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Which amplifier

I have to make a decision about whether to buy an Accuphase e470 or a McIntosh MA8000. I don’t have an opportunity to listen to them. Which amp would be the best match for Klipsh Cornwall speakers?

mfdamon
paradisecom
409 posts
 

The McIntosh.  The Accuphase is nice, of course.  But dang....that MA8000 is a gorgeous beast.

boltapuresource
29 posts
 

The gentleman asks for a choice between the two amps that he wants/prefers and the first response from a Gon member is to buy something else, that he likes better……SMH.

hbarrel's avatar
hbarrel
511 posts
 

Both amplifiers are roughly eight years old.
Do you know the provenance of both? 
Any repair history?
 

During its production run, the MA8000 received several accolades, including being named “Best Amplifier” by Hi-Fi World in 2014  and “High End Stereo Amplifier of the Year” by Lyd & Bilde in 2015 .

I am mesmerized at the detailed information Chatgtp can produce. 
 

 

  • If you prefer a clean, transparent, and refined sound with surgical detail: Accuphase E-470.
  • If you want bold dynamics, richness, and an engaging “live” feel with more slam: McIntosh MA8000.

  •  

    1. Synergy with Horns

     

     

  • Accuphase E-470:
    Excellent match. The smooth, refined, and low-noise nature of the E-470 tames any potential shoutiness or brightness from the horns. It brings out nuance and texture without adding edge. It also has a dead-quiet noise floor, which is important with such sensitive speakers.
  • McIntosh MA8000:
    Also a good match, but it will give you more of that classic, big, room-filling sound. However, the McIntosh warmth + Cornwall boldness might be too rich or thick-sounding for some. It could emphasize the midbass and low end more than you want, depending on room acoustics.

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inna
7,923 posts
 

Consider Gryphon Diablo as well. A hell of an amp with great dynamics and bass.

ghdprentice
8,100 posts
 

@hbarrel 

Good idea. Here is the contrast from an Google. I find it usually does a really good job. I think some of the wording is better.

 

 

 

The Accuphase e470 and McIntosh MA8000 offer distinct sonic signatures.The Accuphase e470 is known for its balanced and refined sound, with a focus on clarity and naturalness. The McIntosh MA8000, on the other hand, presents a powerful and dynamic sound, often described as having a more "romantic" mid-range and expansive soundstage. 

Accuphase e470: 

  • Focus: Clarity, naturalness, and balanced sound.
  • Sound Characteristics:
    • Accuphase’s AAVA volume control and high-power transistors contribute to a detailed and refined sound signature.
    • The e470 is known for its ability to reproduce subtle nuances in the music.
    • It offers a balanced sound across the frequency spectrum, with a focus on accuracy and naturalness.
  • Overall Impression: The Accuphase e470 is a refined and detailed amplifier, perfect for audiophiles who appreciate a clean and accurate sound reproduction. 

McIntosh MA8000: 

  • Focus: Powerful, dynamic, and expansive sound.
  • Sound Characteristics:
    • The MA8000 is known for its "romantic" mid-range, which is often described as having a softer and sweeter quality.
    • It delivers a powerful and dynamic sound, particularly in the bass frequencies.
    • The MA8000’s large soundstage allows for a sense of depth and dimensionality in the music.
  • Overall Impression: The McIntosh MA8000 is a powerful and dynamic amplifier, ideal for those who enjoy a wide and immersive soundstage. 

Key Differences: 

  • Emphasis on Sound:

    The Accuphase e470 emphasizes accuracy and clarity, while the McIntosh MA8000 leans towards power and dynamic sound reproduction.

  • Soundstage:

    The McIntosh MA8000 is known for its wide and expansive soundstage, while the Accuphase e470 offers a more balanced and focused soundstage.

  • Overall Style:

    The Accuphase e470 delivers a refined and detailed sound, while the McIntosh MA8000 presents a powerful and dynamic sound. 

 

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