I have had the STR Preamp for almost a year and like it a lot. The room correction is cleaner than other units I’ve tried, and I do like the way it looks. Anthem is a bit slow fixing bugs in the software, but still it is quite usable and gives good results.
As to the power amp, I auditioned an X250.8 and liked it a great deal, too (driving my Janszen Valentinas), but I couldn’t take the heat (400w at idle). I imagine the 350.8 must be even hotter. Maybe you have a big or open enough room so that doesn’t matter, or live in cold, foggy Sea Ranch like Nelson Pass. The Pass to my ears was a bit midrange forward, and that midrange was smooth and creamy. Especially great with vocals. I have not heard the McIntosh. You are in an enviable position. Have fun!
As to the power amp, I auditioned an X250.8 and liked it a great deal, too (driving my Janszen Valentinas), but I couldn’t take the heat (400w at idle). I imagine the 350.8 must be even hotter. Maybe you have a big or open enough room so that doesn’t matter, or live in cold, foggy Sea Ranch like Nelson Pass. The Pass to my ears was a bit midrange forward, and that midrange was smooth and creamy. Especially great with vocals. I have not heard the McIntosh. You are in an enviable position. Have fun!