Mcintosh MC402, Krell FPB 600 or Passlabs x250.5


Hi guys, need some advice on the above power amp option.

I'm currently using a pair of Sonus Faber Olympica II. It was placed in bedroom and only driven by Krell 400xi.

Now the setup has been moved to living hall and I'm getting a pre-power amp to drive the Olympica II as the krell 400xi obviously doesn't have enough juice. I've tried it with krell 400xi in living hall and the bass extension is just not there, even though I do like the soundstage, smooth mid / high that the 400xi is able to produce with the olympica.

Recently I came across a used Mcintosh C40, and it was always in my wishlist to one day try the mcintosh gear. I bought the C40 and now looking for a power amp to pair with it. Naturally, it would make sense to match Mac Pre with a Mac power, but I would like to open up for more option.

I know each of those three are distinct in their power rating, but I don't always listen at loud level. I listen to all genre of music, but probably spend more time on vocal songs.

Does anyone have experience pairing them with Sonus Faber with great result? In fact all of them cost about the same (I found used unit in my local dealer). Or there's other candidate that I should consider also?

Thanks!
nicholas_1213

Showing 3 responses by mattmiller

Nicholas, Did you know that McIntosh was responsible for the amplification at WOODSTOCK (now if the sound was bad, all those people would have left...lol ). You made the right choice. McIntosh makes some of the best amplifiers on the planet, in all respects ie...Beauty and quickness of sound, reliability, ruggedness, and build quality with stunning looks. The reason you like the MAC is that at high volume levels it dosent drive you out of the room! All the while still providing the emotion and presence of the musical event. Fatigue is a non factor when listening. These are hallmarks of McIntosh amplifiers, and they have only improved their design over the last 60 years in business. McIntosh makes a lot of products, but their amplifiers (2 channel) tubed and solid state are what the companys foundation is built on. Great choice!


Matt M