Whenever I get amp-upgrade fever there are a few brands/models that always make the top 3 or 4 on my list. But for one reason or another, they are never the finalist. It is definitely not a case of whether I think they are inferior in any way compared to my eventual choice. I know I probably would have been equally happy with either one, but honestly I don't know why I never end up buying them. So here's my list of the also-rans (but not inferior) that I would love to own some day. By the way, I'm only including amps that are within my budget ($4-8K new or used) and in close range to what I usually end up buying ...
Pass Labs INT-60 -- this was a top contender, but I just couldn't find a way to audition. Then a used Luxman 590AXII popped up and I went that way. However, I still wonder if I should have gone with the legendary Nelson Pass' design.
Hegel H390 -- this is another amp that seems to get a lot of love on the forums. Would love to own one some day. I didn't pull the trigger because I had concerns about Roon integration (a must for me).
Ayre AX-5 Twenty -- another one that gets a lot of respect. New is out reach, but I've seen used ones pop up for sale every now and then.
McIntosh -- I'm not listing a specific model. This is probably one of the most iconic brands with unmatched pedigree and history. There have been times when I was tempted to buy one of their integrated amps, but always got cold feet. I know Mac doesn't get a lot of love on these forums, and that's probably a major factor that it never makes it past the finish line. But I feel that it's an itch I have to scratch some day to see what the fuss is all about.
So what are the top 3 or 4 amplifier models that you would love to own some day, are within reach budget-wise, but just never seem to end up in your music room?
I would put Audio Note on this list for sure. I auditioned the Cobra integrated at home- the grip and tightness blew me away. One day will get to it. Mac keep on thinking about it- but find it a bit bulky for my space. Another one I have and love is the Gato Audio Amp 150.
I've had the Krell kav 300il, $3500, parasound a21, $2000, Hegel H360, $5400, h590, $11,000 and now Mac Mc611's, $16,000. I only replaced the 300il because it kept melting and the warranty ran out. The A21 looks the part and popping the top is as impressive, but it's the most colored amp I've ever heard, it sounds like it was deliberately voiced to add body to compensate for early digital releases. I like Hegel for the money, but sometimes preferred the 360 to the iron grip the h590 holds on the music. I always thought Mac was must an overpriced brand that charged $$$ for a pretty face and bragging rights. I needed more power and the Mc611's were the first amps I'd had that delivered all the dynamics and texture to music at low volume as well as mid to loud. The MC 611's are the least mechanical amp I've ever heard. Every time I step up my game I say the same thing, 'the boundaries of the listening room are gone and music is floating in space', same line every time.
I've never gotten this level of bass detail and depth before and to do it at low volumes is really new for me. The power meters rarely bounce above 6 watts and most listening is around the .6 mark on the meters. I've only used the 611's with the kef blades so I don't want to give the amps too much credit for the soundstage width and depth, or the precise imaging. Usually as I start watching my accounts catch up I start shopping for my next upgrade. Since adding the Mac components to my Blades I can't seem to find anything else hifi out there that interests me, I've probably said that before also, but time has gone by and I have money to burn yet I'd rather listen to what I have than look for the next best thing.
I, too, would love to try out the amps you mentioned, adding Luxman to top of the list.
But for the price of the H390, you can't touch anything on your list. I got the H390 last year for $5K, new. I can't imagine getting more for the money.
Just mention the word "McIntosh" and the naysayers hit the floor running! No other brand on this forum seems to be hated as much. +1 with Stereo5. There are other forums that do love "Mac", so that's where I spend my time; the naysayers, stay here and rave on!
@yyzsantabarbara Thanks for reminding me about the Coda. Yes, it should absolutely be on the list given its excellent price-to-performance ratio. From what I hear, there is a noticeable difference in SQ between the older and the new models of CSiB. I might try one next year.
BTW, I have been enjoying the Qualiton a50i for about a month or so. I can easily say that, to date, this is by far the best amp I've heard or owned. I will write a detailed review on it soon. I absolutely loved the Luxman 590AXII, but the Qualiton is just at another level of refinement and finesse ... for my taste at least.
Hegel, Gryphon and Pass I suppose. On the more modern front I wonder if I shouldn't have given more consideration to Anthem STR and NAD M33 since the room correction options are intriguing. I also wouldn't mind an MA12000.
For my upstairs system (something tube-y, in planning now) I probably should look at Raven more closely. Was thinking Luxman SQ N 150 but now leaning MA 252 if for no other reason than quick resale if I were to change gears.
@arafiq Given what you have told me about your sonic preferences. I think you should have a listen to the CODA #8 or CSiB integrated. The #8 is an amazing amp that sounds warm, detailed, and huge. I had put off getting it for a few years and finally pulled the trigger when I finally admitted to an error I made in another amp-speaker pairing. Terry London’s review on it was spot on the money. I think it goes for 1/2 price used ($3K to 4K).
When I owned the 2019 version of the CODA CSiB integrated it did not have the most recent amp section and it did not sound as good as my new CODA #8. I see people posting the new 2021 version of the CSiB is very similar to the #8. Something to consider, but no ROON integration and no internal DAC.
I am waiting to see what the fuss will be with the new GaN based amps that are scheduled to come out soon. I may replace my D-Sonic M3a 800s Class D amp which is being used for headphones. Though I really have no complaints, but just for curiosity sake.
The brands that I came close to pulling the trigger on but decided on something else were Luxman, Mola Mola, and SimAudio.
BTW - The very best ROON READY integration I have is with my KRELL K-300i, this is because it supports volume adjustment.
Another amp manufacturer that is very good (but flies under the radar) is Magnus Audio. High quality, beautiful performance, & built in California. I have their MA400 model running B&W 802 D's, which are not easy speakers to drive. The combination is wonderful.
I've heard good things about Sugden. Very reasonably priced considering it's made in the UK. Surprised no one mentioned Naim yet. I have also considered the Supernait 3.
@stereo5 -- I'm very tempted to replace my Raven Audio Blackhawk with a McIntosh. It's one of the brands that I feel I have to try. Is there a specific integrated model that you recommend? Preferably around 6-7K?
I am also looking for an integrated amp on a slightly higher budget than you ($6K to 10K). I am considering the ASR Emitter II, Gryphon Diablo (the original 250 one, the newer 300 is beyond my budget), Audia Flight FLS10 and possibly the Audionet Watt or the T+A PA3000HV. All used of course.
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.
