2. misc-audio
  3. 1422544283

Help me get the best sound under $5K in upgrades

I need help. My system: mac mini, McIntosh Pre 15, McIntosh MC2255, Joseph Audio RM22si / REL Strata iii.

I just switched to the McIntosh from an Audio Refinement Complete, but am willing to change anything other than the front end or going tubes. I don't want the maintenance of tubes, and want to keep the convenience of digital.

I mostly listen to acoustic/folk/jazz/vocals.

I'm considering planars and demo-ing a set of Maggie 1.7's next week.

I just want the best sound possible, and don't want to throw money away on things that I can't hear.

Is the McIntosh mostly just cool lights and nostalgia? Can I get better sound for my $? Can I do better than Planars with my sub and a really nice pair of monitors?
lisaandjon

Showing 4 responses by lisaandjon

lisaandjon OP
17 posts
 
Tried Parasound Halo this weekend. I think this is a winner for me. I'm getting A21 & P5, replacing the Macs. For me, they have more detail without fatigue.
lisaandjon OP
17 posts
 
After listening to the Parasound for several hours I'd call it lifeless. Definitely lacks the detail of the Mc2255.

Pretty cool, actually. I've never heard a difference in amps before. Now I really want to find out what else is out there.
lisaandjon OP
17 posts
 
I brought home a Parasound 2250 v.2 to compare. Thoughts? It's half the price, 275Watts, stable at 2ohms. I don't have any Maggie's to try it out with, yet; just the Joseph's.

Honestly, I do hear a difference vs the McIntosh. Wasn't expecting it, but I'd say there's more detail with the Mc. Am I just imagining things?
lisaandjon OP
17 posts
 
Matt, "IMHO, It's not." What are you addressing? My question about the detail i.e. you don't think I'm imagining things?

Sounds like I'll need to try out the MC352 someday.

I'll see how it goes with the 1.7's. Who knows, maybe I'll go tubes and high sensitivity...will it ever end?
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