Mcintosh MX170 2-Channel Sound

I have the D’Agostino classic 3 and it is powering the Amati’s and the Vox center channel.  Long term my plan is to get monoblocks for the Amati’s and have the classic 3 power the Vox and the rears.

I do not own the Mac yet, I have a Yamaha CX-A5100 and it needs to be upgraded.  So I was thinking about the MX170, but was also considering the Audio Research Ref6 preamp and keep the Yamaha for movies.  I am trying to get them both for a home demo so I can decide if the Audio Research really sounds that much better, if not then I will go with the Mac.  

My question was not very clear at all, sorry about that.  I was basically asking if I should get a stereo preamp to go with my Yamaha processor or skip the preamp and just get a much better processor (MX-170).  

Funny OP I have 2 MX110z, MX120 and a MX121. My preferred is the MX120, the only reason is the remote. The 110z will just whip the pants off in any of the 2 channel stuff. The 120 though.. a serious 2 channel stereo, it’s ALL Mac.. I’ve found a couple for under 1K.. C2500 and their C11-22 are pretty nice too.. Its just the remote thing.. BIG C20 fan here too.. Samra Touch..

2 speakers C2500
3 speakers MX120
more than 3 speakers MX121

I can take a 3.XX system, after 3 main speakers I get all mixed up.. AND I don’t watch HT UNLESS, the wife wants to hear a live recorded concert or something..

Besides I’m a tonnage guy when it comes to speakers.. BIGGER is better.. 3 speakers is 3/4 of a US ton 1500 lbs.  Add MB columns and subs, couple of tons pretty easy..

I'm trying to repurpose a pair of 12 CF 300 lb subs columns now into spring bass traps.. Maybe I'll just hang BASS sucking dingle berries inside..???

Regards

As a Mac and ARC owner ( MX119z and REF5se ) I think you will find the REF6 awesome ( yes I have heard many very modern Mac components ) but definitely listen to them both if at all possible....

the obscure “ Samra” reference is to I believe ( hello mech )
Mike Samra in Saginaw who modify gear , including my MC240 ) Mike is a quirky genius capable of wonders.

have fun, enjoy journey and the music

Jim

Thanks for the comments, and for explaining the Samra reference, I had no idea.

I currently have a 5.2, I have a sunfire amp powering Kef LS50’s for my rears at the moment.  I want to get a pair of full range, possibly SF Olympica III’s or something.