2. amps-preamps
  3. 161410-145653

Used McIntosh Amp or better new options out there? - Amplifier or Integrated

A little about me, I am in the process of building my next step up 2-channel system for a listening room that is 17’x13’x12’. Current gear: LS50 and Paradigm Studio 20 v5 + Rotel RA-12 + SB2000 
For me new speakers I’m thinking in the $3-4k price range floor standing speakers. Some of the speakers I’m considering: Dynaudio Evoke 50, KEF R7, Focal Aria 936, Salk Song3 tower and my stretch budget option is the 805 D3s. 
I mostly listen to Jazz, orchestra/instrumental, Pop, some trance/electronic and Classic rock. I’m a fan of a clean but less harsh highs, non shouty mids and tight controlled bass. 

Now back to the topic at hand. I came across a used MC152 at a local high end audio store. The sales guy indicated this was originally a demo amp from their store that one of their regulars bought and recently traded it in for a large Mac amp. He indicated its from 2017, but no way for me to know for sure (not sure if the serial number will let me look it up?). I auditioned this amp on speakers they had in store and I really liked the sound it produced on my usual music tracks. However the left VU meter needle on this amp was not working. Apart from that looked in mint condition, not scratches, no marks on the screws that would indicate tampering. The dealer said he’ll get it serviced from a local third party McIntosh repair shop and can then sell it to me once fixed and I’m satisfied with its condition. They are asking $2.8k for this amp, which is what attracted me to it given how expensive they are normally. 

Now my question is, should I bother taking the plunge? Now that I found out the VU meter is broken, I’m a little turned off since someone is now going to open this thing up (probably for the first time). I’ve heard Macs are bullet proof and last for ever, but does anyone see any red flags here or anything I should look for?

Given the $3k ish price range, is there something else I could consider in this range (I prefer Class AB or Tube or Tube Hybrid). Is paying close to retail for a new MC152 from a dealer worth the extra money (warranty and less anxiety)?  This is the first time I’m buying in this price range, so I want to make sure. I’m open to both a good stereo power amp or an integrated as long as its a sizeable upgrade from my RA-12. If its only an amp, I intend to us the RA-12 as a preamp for now till I can budget for a good tube preamp (Rogue Audio perhaps) 

I ideally wanted to stay at about $6k for speaker + amp and was leaning towards one of the Dynaudio towers + a parasound Halo or Rotel RA-1592 / 1582 MkII type amp. I always dreamed of owning a McIntosh or Luxman but couldn’t stomach to full retail price on those beauties. Any help to reduce my anxiety or providing some suggestions would be much appreciated :) 

Thank you! 
sr20022002

Showing 5 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
@OP,
I would recommend getting your speakers first, then choosing the remaining components. Some speakers work better with certain amp/preamps. 
If you buy your amps first, then you are locked into what speakers will work best with them.
And, 
I would add a pair of Vandersteen Treo's, used they would be in your budget.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
@OP,
Getting discounts from a dealer means building a relationship with him/her-and, buying enough equipment to make it worth the while.
-As far as class A goes, they can drive anything within their power range, just like any other amplifier. A lot depends upon the design. A Pass Amp will probably have greater ability to drive difficult loads than most other manufacturers.
Mac is a well respected brand, but there are many others out there that give them a run for the money. Ayre (SS), and Atmasphere(tubes) are my choices. Both play extremely well with my Vandy Treo's and VLR's.
B
gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
@OP,
See if your dealer will let you have a trial with the speakers. Paying a small amount would be a good idea to see if they:
1. Sound good in your room.
2. Work with your equipment.
In my opinion, you can either buy something at a discount, but might not like, or buy it at retail and have a time to listen to them, but still have the ability to return.
No free lunch.
And, remember it takes about a month for a speaker to break in...
Believe me, I tried going your route, but in the end, found it best to find a dealer you can trust. 
PM me if you want his name.-Though a quick search of my posts will probably give you that info.( And, no, you don't have to reside near him to get his great free advice).
Bob
gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
@OP,
I messaged you back.
@stereo5 ,
I agree with you post, but I will continue to say that certain speakers work better with certain amps/preamp. I really hate the bandied 'synergy' word, but it really does have a place in audio systems.
I also love the look of the Mac meters, and I respect their build, but, for my Vandy's, they just don't cut the mustard as well as Ayre or Belles.
Would they work well- Yes!
But, they wouldn't have the 'fire and lightning' (think 'All About Eve') the aforementioned manufacturers do with my speakers.
There is a new post on the Audiophilliac regarding an audiophile who seems to have bounced around with more speakers than I think he should have. Yes, he has quality equipment, but he seems to have relied upon his auditions in the store, rather than asking to demo the speakers in his own room. In the end, he just cycles through speakers.-And, if his dealer is competent, he would have guided him more carefully in his choices.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdX4_NJ4BP0
It pains me to see someone needing guidance just spending money and not getting that audio high when everything comes together.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
I sent you another PM.
I hope you get it.
bob
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