McIntosh Guy Going Tubes? (Maybe?)

I could not accommodate a pair of MC601's so I'm running an MC452.  I believe both amps have "the best of both worlds", the "warm" sound that usually goes with tube amps, but the "speed" of solid state.

The only problem I can see with going to a C2600 with Gold Lions might be the stress on your facial muscles...controlling the "jaw dropping" response when that preamp breaks in!

If I were going to go to tubes I would trade in my MC452 and get the MC275. I doubt I will any time soon, because I like my 452. I’ve had tubes before (ARC) and they are great, but solid state tends to be more reliable and I like that. If you can, borrow a 275 from a Mac dealer and try it. It will sound different, and only you can decide if it floats your boat. Generally speaking, the tube amp will probably have a smoother top end and warmer, more refined midrange. Probably not as much bass, and won’t play as loud. Kinda depends on your speakers, I’m not familiar with yours. I would rather have your 601s, but that’s just me.

tlong1958,
One of my audio buddies swapped out his MC452 for one MC275 and found (for him) it didn't have enough "horsepower".  He purchased a second MC275, running them each as a "monoblock" and that put a smile on his face.  Being retired and using his system several hours per day, he's now complaining about the cost of replacing tubes on the MC275s.  One thing to think about, when going to a tube power amp.

I had an MC275 VI with a C1100 and found the match really wonderful.  The C1100 is dead quiet and cast a wonderful soundstage.  If you have the budget, don't need the built-in DAC and have space for a two box setup, I highly recommend an audition. 

Not sure if the MC30s have enough horsepower , but obviously nobody posting here has heard them . I could be wrong, But anyone who has heard them should understand . They sound much better than any of the other candidates mentioned especially the MC275 Go check out he Steve Hoffman forums
http://forums.stevehoffman.tv/
or Jeff days forums at Jeff's Place 
http://jeffsplace.me/wordpress/