Mcintosh MAC7200 or Hegel H390 for a new pair of Kef R7 META


I'm about to pull the trigger on a new pair of Kef R7 Metas. Which amp would be a better match? I love the look of the 7200, but does it have enough power for these speakers? 

mrbanker32

If it were me I’d spend the extra $1000 and get the 8950 instead of the 7200. I believe the 7200 comes with the DA1 module and the 8950 comes with the DA2. 8950 also has tone controls and no receiver. Either will drive the Kefs no problem.

totally agree. The optional upgatable da2 will cost more then 1k, and 8950 holding some other advantage. In short, go for 8950😁

As a Hegel H390 owner driving some Vandersteen Treo CTs, I can only say the sound is much more neutral than any Mcintosh I've heard (which IMO usually much warmer). The Hegel h390 is 250 wpc and also has a damping factor of 4,000 (that's not a misprint) vs. the McIntosh damping factor of "greater than 40." If you have a chance to do an A/B comparison at some place, I'd certainly do it. While I agree McIntosh may hold it's resale value more today, the Hegel hasn't had that many years to establish it's reputation in the USA. Bottom line, though, is whatever sounds the best to you.

@aphilc I've heard the H390 and it sounds great, but the Mcintosh has a signature sound thats hard to beat. 

They are both overkill for any of the R series speakers! I have an H390 and it sounds great on my KEF Reference 5’s, The Hegel is $6k and the Mac is $8k.  Why did you pick these to power $2.5k speakers? 
The “rule of thumb” that I grew up with is the speakers should cost twice what your amp does. Obviously, nothing is cut in stone, but.

Oh and if you like the Hegel sound, you can get a used H190 for about $3k.

 let us all know whatever you decide.
 

I totally disagree with McIntosh option unless you are so used to McIntosh sound. Hegel 360 is one of the best amp for the price. Absolutely fantastic, neutral, coherent, does not color, excellent separation, and immense base control. McIntosh can’t give you any of these. It will give you a nicer retro look and two blue meters. As an H590 owner. I strongly recommend Hegel.