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Which integrated amp for rock/metal (and why McIntosh?)

Dear all,

I recently obtained new speakers (Fyne Audio F704) and I have the idea (my wife says it too) that my NAD M32 doesn’t seem powerful enough to push music through our living room. On the Totem Winds I had before, it was less of a problem, the F704’s are really massive. I mainly listen to rock / metal, my wife likes to add some EDM/EBM (dance) in between. I’m also running a REL Carbon Special so the low is covered well :)

Which integrated amp should I look for (probably opening Pandora’s Box here) to enjoy rock/metal? The few hints I found online, were Krell and McIntosh. I’m wondering if it’s because of the "rock ’n roll name" (Krell) or the rugged look (McIntosh). I could for example get a MA9000 (300w, Class AB integrated amp) - would that be a good choice? Is it worthwhile to move from a Class D amp to AB?

Looking forward to read your input.
koenvingerhoets
kenrus
29 posts
 
I also have McIntosh receiver. At 200 watts it is plenty to play rock music very well. 
And, I, too, got it down to Krell or McIntosh. To me, the McIntosh sounded more natural with a fuller sound. The Krell was a little too thin and analytical. 
jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
naim
hegel
parasound
devialet

new nad m33 well regarded too

no affiliation
koenvingerhoets's avatar
koenvingerhoets OP
28 posts
 
Thank you for your feedback already. While I set out to see if the MA9000 would be a good match, the last 6 hours I got very interested in the Hegel H590 (power & connectivity), the Gryphon Diablo 300 (mentioned as the best amplifier ever).
Thank you for the feedback @jjss49 and @verdantaudio for the references, thx @kenrus and @g_nakamoto for vouching for the MA9000.
archguy's avatar
archguy
46 posts
 
All of those are top-notch, and very powerful amplifiers. I think you’ll be happy with any of them.

When it comes to shipping glass-front McIntosh amps, specific requirements apply and they are ably described in the following PDF guide:
http://0343d7e.netsolhost.com/AAK/How%20to%20ship%20a%20McIntosh.pdf  
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I’m also available at any time for free consultations on this matter! Best Regards


stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,569 posts
 
If you buy a used McIntosh amp, make sure it has the original box and packing.  If not, run away from it as no amount of packing and bubble wrap will allow the glass front to arrive in one piece.
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