Why do no audio enthusiasts use McIntosh?

Here are 4 possible reasons, the actual answer to your question Tim might be a combination of the 4 reasons or might be something else altogether:

1 - Mac make some really good sounding gear (MC500 mono's, 275 re-issue, even the 252 sounds good), but they also make some rough sounding gear too, like the 6500 and 6900 integrateds, and some of their tube amps. Having rough gear in your portfolio doesn't help when you're trying to sell the good gear (image / perception).

2 - styling isn't to everyone's tastes, it's almost military looking.

3 - Mac gear appeals more to the older generation and relies on 'nostalgia' to sell.

4 - People who frequent sites like audiogon are often in a constant state of flux with their systems and they're in here looking for the latest/greatest deals. Maybe Mac owners are just so damned satisfied with their gear and they're sitting at home listening to great music.

They are just possibilities to think about. I don't want to debate why I think the 6500 and 6900 don't sound very good.

Rooze

Well, I was 23 years old when I got my first McIntosh. That was 4 years ago. I love the sound, the looks, and the presence McIntosh gear has. If you don't like it, look elsewhere.

Not everyone likes the same thing. Why is that so hard to understand?? I am amazed how there is so much "mine is best so yours is crap" attitude around here.

Personally, I don't spend much time in audio forums anymore. Rooze is right with that comment. It used to be fun until I realized there is no absolute like some make you think. Now when I browse posts, I generally laugh and shake my head. So many people have no confidence in their opinion. I find that strange but, hey, whatever floats your boat.

Arthur

Can't believe this came back from late 01(hard to believe how the years just seem to fly by!), and yet still no "answer"- damn it!

LOL!!!

McIntosh is similiar to Timex...."It takes a licking but keeps on ticking" so to speak. Mac gets its fair share of barbs for its audio, but from what pieces I've listened to they aren't all that bad; further, Mac gear can be handed down to your grandchildren and still produce to its rated specs. My best Bud has 27year old Mac gear that is a pleasure to sip and listen to all evening. Looking at prices of his Mac gear here on A'gon....he can almost break even on some units or make money on others if he sold his system compared to what he paid for it 27yrs ago...Now, that is saying something again isn't it!! So Mac gear must be crap..right?

Come to think of it...Mac hasn't been sold, folded, merged, kicked into Retail...down capped, or even transferred to China like so much of our other "High End" stuff has suffered over the past few years. Now that says a lot also...doesn't it?