Vintage vs. new McIntosh amps long
Some background first. My system consists of a Basis 2001/Graham 2.2/Benz Micro Ruby 3 and a Rega Planet as sources. A Pass Xono, c-j PF2 and c-j MF2200 are the electronics driving B&W N802s. All except the Xono I've had for 8+ years. I really have no experience with other electronics on the 802s. I had always planned to replace the c-j gear with something more on par with my analog rig and speakers. I listen to LPs 90% of the time and mainly to jazz, rock, blues, classical and acoustic instrumental.
Posts I've read recommended McIntosh amps as good matches for the N802s. I was able to borrow a friends vintage 70's MC 2205. The authority it drives the 802's woofers with really put my c-j to shame. Much deeper and solid bass resulting in a larger soundstage. It also takes the stridency out of the sound I've been fighting for longer than I care to remember.
Unfortunately, the amp has some condition issues. The meters illuminate but don't work, the power mode lights don't light so I can't say that circuitry works for sure. Add a fair amount of rust on the chassis and silkscreen lettering issues. Can't say I'm thrilled with the wimpy power cord, speaker terminal strips or the input connectors. But man it sings, and if I forgo remote volume control, I wouldn't need a preamp since it has individual volume controls.
Now my question. What differences in sound can I expect between a vintage amp like this vs. a newer Mac - say something built in this millenium? It appears to me Mac experienced something of a revival since the dog years after they were sold. I'm trying to decide if it's worth living with a known vintage piece with it's issues and or buying new.
Relax, have a Dogfish Head 90-minute IPA and listen to Harry James....
