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Electrocompaniet AW300M or AW800M versus McIntosh 1.25KW?

I currently own a pair of MC1.25KW monoblocks and have enjoyed them. However recently had the opportunity to audition a pair of Electrocompaniet’s newest AW300M monoblocks in my system. I found them to be quite different in sound from the big Mc’s. They are definitely more forward sounding and seem to be more detailed and cleaner sounding. Definitely not the McIntosh house sound.The dealer doesn’t have a Pair of the big brother AW800M’s to audition. Any knowledge or experience with these MonoBlocks. Never heard of them until recently. Anyone else had a chance comparing them to McIntosh?

usherzaleg
usherzaleg OP
11 posts
 

Yes thanks. Very different. Sound is more in your face. It seems more detailed and more three dimensional than my Mc’s. Detailed and the bass is faster and more evident. The MC1.25’s seem more laid back with a shallower sound stage. Very weird. 

jond's avatar
jond
5,807 posts
 

One thing to keep in mind if the sound is more in your face will you find it fatiguing? I've never heard Electrocompaniet described as fatiguing but also not as forward but perhaps that's just in comparison to Mac which is a laid back sound.

usherzaleg OP
11 posts
 

yes I agree. I think the McIntosh sound is more laid back for sure.

stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,388 posts
 

If the sound is in your face, you will definitely tire of them quickly.   I would try out the smaller amp with your system to see over a couple of days, you really like it. 

usherzaleg OP
11 posts
 

Yes I plan on listening to them over the weekend. I didn’t mean they were forward and in my face. Just not as laid back as my current amps. Kinda like current amps are somewhat veiled compared to the electrocompaniet. Will give it another day on to see how they sound after running for a full 24 hours. 

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