ARC and Mac amplifiers have completely different sounds. You need to hear them for yourself.
Audio Research versus McIntosh tube amps: anyone experience or compare both?
As stated in the title of this thread, considering both brands. I'm looking for a new or near new tube amp to run my Joseph Audio Pulsar's. Have been using a Pass XA25, which sounds a little lean with this speaker. Looking for a touch of tube warmth and bloom, but still good detail.
Considering a new McIntosh 275 MkVI or possibly a preowned ARC Reference 75SE. New ARC costs more than I want to spend ($6K range or less). Preamp is ARC Ref 2 MKII BTW.
Would appreciate any insight for those who have experienced both. Thanks!
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I agree with @cleeds In particular, how they handle the upper midrange and treble is very different, and also different for vintage AR vs. current. I'd suggest Ayre and Luxman to be on your short list, as well as Parasound. |
@ghdprentice hit the nail on the head. Currently I'm using a REF75SE and absolutely love it. ARC just gets everything right top to bottom. Preamp is Ref6. |
- 40 posts total