I have a lot of love for this magnificent, heavy bastard. It runs remarkably cool, has classic Mac looks, and grips speakers like few others can. I replaced the stock tubes, but didn’t think there was much improvement. Don’t waste money there. If you’re looking to go integrated, I don’t think you can go wrong with the 12000. And, they won’t make it forever, so there’s some potential for collectibility. Meantime, sit back and enjoy the hell out of listening to it, looking at it, turning the lights down and looking at it some more.
McIntosh MA8950 Upgrade to MA12000?
I’m running the MA8950 with my Wilson Audio Sabrina X speakers. The combination is incredible. I had been thinking about upgrading to the MA12000 which is the highest-end integrated amp McIntosh makes. It uses a tube pre-amp and solid state amp with 350W output via auto former. Both have the DA2. Would I notice anything? I was thinking this could then eventually power the Sasha V or whatever comes in the next gen.