Audio Research versus McIntosh tube amps: anyone experience or compare both?

I've moved on from ARC gear. Ime it sounds superficially impressive, plenty bass, dynamics, big soundstage but lacks musicality when compared to the best. I'd be happy to have it in an AV system. Macintosh are midfi at best and don't belong in a reference system.

An earlier poster suggested mixing a valve pre amp with solid state power amp. For me this is audio nirvana, i would suggest a VAC pre with a Boulder power amp.

This would give the warmth you enjoy and the bass you crave, with added musicality. A mailed fist inside a velvet glove.

@bobbydd 

There is an ARC REF 80S that just came up here for $9000

@bobbydd 

I like searching for deals ; )

Echo Hi-Fi is a great group to deal with and have a BAT VK-75SE.

I have no experience with this brand but this seems like a nice option for consideration.  

Thanks guys!

Seems I should be looking for a nice Ref 75SE.  Prefer it in black……

Though I’m a little surprised nobody mentioned VAC.  Have given a little thought to a used 200iq.

I have been listening to JA Perspective2s with Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL pre and Pass X250.8 for few months now. I ❤️ what I'm hearing. When I demoed the speakers at my dealer, hear them with full Mac system, tube pre but SS monos but sounded bit veiled to my taste.