Why No McIntosh Recommendations?

This topic has been discussed ad nuseam. A quick search on “Autoformers” would be more helpful than rehashing this topic once again. 

I have to agree with a few previous posters, when I've heard macs in stores or homes of friends they just seemed lifeless. When are least the mac amps were switched out then the music came alive. 

MC2600 owner here. Their tube gear is excellent. Not the last word in resolution but if you are seeking some tube warmth while preserving bass slam then a McIntosh tube preamp is hard to beat sonically. Goldilocks coloration when rolled with the right tubes of your taste.

Are they expensive for what what they do? Yes!

Do guests think you have a great stereo when they see ARC - no ( unless they are audiophiles themselves).

Do guests drool over a McIntosh meters and blue & green lights? Yes!

Mcintosh are kind of the Harley Davidson or Rolex of Audio. Not technically superior machines to everything else but highly desirable - well made with great looks and great McIntosh vintage sound! Folks will crowd round and look at McIntosh gear just as they do a nice Harley.

Eye Candy? Overpriced? Absolutely. Good quality machines? Yes, they are! 

I dig Harley’s, could see myself with a C2600 but a Rolex...no way!!!!  They are just ugly 😊