2. amps-preamps
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Vintage vs. new McIntosh amps long

Some background first. My system consists of a Basis 2001/Graham 2.2/Benz Micro Ruby 3 and a Rega Planet as sources. A Pass Xono, c-j PF2 and c-j MF2200 are the electronics driving B&W N802s. All except the Xono I've had for 8+ years. I really have no experience with other electronics on the 802s. I had always planned to replace the c-j gear with something more on par with my analog rig and speakers. I listen to LPs 90% of the time and mainly to jazz, rock, blues, classical and acoustic instrumental.

Posts I've read recommended McIntosh amps as good matches for the N802s. I was able to borrow a friends vintage 70's MC 2205. The authority it drives the 802's woofers with really put my c-j to shame. Much deeper and solid bass resulting in a larger soundstage. It also takes the stridency out of the sound I've been fighting for longer than I care to remember.

Unfortunately, the amp has some condition issues. The meters illuminate but don't work, the power mode lights don't light so I can't say that circuitry works for sure. Add a fair amount of rust on the chassis and silkscreen lettering issues. Can't say I'm thrilled with the wimpy power cord, speaker terminal strips or the input connectors. But man it sings, and if I forgo remote volume control, I wouldn't need a preamp since it has individual volume controls.

Now my question. What differences in sound can I expect between a vintage amp like this vs. a newer Mac - say something built in this millenium? It appears to me Mac experienced something of a revival since the dog years after they were sold. I'm trying to decide if it's worth living with a known vintage piece with it's issues and or buying new.

Relax, have a Dogfish Head 90-minute IPA and listen to Harry James....
guinness

Showing 1 response by sid42

sid42
301 posts
 
Having owned the 2125, 2155,2205, 2255, 2002, and my all-time favorite-the MC7200, you will find a big difference between the model you tried and the 7200. Personally, I have never been enamored of Mac's amps with the autoformers, the bass sounding flabby and not crisp and tight. My 7200 is direct-coupled, with great bass. I have not tried the new amps, as cost is prohibitive in retirement!
The problems you described with lighting could just be that-sounds like bulbs need to be replaced. Some Mac amps of that vintage had a circuit board for each meter, and sometimes they needed to be pulled out of their mounting slots and contacts cleaned, and re-inserted. I had a lot of trouble with one 2155's meters doing what you describe, as I recall. The power cord can be changed, but Mac felt it was fine at the time, so that would'nt be an issue with me. Rust is another issue, however, depending on what/where it is.
Everyone seems to rave about the new stuff, although I sure see a lot of them going up for sale here on the 'Gon. If you want more expert advice, contact "Aball" (Arthur) here on Audiogon-he's tried lots of Mac gear, and has some pretty sound advice.
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