2. amps-preamps
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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!

bobbydd
audiophil88's avatar
audiophil88
18 posts
 

Here it comes from left field.. Ready? 

Pathos Kratos Hybrid Integrated- Class A PreAmp / Class AB Amp 

emergingsoul
1,090 posts
 

I'd be concerned about maintenance on an audio research product longer-term. Would recommend buying from a dealer if used.  McIntosh is reliable and built like a tank and sounds really good and is not midfi.  Would encourage you to get better tubes than what it comes with.  

 

bobbydd OP
96 posts
 

Just noticed a set of Jadis JA30 II mono's for sale here.  Anyone familiar with these units?

degx1000
11 posts
 

Agree with emergingsoul. The D 52 transistor amp malfunctioned and blew up a pair of Proac speakers.

The VT 100 has the power tubes mounted horizontally, against manufacturers advice. One blew up and took out traces on the circuit board. Then power supply transistores went bad and had to be replaced. It was almost impossible to bias the tubes because the 6922 drivers had to be biased as a group which was very irritating. The physical design was poor because the four drivers were below the power tubes and baked them like an oven. The amp ran very hot.

My D 70 has tubes mounted vertically as they should be and have not been a problem. I love the amp, but it still is a pain to bias.

This might be important to you.

 

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