In case the OP is still in doubt which amp. Today I auditioned the pathos vs MA252 head to head driving Sonus Faber Olympica 2. The MA252 is more muscular amp having better attack, dynamics, decay, grunt and slightly better timbral accuracy. On the other hand Pathos is more refined, more tube like, deeper soundstage but lacks in bass and treble extension when compared to MA252. Think of the McIntosh like a solid state sound while pathos is more tube like. The pathos may sound more compressed when you directly compare to the MA, but in my opinion it's more neutral and you will appreciate more in long term listening sessions. However, Both are great amplifiers, choose what you like most.
