Yes you have options. The MC 303 would allow you to have a back channel speaker as well as a pair of surround speakers. You haven't said what pre/pro you have but if it allows that hook-up and you have the ability to individually adjust the speakers volume/speaker size/distance (or Audessey DSP) it might improve your HT experience more than the MC 402. Don't let the output between 303 and 402 be the deciding factor. I would keep the 501's across the front in any case. Blu-Ray discs are adding channels every year it seems. I've seen AVR's with 9.1 channels!
McIntosh MC303 vs MC402 with 501's?
Hi there AGon,
I currently have 3 MC501's across the front for home theater and am wondering about completing the setup with either an MC402 or an MC303. I know that presents a plethora of amp org options, but I am wondering sonically what people reccomend.
I know the output specs on both and that on a per channel basis the 402 seems the route to go. But after reading on forums, and reading comments from Ron C, about the actual power vs rating of the 303 is different, I'm curious.
What I really want to know is do people think it a good combo having the 303 do center and surrounds in which case I'd have a 501 for trade or sale, or do I stick with my current belief that 501's have to be the best combo in this?
I currently have 3 MC501's across the front for home theater and am wondering about completing the setup with either an MC402 or an MC303. I know that presents a plethora of amp org options, but I am wondering sonically what people reccomend.
I know the output specs on both and that on a per channel basis the 402 seems the route to go. But after reading on forums, and reading comments from Ron C, about the actual power vs rating of the 303 is different, I'm curious.
What I really want to know is do people think it a good combo having the 303 do center and surrounds in which case I'd have a 501 for trade or sale, or do I stick with my current belief that 501's have to be the best combo in this?