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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 1 response by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,638 posts
 
You might want to try a 80w or more tube amp with the Maggies. Use the powered subs to offload work from the amp and a lot fewer watts are needed. For SS, the Mc seems like a decent match.

Also I am wondering how the Maggies are set up? Placement is everything with those. Some rooms could be a challenge.

The Maggies seem like a good match for your listening tastes as you describe otherwise. The trick is to get them to sing like they are capable of. The whole setup has to mesh.
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