Stereo or monoblocks

I have always had stereo amps. I recently purchased a pair of McIntosh MC 611s. I will never go back to a stereo amp. The channel separation is incredible, along with the musical presentation. 

The MC402 will drive the Sh## out of those speakers. The 2300 and 402 would make a nice combo, though!

Schitt makes some very good equipment, at very good prices.

But, if I could afford the Mac, I would do it in a heartbeat.

B

The difference between stereo versions and mono blocks of the same amps are subtile but important. But the operative word is subtle.

I own a Audio Research Reference 160s stereo amplifier. I also have had a set of Audio Research 160m mono blocks for well over a year. I switch back an forth occasionally. The mono bocks I have used for listening 95% of the time over the last year and a half. The two amps are exactly the same design... one spread out over two chassis and one adapted to inhabit the same chassis.

There is a difference, but it is small. It is by far smaller than the overall character of the amp, compared to any other amp. You want to chose the amp you want... by the character and sound... then decide if you can afford the mono blocks. As the amps get more expensive the more important mono’s become.

If I loved the sound of McIntosh amps... I would not even consider another brand because it offered mono block. Now, if I loved the sound of McIntosh, then I would consider if I could afford their monoblocks.

@thbullard3 Why do you have a McIntosh preamp and not a Schiit preamp? Just curious…

Monoblocs are the icing on the cake when it comes to stereo imaging, micro-detailing, increased soundstage, and lowered noise floor. Once you mono, can't go back.