I have owned all Mac systems (C1100 and Mc2102) and all ARC systems (too numerous to mention) and a few combinations of ARC preamps and Mac amps--the last being the Ref 5 and Mc 2102. Despite my preference for ARC sound (I have an all ARC system today), I can say without hesitation that the ARC pre with the Mac amp was the worst of both worlds. You are better off with all Mac or all ARC. Either of these combos will beat any combo of Mac and ARC that I have ever heard.
