I've used Mac gear from birth, seems like. I can't remember when Mac wasn't in the house. My folks had a console with a MR7X, C20, MC240 and a Thoren 124. That was the early 60s.
My first system, was a pair of MC20s pulled from a console, a pair of C4s and Jensen Imperial Horns. Worked all year and summers to pay for it all, 51 chevy PU could just fit the whole thing in. HUGE hand made speakers from plans at a local cabinet maker.. Wonderful sound.. 50+ years with Mac, just love um'.
The more you have the more you want... 20 pieces later...LOL
I admit though some Mac gear, just had to go... Usually SS Amps stuff.
1.2ks and 600s both had to go.. Something about planars and Macs.
Just don't work for me..Great resale...
I can listen to my C20, MC225 (or MC240) and a pair of Infinity RS4B (talk about old) all day long. Serious SQ from that combo.. BTW that MC225, was used 2 months and stored until I got it, 45 years later, from an estate sale. It's just now broke in after two years, of 10 hrs a week or so.. Perfect as it can be original tubes..RCA Mcintosh...9.5 + Just no box..
I'm a VTL fan too, killer gear, BIG horsepower, I know, I'm nursing a pair right now.. Never a problem UNTIL. LOL Cable drop (25 years no problems at all)..Not the old Art Deco design of Mcintosh though..
I like the way the old Marantz 7T, 7C, 33, 3300 and the Pioneer Spec
Gear looks too. Beautiful craftsmanship.
Regards