mc252 v. mc501s in a 13 x14 room?

The 501 is double balanced in the output circuit, where as the 252 is not. McIntosh referes to this circuit as dual differntial in earlier models like the 352. But later models like the 402, 501, 602 are calling it double balanced. I would recommend a 352 or a 402 for that size of room if you are seeking sonic improvement. However I will tell you that I recently traded a 352 in on a 402 and it sounds better. It is not the 50 watts. They did something else, not sure what it is. Also the connections are better on the 402 plus no bulbs.

I agree with that comment Theo. Good observation.

I know what you mean...maybe it's better power supplys and transformers and the balance circuits.

I also had a 402 and tried a 252. The 402 sounds better, and so presumably the 501's are also better. It is not just power, it is the quad balanced design.

Thank you all. I am looking at the 402, the 2101...even getting a 2nd 252 and setting them each up in mono.....

Dbarger, the 352 had the dual balanced as well the 402 does. I think that the 402 must have a better power supply.
But when I traded Chuck at McIntosh told me I would only gain the LED Lighting and the 50 watts. But at RMAF I spoke with Ron Cornileus and we got interupted as he was telling me. But all I got at that moment was "enhanced mcintosh magic". But I beleive that the power supply and possibly maybe even the LED lighting may not be creating a noise that was inhereant to the incandessant bulbs. At the same time I traded my MC7205 in on a MC205 and it really sound better. But the 7205 never was that impressive for music it just seemed to have the right thing for HT at the time. I am glad to McIntosh continues to work on improving their designs. I know there are better amps for the money but, I don't think anyone builds as bulletproof an amp!