I went to two audio stores today, just to listen and look at the MA12000 in person for the first time. But I promised myself not to buy it today.
A month ago, I decided that I want an MA9500 because I heard it’s quieter because the tube pre-amp stage of the MA12000 make more noise.
However, just when I am about to pull the trigger on the MA9500, McIntosh release the 75th Anniversary Edition of the MA12000, Part# MA12000-AN.
Since I am not the type that change audio gear every year, I want to have something that feel special, like a 75th anniversary edition which only available as the MA12000 and not the MA9500. That is why I want to make sure that the MA12000 does not have noticeable noise, so I need to hear the MA12000 in person.
The first store does not have MA12000 in stock, but he has a $42,000 Linn Klimax Streamer directly driving a pair of MC611 monoblock and Monitor Audio Platinum 300 3G speakers.
The second store has an MA12000 in stock, connected to Bowers & Wilkins 702S3 speakers. I forgot what the streamer was, but it is certainly not at Linn Klimax level (or pricing).
I played Madonna Voque as a reference song for both demo, and I must say, the MA12000 with 702S3 (in the second store) actually sounds better to my ear. Its more lively and more fun. It might be the speaker, but to me the lower cost, simpler MA12000 NON quad balanced integrated amplifier vs. the MC611 quad balanced monoblock amplifier does not make that much difference.
I also love the looks of the MA12000 so much (looks better in person then in pictures) that I decided to buy it today, even though I promise my self not to buy it today. I think the MA12000 is one if not the most beautiful design compare to other equipments made by McIntosh today.
What funny was, I actually drive back to the first store who did not have the MA12000 in stock and pay in full today simply because, the first store are much nicer peoples. The treatment was quite a stark contrast, especially on the first minutes I walk into the store.
The first store, called me when I was driving to the shop, apologizing that his employee who answer the phone earlier did not ask what equipment I want to see, and apologizing more that he did not have an MA12000 in stock. Please note, I was driving through California torrential rain to his store today.
The second store, on the other hand, the moment I opened the door, the owner stared at me like I was about to ask for a donation (eventhough I dressed well). He then asked, what am I looking for, and only after I said, I am looking for MA12000, he become a bit nicer and called his son to helped me. So sad...
The first store, also tried to call McIntosh regional sales manager in front of me, to find out when he can get MA12000-AN 75th Anniversary Edition, while the second store, don’t even ask what my name was, and what my cellphone number was... Heck, I even gave him a chance to ask my contact info when I ask for his business card...
Also note, at the second store, I was helped by the son’s owner... so it’s not like he is a simple sales person,... The son’s owner of the second store tried hard to be nice, but it felt a bit forced/unnatural.
The owner of the first store on the other hand is a genuinely nice person. Yes, he still has to make money and he is not shying away about it, but he is just a nice person that I want to buy my McIntosh from.
Anyway, back to the topic, I believe OP should not hesitate to upgrade to MA12000 from a pair of 452. I mean even a 611 does not make much different to my ear, so I don’t think a 452 will.
I can’t wait to get my MA12000-AN 75th Anniversary Edition, and will report how it sound at my home in this forum, hopefully soon.