2. amps-preamps
  3. 191449-195982

Choose between McIntosh MA9000 used vs MA8950 new

I really need some input! I am trying to upgrade from my starter kit. I just found a used 4-5 years old MA9000, fine condition (except cosmetics), and is comparing to buying a new MA8950. Ma9000 has generous leg room (300 W) with more tone controls, bigger everything, but that was older 2017 technology and already discontinued. Ma8950 is less powerful (200W), but is the latest design, bit better DAC, more dynamic headroom (filter capacity). Now I cannot decide which one to go for. Btw I used streamer as my source most of the time, and driving a b&w 805 d4. Thanks for your help.

randywong

Showing 1 response by emergingsoul

emergingsoul
1,242 posts
 

An integrated is confining. Unless you have space issues I would branch out with a few separates. McIntosh is known for amplifiers. So much better things out there worthy of exploration

Although they do offer tone controls which is nice. Tone controls tend to restrict the signal path and you can really hear the difference when you disable feature in most processors.

 

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