2. amps-preamps
  3. 162135-141153

McIntosh vs Accuphase?

Right now I'm using a Marantz PM-11S1 w/ Monitor Audio Gold floor standers. I'm a big fan of Marantz reference gear and their smooth yet detailed warmth. That said, I'm looking to get an integrated for my bedroom setup with a built-in DAC (no room for separates), which nixes something like the PM-KI Ruby. Looks to me like the McIntosh MA5300 / 7200 or Accuphase E-280 / E-380 fit the bill. I'm not really interested in Hegel or Rotel based on their aesthetics. I kind of like the idea of VU meters as well. So the question is, between the two McIntosh integrated or the Accuphase, what's my play? I'm located in the US so that's two points for Mc (pricing and service). But the Accuphase stuff looks to have much higher quality components, design, and build quality. Though for the price of the E-280 w/ option boards I could get a MA7200 and have spare change. Hmm...
lostark
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
@nitewulf

accuphase sells at a premium to luxman in japan... i am well aware as i used to work there

get your facts straight - man


nitewulf
422 posts
 
That's fine, I don't want to get into price = quality arguments, you can read about respective gear build quality at both manufacturer websites, though I find Luxman's to be a lot more comprehensive. Point being they are marked up a lot more here in the US which if you feel privileged about paying that premium, that's ok by me. This is late stage capitalism so no surprises there.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
McIntosh vs Accuphase?

Accuphase every time, except when the early Mac 275 are bought into the discussion, the only time they got it right..

Cheers George  

nitewulf
422 posts
 
Also, I will say people tend to hate on Macs too much. They produce beautiful gear that can outlast you and provide a lot of clean power while doing it. I used the MC252 power amplifier for 10 years and it'll always remain one of my favorites. 
lostark OP
12 posts
 
Thanks to all for the helpful input. Did a bunch of auditioning over the past couple weeks. To my ear McIntosh takes the prize, regardless of price. It's just icing on the cake that it's a much better value proposition here in the US. I was also wrong about build quality. The knobs on Luxman do feel sturdier, but it's because they are traditional wiper-pots — the Mc knobs use an electronically switched resistor ladder, which is more accurate and durable, even if it doesn't feel as luxurious. MA8900 is on order. 
More to discover