Audio Research versus McIntosh tube amps: anyone experience or compare both?


As stated in the title of this thread, considering both brands.  I'm looking for a new or near new tube amp to run my Joseph Audio Pulsar's.  Have been using a Pass XA25, which sounds a little lean with this speaker.  Looking for a touch of tube warmth and bloom, but still good detail.

Considering a new McIntosh 275 MkVI or possibly a preowned ARC Reference 75SE.  New ARC costs more than I want to spend ($6K range or less).  Preamp is ARC Ref 2 MKII BTW.

Would appreciate any insight for those who have experienced both.  Thanks!

bobbydd

Showing 1 response by djcxxx

The 75SE is one of the sweetest ARC amps. Detailed, superb soundstage, excellent instrument timbre, and easy to check and adjust bias. Agree it will pair perfectly with your Ref2MkII.  I did not have much success pairing Mac amp with ARC preamp despite "adequate" impedence matching.