Does McIntosh make reference gear? Sound is in the ear of the beholder. McIntosh does not make the most expensive gear, although not cheap my any means. Some equate the most expensive gear as reference level.
Being a owner of the McIntosh MA6600, I can only state that it is the best sound out of all my former and current systems. Tube or solid state. And in league with some gear I had chance to audition at fine audio salons. Gear that many may indeed rank as reference gear.
IMO they do stand out for the pack. Great sound, much appreciated features, impeccable build that lasts for years, going into decades. Not cookie cutter looks, their gear has in own distinctive look. Excellent customer service and high pride of ownership.