2. amps-preamps
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Would a stereo Sim Audio Moon 861 amp be as powerful as 2 McIntosh 611 monoblock amps?

It’s hard to know because of AC current measurements in addition to wattage rating of a amp. I was wondering... would a single stereo Sim Audio Moon 871 amp (300 watts 8 ohm/ 600 watts 4 ohm) stereo amp play as loud as 2 McIntosh MC611 monoblocks (600 watts at all ohms) without losing sound quality or struggle? For speakers, it would be Focal Sopra n2s or Dynaudios of similar tier. I'm thinking about 85 decibel level. 

dman777

Showing 3 responses by overthemoon

overthemoon
477 posts
 

I believe yes based on my experience with both brands. 
 

  • I compared McIntosh MC-462 (450 watts/channel) versus Moon 330A (125 watts/channel) with Sonus faber Olympica Nova III and the Moon was more dynamic 
  • I bought 2 Moon M400 - mono version of the 330A rated at 400 watts.  I replaced those amps with Moon’s 860A v2. The amp was a significant improvement in every way. The amp is rated at 225 watts/channel 
  • I had a McIntosh MC-302 (300 watts/channel) prior to switching to Moon. 

I tend to listen loud commonly 85 dbs though I strive to keep it under 100. I used to be an artillery guy so I am used to loud things. I’ve never experienced my 860 getting warm.  
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I enjoyed my McIntosh but the ‘watts’ aren’t the same as Moons. I don’t think the 611s would keep up with the Moon 861.

overthemoon
477 posts
 

Moon 791 - I initially used a 390. 
 

You may want to consider the 761 amp as well. 

overthemoon
477 posts
 

@dman777 I don’t think anything is crazy. Many folks like to use tube preamps. I had the McIntosh C2600 and thought it was wonderful. 

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