System synergy or mix and match

Do you have any friends with a nice preamp or a dealer that would allow you to audition one? That is the only way that you will know how well it will integrate into your system.
Yes there is something to be said about brand synergy to some degree but look at what the  speaker and accessory Manufacturers are using at shows like Axpona.  Most have an assortment of different gear. Specifically chosen to showcase their products.
If status quo and bragging rights are high on your priority list then go with Mac. If music is your goal, then have fun and experiment. 
My 2 cents FWIW

Thx JD....good call...bragging rights don't enter into it....all about the music.  I have a bud with a rebuilt, old school Counterpoint line stage...we are going to audition that soon.  I see Counterpoint got some nice reviews.  Looking forward to the journey!

Yes, Counterpoint is a good one. I have a fully tricked out Audio Horizons that sounds very good. It has replaced an Aesthetix Calypso and was a nice upgrade from it. The fellow that I got the AH pre from replaced it with an Allnic which is a VERY nice piece. 
There are many other nice ones such as Audio Research Reference series, Conrad Johnson, Cary 05 and more. And then comes the tube rolling.
Have fun and enjoy your trials.
As Dick Olsher says "A day without music is like a black and white sunset".