Why do no audio enthusiasts use McIntosh?

I am a new Mc owner and just read all of this interesting thread. I can't comment on alot of the other gear that has been listed, but I can comment on what I own. I don't really consider myself an audiophile, but I do love good music. My problem is not knowing what sounds good to me, it is my very meager finances. Too many teenage kids and not enough income. I have tried to choose wisely in what I could afford, which was around $1000 for amp and speakers.

Anyway, I found locally 2 Mc MC40 monoblocks (yes, I know they are from the 60's) from a local expert tech. They have been his personal amps for the last 25 years. I also picked up a pair of Altec Model 17's (6048G's) 100db/watt/meter. I know these aren't regarded as audiophile gear by alot of uppercrust folks, but the music these put out is awesome to my ears. I love my Mc's and my Altecs. Total cash outlay was $750. I would gladly have a shootout with anyone elses $750 system.;o) I know most of you paid more for your cables than I have in my system, which I have no problem with, I would have spent more if I could. The point I am trying to make is we need to support everyone who has an interest in this wonderful hobby. When I have asked questions on here, rarely do people comment. Why is that? Am I too bottom crust since I can't afford the latest and greatest? Do I think McIntosh is the best? No. But it was the best I could afford and I love it. This hobby has way to many elitest that drive lots of people away. I still think it's all about the music, and my old vintage system makes great music to my ears. We need to support each other, especially the newbies. Yes, I am a newbie, but this is my perception of alot of what I read here.

Not intended to slam anyone, just hoping you very knowledgeable folks will take a newbie under your wing and help him enjoy his quest for better music.

Rant over, carry on!! ;o)

Peace out!!!

Holy crap! you got MC40s + speakers for $750!! Have you seen what MC40s can go for on Ebay or Agon? Man, I wish I could have gotten as luck as you. You can upgrade speakers and CD player for a LONG time before those amps will become the limiting factor. Many people would consider you elitest for having those amps!

Also, as a newbie, be careful not to trust your judgement too much. I found out through lots of experimentation that opinions are a moving target.

Aball, yeah I realize I got really lucky on the Mc's and speakers. I did do alot of looking, talking to people and following up on leads, but it seems to have paid off. I guess it goes to show that a blind squirrel does find an acorn every once in a while. I don't know if the upgrade bug will hit me, but for now, I am very happy with what I hear.

Take care!!

Guys,
I have always had a pre-conceived opinion about Mc products.My Cary dealer also carries Mcintosh products-I sneered at him (within myself)for suggesting a Mcintosh monobloc.
A few months ago I listened to the mc 501s.They were just fantastic.I have listened to other reference components before.The new generation Mcs are something different.I dont want people to miss out on a good product because of snobbery and pre-conceived ideas.IMO Mc 501s are in the league of Krell,PLinius,Classe Omega,etc
My experience and hence my opinion is limited to the MCintosh amps alone.I dont know how their CDPs perform.

Wwwrecords, because you DO know what sounds good to you, your system will be far better than most who have spent more either trying to impress someone (themselves), or believing salesmen or reviewers. Enjoy what you have. I have only one rule: If it draws me more into the music, I'll buy it. Good luck.