2. amps-preamps
  3. 182500-170624

Tough amp decision

Hi everyone. Much appreciate the forum’s help in the past and have a tough amp decision coming up. I will make a big investment in electronics soon. My system has Qutest DAC, ARC LS25 II tube preamp, Adcom GSA 555 II amp. Speakers are Celestion 750se or B&W 803 matrix series II ($35 Habitat for Humanity!).Also getting into and really enjoying vinyl, Old Kenwood turntable and Bellari 129 phono preamp. I have my old record collection of about 2K albums so in the long run this will matter. The question: To upgrade I will audition two Mac integrateds: MA 8950, MA 352. Should I instead buy an amp (eg MC312, MC462 or Parasound JC5)? MA 8950 hits a lot of birds, with phonostage and DAC it would free up a lot of components for a second system, but top priority should be one with great sound. Tunes have helped the sharp, “hot” nature of the B and W. If I wait to audition amps I lose a chance to get the 8950 for 6.5K.  A lot of variables to ask you about, but that is the decision. Thanks a lot for you help!

arhgef

Showing 1 response by boostedis

boostedis
106 posts
 

No offense to the Mac crowd, but they have maintained their house sound to the detriment of a more modern taste in sound presentation. I personally find Mac veiled and muddy in comparison to newer designs. I prefer greater neutrality than Mac but also more engagement like Pass Labs, Classe’, Hegel (cheaper option). I have not heard the Parasound but the JC5 would probably be the only one I would consider. I suspect the Mac and the JC5 will be polar opposites in terms of presentation so I’m a little confused by the OP’s selection of these Amps. The Qutest is also not the last word in modern DAC presentation (old school and a little sterile in comparison to say an R2R DAC sounds). My suggestion is to broaden your parameters and see what more modern gear offers these days.

Also a Hoosier! Beat Purdue!!

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