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Tempted to buy a Macintosh

I am quite tempted to buy a Macintosh amp, and would like to learn more about it.

I have a Almarro 318B (18W) integrated and a Triode Lab 2A3 integrated.  For speakers, I have a set of Zu Omen Def I and Spatial Audio X5.  I haven’t heard a Masintosh in person.  I mainly like its retro look.  From reviews, I heard it has a very smooth sound, which may match with my listening preference.  I only listen to Jazz and Bossa Nova with low-medium volume.  And my questions are:

1) My speakers are efficient speakers and I listen in low volume.  So, I don’t need and want big power.  Is Macintosh a good match to my speakers?  I have no interest to change my speakers for now.

2) my budget is around $3000 for used equipment.  That is not a lot for a Mac.  So, it seems I would go for an integrated.  

3) I like tubes, but it seems Macintosh is more a SS brand.  And it seems there is no tube integrated.  The entry level MA252 is a hybrid with a tube preamp and SS amp.  I listen to some your tube video and it sounds great.  But of course, can’t draw any conclusion base on YouTube videos.  Is that a good choice to step into Macintosh world?  Or people would suggest to go different routes to get the full potential of Macintosh?  That is all SS, or separate tube pre amp (e.g. Coincident or Supratek) and power amp (MC275)?
gte357s
joeinid's avatar
joeinid
658 posts
 
Amps that put out the same watts into all ohm ratings listed have autoformers. Those that give different power ratings for 4/8 ohms (typically) don’t have autoformers.
allenf1963
273 posts
 
@raysmtb1,

Welcome to the audio forum.  I've only been in the forum for about one year, but I've met some really nice individuals that know their stuff when it comes to audio.  REALLY know their stuff and happy to pass on their knowledge.  Many times the information shared back and forth goes over my head, and I'm sure I have asked some questions that have given most members a good chuckle.  But I always get polite answers full of information for the most part....then there are a few dicks as you've found out.  Ignore them as I do -- life's too short to waste time on them.  I'm glad to see that you are tackling the life challenge you've been handed, kudos to you. 
mhart032
34 posts
 
I run dual McIntosh 7300s bridged mono for 600watts per channel with a mc preamp and also have the dual MC275s for when I want tubes. Ran off the McIntosh c2600, I've ran a ton of speakers with this setup. I love the mc sound for me or rivals my vintage Conrad Johnson setup and beats the McCormick and audible illusions system. Yes the meters are cool and all, but the sound it's pure to me, no color and great for vinyl or digital through my dac. 
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,549 posts
 
Great stuff!
if your set on a Mac, your in the correct direction.

Mac gear is amazing, service is great, BUT, buying used gear I believe is NOT serviceable, ONLY TO ORIGINAL purchaser.

tread lightly........

find out before u drop a lot of coin.

The McCormack amps are absolutely no slouch.
  Great service as well, and you can call Steve McCormack and speak to him directly over the phone!!

 The new revamped SMC audio is amazing! 
Double,check the,warranty/service buying a used Mac amp.
arno3
12 posts
 
Don't forget to try the vintage Mcintosh integrate ma 6850. It blows away all my other Mcintosh ss gear and it was my cheapest Mcintosh purchase. I use it on Harbeth super hl5 plus, on more efficient speakers it's even better.
good luck to you.

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