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 3 responses by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,245 posts
 

If you liked the sound of your past and current McIntosh SS, that MA 8950 is an amazing combo of features. One location, zero cables for DAC and minimum cables for Phono is a good thing. Single remote also a treat.

There must be reviews online about the DAC2, which are easily upgraded, and the sound quality of their MM and MC (adjustable) phono stages.

8/4/2 ohms, 200wpc, with big reserve for instantaneous needs.

I imagine it has balance electronically, thus adjust for errant tracks from listening position. I wish the equalizer was remote also, always better than adjusting on he device. Those are personal peeves of mine, and very few (none I know of) have remote balance/eq.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,245 posts
 

As for speakers, don't forget you can adjust them for your room/placement/preferences with the EQ in the MA 8950, another reason to choose that amp.

It doesn't hurt to think resale when choosing.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,245 posts
 

The MA352 is a beauty, and you get tube front end, very nice, less features, but you have some separates now.

200wpc 8 ohms, 320 wpc 4 ohms is nice feature to have

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