Electrocompaniet AW300M or AW800M versus McIntosh 1.25KW?

yes I agree. I think the McIntosh sound is more laid back for sure.

If the sound is in your face, you will definitely tire of them quickly.   I would try out the smaller amp with your system to see over a couple of days, you really like it. 

Yes I plan on listening to them over the weekend. I didn’t mean they were forward and in my face. Just not as laid back as my current amps. Kinda like current amps are somewhat veiled compared to the electrocompaniet. Will give it another day on to see how they sound after running for a full 24 hours. 

Did the dealer explain to you that the AW800m can also be used as a stereo power amp, and that the AW300m's are effectively a mono block version of the the AW800 when in stereo power amp configuration.

I am currently trying some AW180m's and I'm so impressed by them that after speaking to the dealer and doing some research I have ordered some AW400m's.

Yes he did for sure.  One thing I like about the AW800M is the versatility. I like that they can be used in Mono and can be biwired to my speakers or biamped to them based on how you use the speaker terminals on the back. The more I listen to the AW300M’s the more I am enjoying them. Always dangerous home auditioning in your room with your equipment. We shall see what kind of price he comes back at me with after he takes them back…..  They are indeed very impressive as you stated.