in your system.

If you can get both and compare.Not only for loudness but also for whether you think Usher benefits from tubes.Some speakers it's dramatic others it's not worth the loss in some area's like dynamics or bass control.I sold Mac before 2001 and loved sound of SS gear but have also herd the tube stuff at shop since.But it's your taste and the speaker as well as listening levels.
Chazz