I’m lost. Help me find my way

I know you like McIntosh, but pairing a $3000 amp with $750 headphones seems a bit out of line to me, and I’d either up the spend on the ‘phones — maybe to Grado’s Statement or Signature line — or pare back on the amp.  If you like the headphones then both of these amps are very highly regarded and are half the price of the Mac.  

https://quicksilveraudio.com/products/headphone-amplifier/

https://wooaudio.com/amplifiers/wa6se

If you find the Grados uncomfortable or just want something to compare them to — headphones are very personal like speakers so good to try several if possible — I’d highly recommend buying these from Amazon as they are excellent and are very comfortable even over long listening sessions.  You can easily return them, and if you still prefer the Grados you know you really have something.  Just my $0.02 FWIW, and best of luck.

https://www.amazon.com/HIFIMAN-Arya-Organic-Full-Size-Audiophiles/dp/B0C5RFXMM5

I like blue meters.enjoy the music

@dynacohum 

Yes I have read that some feel the Grado’s are bright. I must audition!

@soix 

I was thinking the same thing about the cost disparity between the amp and phones. I’m a Mac guy all the way. But I guess if it sounds great, what does it matter. But yes I will compare the higher end Grado’s while I’m auditioning. And if I don’t like them, I will try the hifiman phones.  I have multiple recommendations here on AG for those. I’m starting with the Grado line because my Mac dealer carries them. As good a place as any to start. 

Thanks for the guidance. 

Listen and decide.  Mac and  Grado:  It’s all good stuff and only what you think matters in the end. When not sure always stick with products from proven vendors  that receive many good reviews. 
 

One recommendation is for streaming source go with a product like Roon that supports using canned convolution filters to adjust sound of specific headphone models.  That is a game changer that helps even out the playing field and opens up many new excellent headphone choices at all price points. 

Really the best way to decide is to listen. I have been developing my current headphone system seriously for two decades. It is incredible, far superior to other systems I have heard or put together. (see my virtual systems)  The amp, by the way is $6.5K and worth every penny... I have tried a dozen amps or more. The Mac headphone amp is highly regarded. I use Sennheiser headphones. Grado makes great headphones, if you like the Mac sound... sounds like you are heading down the right path.