I have spent a fair amount of time comparing McIntosh and Audio Research equipment through the years. I too like the McIntosh aesthetics, but for critical listening Audio Research is typically the hands-down winner.
Mcintosh c-2300, is it worth the money?
I'm new to high end hi-fi, but learning. I recently purchased a pair of mc-501's. I plan on buying a tube preamp. I like the aesthetics of the c2300, but don't know much about it. I'm also looking at audio research sp-10, because everything I've read about them is positive. I'm trying to stay under $5000, new or used. Aesthetics are not as important to me as sound quality, but would like to have both. Any ideas?