Upgrade to McIntosh

Hello everyone,

I am looking to upgrade my hi-fi sytem.I demod MC 275 recently and loved the tuby,warm house sound of Mcintosh.

I will be pairing them with Sonus Faber Olympica 1.

I am torn between MA352 integrated and MC275+C8 separates. The latter is obviously more costly but I am willing to go for it if there are advantages.

How would the sound differ? What would be the most notable distinction between the two system in your opinion?

Thanks in advance

bjp9738 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 68 posts 02-21-2023 at 01:07am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Not really an apples to apples comparison. The MA352 is a hybrid integrated. Tube preamp, solid-state power amp. The MC275 is a true tube amp and probably more closer to the McIntosh sound than the MA352. I owned an MA352 for a while. Wasn’t crazy about it. Found it a bit harsh in the midrange and lacking top end detail. I ended up replacing it with McIntosh separates. If you demoed the MC275 and fell in love with it, you will not likely be satisfied with the MA352.
bjp9738 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 68 posts 02-21-2023 at 10:27pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete @wolfgangamadeusaudiophiliac I stayed with a tube preamp (C2700) and SS power amp (MC462) setup when I upgraded to separates. I'm very happy with the combo. Best of both worlds. The C2700 is a fantastic pre, IMO. Regarding the MA352 - To be fair, I think it just wasn't a great match with my speakers. It's a nice, solid unit, and most owners are very happy with it. I definitely seem to be in the minority with my experience.