Legacy Focus 20/20 Speakers AMP/Pre Amp

Thank you Soix.  I suppose if I were to describe the sound characteristics that I'm looking for it would be more on the "warm" side with some detail in the highs but they don't need to be overly sharp.  Also looking for quality in the mid range.  I listen to all types of music, Rock, Jazz, Classical, Reggae, Metal, Electronic, Choir, etc. 

Not that these are comparable, but I have a set of lower end speakers in another room bi-amped to Marantz separates.  They are very clear however I've noticed that they lack in the mid range, and I tend to get fatigue after listening to them for an extended period because they seem so so sharp.  Might also be the room acoustics, or perhaps the way they are configured, so not totally sure.  

That said, I have heard other McIntosh amps/preamps at the stereo shops and I do like the way they sound, but they were also powering different speakers so might not be an apples to apples comparison.

Thank you for responding!

Dave  

Thanks for the helpful info.  Forgot to ask, what’s your budget?

Here is a Stereophile review.

With speakers that old you should verify the surrounds on the woofers are in good shape or have been replaced.

Yes, your budget would be good. 
 

Do you have a system of some sort in place now. 
 

i definitely recommend a tubed preamp. The best you can afford. 
 

Mac equipment has a very distinct sound. Make sure you compare to alternatives before jumping in. It is not every one’s cup of tea.

Hi, thanks guys,  if I go with the Focus 20//20’s from the guy locally I want to try to stay under $10k all in for speakers amp and pre amp.  The speakers are $2200, and there are MC501’d available for $5k, which would leave around $3k for a pre amp.  But I’m open to other ideas too.

the 20/20’s are in good shape and surrounds are intact.  Thank you for that suggestion.  

 If I get over $10k, there is a guy selling newer 2022, active Legacy Aeris speakers and he is including the Legacy wavelet/preamp for just under $12k all in.  So if I get in that $ range, I will try to talk him into shipping the Aeris to CA. Unfortunately, he’s only offering local pick up.  But those speakers would be a much better option. 

I do have another system currently, but it’s in a different room and set up mainly for surround sound with Marantz Separates approximately 12-15 years old.  It’s fine, but would not be a good option for the other room that I’m trying to build out. 
 

thanks again,

dave

Given what you’re looking for in sound with good power and something smaller I immediately thought hybrid integrated.  This Unison Research Unico 150 offers lots of power with a tubed preamp section so you’re done in one box and would seem to offer the sound characteristics you’re looking for.  Sound Approach offers free shipping and a 30-day return policy in case it doesn’t work out for some reason.
https://soundapproach.com/unison-research-unico-150-class-a-hybrid-integrated-amplifier.html

Here’s a review that gives you an idea of its sound characteristics…

https://www.stereotimes.com/post/unison-research-unico-150-integrated-by-david-abramson/

Just an idea given what you’ve been saying, and best of luck in your search.