I own the YBA, Passion. I liked it much better than the Mcintosh. From sound to build quality it took out the Mc. Never heard the Brinkman, so I can't say, but I would take book in a tete a tete the Passion would hold its own, rather easily. Infact, I liked the Passion more than the ML MF and the JRDG, as well. It's a beautiful piece of electronics. Read my review in the archives.
Mcintosh, YBA, Brinkman integrateds
I'm downsizing my system and I've narrowed my search to these three integrateds: Mcintosh MA6900, YBA Passion Integre and Brinkman The integrated. I would appreciate any opinions on them. I've demo'ed the Mcintosh, but don't have the ability to demo the YBA or the Brinkman (any other integrated recs are appreciated too). I like the Mcintosh, but from what I've read about the YBA and the Brinkman they may be smoother, more grain free, more accurate. The Mcintosh is big and heavy too, the others pretty compact, easier to manage in old age. What's important to me is accurate midrange, clean highs, bass oomph without bloom. I listen mostly to acoustic music (voice and instrument) with a smattering of rock and electronic and R&B (the Mcintosh seemed to do everything well). I've been spoiled by nice components and I don't want this downsize to hurt. I rarely listen in a sweet spot, mostly off to the side. Budget is appropriate for these products. I have an Electro CD player and Tannoy speakers. People seem to generally like the Mcintosh and the YBA without complaint. IYO, what's the best buy and hold option? Thanks for your time!