2. amps-preamps
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Tube or SS

Opinions please: For a variety of reasons I decided to declutter and simplify my life and thus sold my turntable, my LP's, my CD's and most of my all valve system - except for the McIntosh 275 amp.   my current set up comprises a Cambridge NQ streamer through balanced connects to the Mac and Harbeth C7 ES-3 speakers.  Now, Harbeth recommend using SS amps and I am considering replacing the Mac with the Cambridge Edge W power amp as the two items are designed to work together.  My dealer won't allow me a home demonstration to allow me to compare the amps without actually purchasing the Cambridge ( would give me a refund if I don't like it )  Before I take this route I would appreciate any comments regarding the suitability of either streamer/amp combination.
Thanks all
xiang
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
I've got an MC225,240,and 275, all lined up. They look pretty cool..
They are all visually sweet as could be. 8.8-9.8. I have an MC275 GG CE also...Different as could be the two models. Sonicaly they are Macs..

275 is a powerful amp.... Push some very hard load. Get hot but chugs right along.... YEARS..... 1962 or 4. I like them coupled with a Mac. C20 all fixed up.. Newer C25-2700. wonderful units. they just work better.

Regard..
ei001h
290 posts
 
without any doubt, id say keep the tubes
fredcdobbs
128 posts
 
I swore I wouldn't go back to tubes, but just ordered a Muzishare X7 from amazon for $1300. This one has a great review on Youtube from Zero Fidelity. Also well reviewed is the Willsonton amp and the Musical Paradise amps. All of these putting out 45-55 watts tube power.
I just can' pass on the seductive richness and vivid sound of tubes. 

sandthemall
544 posts
 
Yes,
Side by side comparison before you pull the trigger. It would be great to know how the 275s held up.
richdirector's avatar
richdirector
269 posts
 
The 275 is powerful enough for any harbeth..... 
I simplified myself getting rid of monoblocks pre seperate phono and got a SS luxman 550ax2 which is class A.

A bit of that magic middle that tubes always gave..... 
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