McIntosh MC 252 vs. Bryston


Trying to get some advice out there. I just recently purchased a pair of Sonus Faber Cremona's and absolutely love them. I currently have a Bryston 9B ST 5 channel amp driving the Cremonas. This amp is a great amp and has served me well for the past 15 years and the Cremonas do sound great with it, however, as always I wonder if it could sound better. I am wondering if the Mc would do even a better job at driving these speakers than the bryston since its twice the wattage. Thought maybe someone out there might have some thoughts on this issue. Thanks in advance for your responses. Doug
The reason for this particular Mc is there is one for sale but not in may area so I can't preview it.
dougwhitesell
I'm not an expert on Bryston amps but I am told that the designs are somewhat modular and therefore similar in sound. I am also told that there are very significant improvements with the newer SST and SST2 versions, especially the latest version of the SST2's which have impoved transformers and capacitors. I've never heard the 9B so I can't comment on how it compares to the McIntosh 402. Hopefully someone more knowledgeable can help.
The newer brystons are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. But still, they're better, imo. Get either the 7BSST2 or the 28BSST2. Don't play around with the other ones, go all the way!
Another thing, buy from a pro audio dealer when buying Bryston. The price difference is not subtle! 30 percent off or more!