Best upgrade: amp or pre-amp?


Of course, it depends...

So here is my setup:

  • Amp: McIntosh MC7100
  • Pre-amp: McIntosh C712
  • Others: Focal Sopra 1 and Bluesound Node

I was thinking to upgrade to an integrated (McIntosh, Hegel or Pass Labs are on top of my list), but I might decide to go for the long game: get the best amp/pre-amp for the same budget as the integrated (max 10k CAD) and update the other half later, in 5 years-ish..

So I'm open to suggestion! But remember a suggested a pre-amp, must match the MC7100 and an amp must match the C712 as I plan you have them together for a little while.

Thanks for the hive mind. I realize this is a tricky question!

papyneau

Showing 3 responses by webking185

@erik_squires +1 here. Luxman is a superior made product and will probably be and end game integrated Amp.

@papyneau , McIntosh MA8950 is a fine choice.  Figure you have this brand already and would like to try something else.  I think the Luxman is a better match for the Focal Sopra 1.  Maybe you can demo in stores?  If I had to choose, Luxman for sure, either the 509 or 590.  The 590 is on my list for sure.

@erik_squires , I heard Luxman and I knew it was for me.  The L590AX MKII sounds spectacular.  It will be a rare gem down the line if it is not already, especially if they decide to stop making Class A.