mcintosh and b.a.t.

I've been using a BAT VK-31SE tubed pre with a Mac MC402 for the past 3 years with excellent results. As Blindjim mentioned, make sure you use balanced ICs with any BAT electronics

I'd second Bobs input.

of the two lines I like the SS amps each maker has produced. Favs there are the MC602 and the BAT VK500 w/BAT pk. Although each provides different levels of power out, their overall voicing is similar. Naturally, the vk500 would be less expensive now as it is no longer current prod.

the MC 402 is right in there between them and has very good power making speaker choices vastly less problematic and of course, is a current prod model.

Simply ensure you run 'em XLR.

Its a good thing,,though BAT is as strong as Mac and the synergy is at least as good if not better together.Pick a speaker and then your amp for that synergy combo also.Good luck,Bob