Why do no audio enthusiasts use McIntosh?

They do, many of them.

Lenny

I think many audio enthusiasts use McIntosh, myself included. McIntosh has been in business for well over 50 years and has a huge, devoted customer base. McIntosh gear is some of the most coveted audio equipment on the planet and most buyers purchase it with an eye toward long-term ownership.

Anyone ever see a reputable speaker manufacturer or other high end manufacturer using McIntosh in their demo rooms at any of the shows??? Me neither.

Why do you think that is??

Anyone ever see a reputable speaker manufacturer or other high end manufacturer using McIntosh in their demo rooms at any of the shows??? Me neither.

Why do you think that is??

Because whether or not another manufacturer wanted to exhibit with McIntosh gear, I'm willing to bet that McIntosh doesn't allow it. For confirmation, you could ask them directly.

Of course it is not the only reason. But I think part of it is that owning McIntosh equipment may just be too simple for enthusiasts. Most, not all, enthusiasts want to try different equipment, agonize over their cables, find synergestic components, etc - in other words, most, not all, want to play and have fun with the equipment side of the hobby. I think McIntosh equipment appeals to those who want great sound, a good value, ultra-reliable, minimum "syngery" games, and the enjoy the equipment for the next 20 years. These are not necessarily the goals or drives of enthusiasts. Speaking for myself, I like some alchemy, some worry, some tweaking, some pondering - I think McIntosh is for those for whom this element of the hobby is not a priority. You will hear enthusiasts say they have found their last amp, their last pre-amp, etc. it never happens, it can't hasppen to an enthusiast, but it does appear to happen to happy owners of Mac.