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Speaker suggestions to go with MAC gear please

Hi all. I've recently acquired a McIntosh C2200 tube pre and MC2102 tube amp and am looking for suggestions for speakers that mate well with these two. I currently have VA Beethovens which I do like alot but am looking for something different to try. My budget is up to $5K new or used. I mainly listen to vocals, older rock, acoustical music. Actually vocals are the most important aspect. I'd like to hear the singer in the room with me.

The other gear which I will use is Cary 303 (which will be next to go as the upgrade money allows); Music Hall mm-7 for vinyl and Cardas GF cables.
Thanks! Mike.
michaela
ljgj
955 posts
 
I have the same combo as you and use the Legacy Focus 20/20 speakers with it. High efficiency, great looks and improved drivers over the previous Focus. I also have Gershman Acoustic Avant gardes RX 20's that are in the chain now . These speakers are phenomenal sounding with this setup. A friend also has this combo and uses the B&W 802 which sounds great also.
michaela OP
314 posts
 
Hi all and thanks for the great suggestions. There is a Tannoy and B&W dealer fairly close to me so I truck up there and see if I can audition a few models. The only problem is that they don't carry MAC gear so it won't really be the same. I live about 1 1/2 hours from NYC so I'll have to plan a trip there too to listen to Revels and Sonus.

Has anyone tried any tube rolling in their gear? I'd be very interested in the results.

Thanks again everyone. Mike.
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
i also own the 2102. I love it. I suspect you will lean more to the Tannoys over the B&W. Also, see if there is a local KEF dealer. At this stage, I am leaning marginally toward the new Kefs even over the
Tannoy. I won't be making my decision until I remodel as I first weant my room accoustics in place.
aball
2,018 posts
 
I auditioned the C100 and MC352 on Tannoy D700s and was very very impressed. Everyone in the dealer came around to hear the event. It was the most popular setup there although definately not the most expensive.

I however don't really like B&W with McIntosh. I favor the richer sound the Tannoys offer, not to mention their excellent efficiency for tubes. You have great taste - the C2200+MC2102 combo is a heck of a pair. Good luck
Arthur
hassel
248 posts
 
Michaela,
your Vienna Acoustics speakers are, in fact, a very good match with the McIntosh-combo - I listened to it when buying the McIntosh combo I have. Go and listen to the speakers you were advised to listen to - but be sure you do not buy sth only for the thrill of buying sth different. In order to get a noticably better sound than with the Vienna Acoustics speakers, you'll have to spend more than the 5000 $ you want to spend, I'm afraid
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