As a long time McIntosh owner I would take a serious look at the MC352 or a MC402. They will have a much quieter background than the 252 or 302. McIntosh does not incorporate their double balanced circuitry in the 202,250 or 302. And with any Ayre Pre I think you will hear the difference. You don't mention budget but I see 352's here all the time in the 3K range and the 402's in the 4-4500 range.
Mcintosh with Ayre pre-amp
I have always wanted a Mcintosh power amp and love the way they sound, but I don't know if it would pair well with my Ayre K-5xe preamp. I haven't been able to find anyone with this combination. Maybe this is an indicator that mixing Ayre with Mcintosh is a bad idea? Before I drop a few G's on a Mac amp, what would you guys advise? Thanks.