I highly recommend the McIntosh amps, pre-amps and processors. I have been a mac owner for over 15 years and have upgraded when new designe are introduced. The MC 202 and MC 602 amps with autoformers are "tube like" without the heat and stable into almost any speaker. The 132 processor is being replaced by a newer 134 that has some excellent pre-intro press. The 6900 integrated did get excellent comments in Stereophile. Importantly, their service is EXCELLENT. They are always ready to help with problems and repairs, if ever required, are performed in a timely manner. If summary, I echo the comments of some of prior comments - AMPS, preamps and processors are still excellent and the support is outstanding. Finally, the best packaging for shipment in the industry.
Is McIntosh still a good choice?
When I was a teenager I was really into stereo equipment. I eventually bought a complete system and thus moved on to other interests in life. At the time McIntosh was highly respected. My grandfather owned several McIntosh pieces and I revered them with their blue glow. Now it's time for me to become an audiophile again and I'm upgrading my system. I still have reverence for Mac equipment and love it's industrial design. Is McIntosh still highly respected, or have they become passe? Should I still consider a Mac integrated amp? I'm also exploring an Arcam A85 integrated. I'll be driving a pair of Paradigm Studio/20s. Thanks!