McIntosh MC 275 Mark VI

I heard the SLH5+ speakers sound very good with a Conrad Johnson tube amp (I think it was a Classic 62 amp), a Synthesis A100 (integrated tube amp) and what I think was a rebuilt Western 124 amp.  The speaker struck me as being a bit on the finicky side--it had to be set up just right and with the right complement of gear--as compared to other more easy going models in the Harbeth lineup.  When set up right, it sounds very good.  In other words, I think you can only make a choice by a direct audition, preferably involving a dealer who will let you take the amp home.

My only experience with the current MC275 was not a good one.  In the system I heard it in, it sounded lifeless and a touch mushy--sort of a caricature of what some people think is the "tube sound."  I suppose it could be improved with different tubes, but, it was something that was turned in on trade and was soon to be sold on Audiogon, so nothing was done to optimize the sound; still, I am reasonably certain it was not the sound I like.

Two more suggestions.  The 30 watt Atma-Spere M 30 should be considered.  While I personally find it a touch "lean" in overall balance, there is something utterly magical about the liveliness and vivid quality of output transformerless amps.  The larger M 60, perhaps used, might be in the running.  These share a similar sound to the Berning ZOTL amps, but, the Bernings I heard were quite pricey.  I have not heard the ZOTL amps that are being made by another company under license from Berrning.