Moscode 402au vs Butler TDB2250 vs McIntosh MC275

I used to have an MC275 MK V with NOS signal tubes paired with the Calypso preamp with NOS tubes. It was the best combination of separates I have ever owned. If you are like me, you will miss them when they are gone. If you can swing it, you really should consider getting a second MC275 as I think they are very special amps and offer great bang for the buck. I only switched because I wanted to go with a one box integrated amp, and I did not care for the awkward appearance / ergonomics of the MC275. I'm currently in the process of moving back to tube separates because I want more power to drive my big Harbeth's.

If you must go with solid state, suggest you consider staying with McIntosh (maybe MC352 or 402) so you can keep the Mac midrange & fullness.

Pdreher, thanks for your comments. Can I ask what integrated you are using now?

In any case, you may well be right, as the Mac does sound great in most respects. If I ever move into a bigger space, I could then buy a second MC275.

In the short run, one option is to buy a good used solid state amp that is fairly inexpensive and hear if the Mac can really be improved upon with a more powerful amp. I also could take Moscode up on the offer of a 33 day free trial and see if it is really better...

Mcondon

So.... what did you decide?

Mcondon - The first integrated I tried after separates was a Musical Fidelity Nuvista M3... a big disappointment. I knew instantly that it was all bling, with little substance... I listed it within 3 days of getting it. Even ended up paying the next owner to get it's caps replaced, even though the guy I had bought it from had just had similar repairs done 6 months prior.

Next, I went back to McIntosh and used the MA2275 tube integrated for about 3 months. The MA2275 is a very nice integrated. I really liked it... excellent build quality and very good sound. It just did not provide enough drive for my big Harbeth's and did not have the transparency or soundstage that I had grown accustomed to with my previous favorite separates setup (MC275 MKV & Aesthetix Calypso). I doubt I will ever down-grade again unless it's out of financial necessity.

A friend had a Moscode 401 and upgraded to a 275 and was very happy. Like you he thought the 275 had a weaker bass. He also bought a second 275 so he could run them mono.

Bob