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McIntosh amp opinions?

Hello all, I currently have an old McIntosh MC2205.
The rest of my 2ch system is a Rega CD player, VTL 2.5 pre amp and Martin Logan Aeon speakers. My amp needs to go in for service as it now has unequal levels on each ch. I am asking opinions regarding this amp with my system as I have never had another amp with it. Is this amp (considering comparably priced and power) a good match? Or would I really improve things to upgrade either a different Mac or perhaps a VTL type tube amp? I listen to mostly HI-FI recording of rock and jazz at low volumes.

One interesting note, I recently upgraded cables from mid-line Transparent to Cardas Gold Reference and it was like I had a whole new system. Much better bass response, defiantly noticeable.

Thank you for you suggestions
vdosc
apachef1
164 posts
 
Have the tech go completly thruogh your mc225. Upgrade all the caps you'll be very happy with the results.
I have two mc225's that are restored. I run them in mono and that brings them to a new level.
vdosc OP
51 posts
 
Thanks, are the cap upgrades after market or do you just mean new ones? And do you know of any upgrades to the speaker binding post that would allow them to accept larger lug speaker cables?
lapierre
547 posts
 
Try upgrading the power cord to the MC 225 to give you another improvement before making component changes.
lewinskih01
909 posts
 
Are we talking MC2205 or MC225? The original post was for MC2205, 200W SS, and the answers are for MC225...tubes.

Sorry I cannot add content to the post as I don't have enough knowledge, but I still read it with interest.

Vdosc, BTW, the improvement you noticed when changing to Cardas Gold Ref was when changing power cords, interconnects or speaker cables?

Thanks!
usblues
1,217 posts
 
The 2205[1975-9]200Watts/side is a keeper.I have a 7270,2105,autoformers,same sonic signature.You would need to spend 10K to get better sound.Send it to Terry Dewick if you dont have a Mac/good tech in town.Its 65 lbs,watch your back,good luck,Bob
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