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Classe vs mcintosh

Looking for comments on the Classe 200 watt 2 channel amp (CA2200) as opposed to the mcintosh 252 or 402. I have heard that classe is cleaner, more accurrate etc. However, looking at the specs its hard to see how anything could be cleaner or more accurrate than the 0.005% THD of the mac amps. I know the CA2200 is spec'd at .003% THD at 8 ohms and .005% TDH at 4 ohms but that .002% difference at 8 ohms is so small as to be without a distinction. Listening to the Classe it just seemed boring and lacking compared to the mac amps ( with no tubes in the system ). Both amps driving B&W speakers.
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Showing 1 response by audphile1

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audphile1
5,528 posts
 
I use Pass Labs X250.5 with my N803 and love it. Totally awesome! I have heard MC402 with 803S and 252. Pretty good, but I like the Pass better. Before I bought the Pass I have considered MC402. Pass is more involving with the B&Ws and it seems to drive them effortlessly. Power reserves seem unlimited. It also is super good on low level resolution with the B&Ws due to Class A bias up to 37 watts.

I like Classe with the B&Ws as well. But I would think twice about Classe or McIntosh if you felt that Classe amp was boring.
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