Look into a McIntosh MA252 integrated. Solid state amp with built in tube preamp. If you like the Mac house sound, why not stay with the brand?
Downsize from C2200/MC275 to integrated SS
As I am getting older, I am thinking of reducing the number of audio components in my living room. Tape recorder has gone down to the basement time capsule, my flagship Technics cassette player will soon follow.
Cable clutter is getting difficult to handle due to space restrictions, and frequent lumbago’s.
Looking to replace my McIntosh C2200 preamp, MC275 power amp and an excellent European phono stage with an integrated amp.
I am extremely satisfied with my current setup, I am just tired of scrambling behind furniture to connect cables every time cleaning is required.
The loudspeakers are Coincident Technology 93db sensitivity.
Should I expect equivalent sound quality if I jump to something like an Esoteric or Accuphase?
Or European jobs like NAGRA or Burmester?
And would a Class A unit match my tube sound better than AB?
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@dekay you are joking, but back in the early 80s this is exactly what we had on what we called stereo furniture in Greece! When I discovered how they interfered with SQ I was baffled! |
A very close friend has an SS one, and also an Accuphase right next to it. The Japanese perceived quality is stellar compared to the Mcintosh. I am looking at the Mcintosh integrated models, but my experience with the local Mcintosh distributor has been pathetic and I don’t want to throw any more money their way. |
OP just my 02 cents for an integrated (SS) 1) if you got the budget, listen to Gryphon diablo 333 integrated 2) my second choice is the Pass Lab int-60 of if you need more, int-250 paired with the right speaker, they sound very good. I think they run high bias class A and at higher powers switches into class ab I heard the gryphon in a recent audio show a few months back and talk about control. although it was mated with Gryphon speakers, that synergy was so good, that I completely believe it was best of show |
- 37 posts total