I think Luxman would be ideal. :)
Ayre too.
Ayre too.
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- 12 posts total
More important than the sub itself is the integration of the sub. A highpass crossover is key imo. McIntosh integrated pieces should all have a built in sub highpass but read up on it. This sends the everything above the crossover to the mains and everything below to the subs. It is very hard to just pass the subs under the mains with a low pass. The results are never as good though I am sure someone who has never used a highpass with chime in that a low pass is fine…. There are external options (JL Audio C-1, $3000) but they are expensive. I have only tried JL Audio subs with B&W and they sounded great (seamless blend) but the electronics inside them broke multiple times. I still have the subs that were repaired. Don’t get me wrong SVS is fine and the upper ends subs are good just that in $1000 subs there are a number of compromises. |
I would look at the AVM A 6.2ME as the integrated amp. Read Herb Reichert's review from earlier this year in Stereophile. This amp is very modestly priced ($8500) intentionally by manufacturer, distributor and retailer to serve as an entry point into AVMs more premium gear. This is an incredible integrated. https://www.stereophile.com/content/avm-ovation-62-me-integrated-amplifier At that price point, $1000 for subs is a bit tight. Take the savings from the integrated and roll it into two JL E series subs and you will be happy. |
The current line of McIntosh is more neutral and the older models. Not that they are better than other things. Just a decent option. I think Mac helps take the edge off the upper mids and highs of the B&W. Just a hair soft where the B&W are hard sounding imo all in all a good balance. Subs crossed over to say 60hz will take some of the stress off your amps. I think people feel like they need a lot of power with 803ds because they lack bass and try to “fix” it with amps. Running subs will be a huge improvement. Good video McIntosh vs D’Agostino, the outcome might surprise you. https://youtu.be/td54mT0bGo4 |
- 12 posts total