Revel Studio 1, B&W 802N or Sonus Faber Cremonas

"Yes give me the old Salon over the new one all day. I don't buy "high end gear" made in China....."

Your loss. Lots of beautiful High End stuff comes from China these days :-)

To the TS: Listen, listen, listen, that's all anyone can say. Recommendations of strangers can be helpfull, but are by no means a guarantee you'll make the right choice. No-one knows your room accoustics, no-one knows the way you listen to music, no-one knows how you make your decisions. Goodluck to you in this quest!

Mtdking ..Your an Idiot!!!

In my opinion, The MA7000 stands as one of the few integrated amplifiers that is able to combine the fluid sound of a short circuit along with the robust and 'large' sound that is typically reserved for separates. It's super linear piece, and that 5-band EQ is so well done that it really allows you to fine tune your system without causing horrible phase shifts. Tis' a great one-box solution.

If you do go that route, than there would be no reason why not to complete the circle by purchasing the MCD-500 SACD/CD player. It's probably the best single-box CD-Player that McIntosh has ever made (the same can arguably be said for the MA7000). This combination is pretty damned good, and moreover, it has a sound that will lend itself well to an extremely wide variety of loudspeakers.

To offer my completely bias opinion: Of your list, I'd say that Sonus Faber makes for the best match with McIntosh gear. I also feel that Sonus Faber produces more of an 'engaging' presentation, albeit colored when sat directly next to Revel's or B&W Nauts. At that price point, I'd mark Sonus Faber down on the short list and then seriously consider a set of TIDAL Piano's, or even go the opposite way and lay down some cash on a used set of Wilson Audio Watt Pup's. I'd rather take an updated set of Watt Puppy 5.1's or 6.1's over any of the Revel Salons anytime, but then again, that is just my own bias.

Considering the qualities you mentioned, the Thiele 2.4's would work very well. My sustem includes the MA7000, Thiele 2.4's and SuperNova cdp. Also remember by using an integrated amp the cable between pre and pa is eliminated.

I have heard Watt Puppy on Mac and Krell. Did not like. Music sounded like it was stuck inside the speaker.(dont bite me, my opinion. Hated the Grand Slam too.) Heard Revel Salon2s on Simaudio and Bryston and liked them very very much. B&W 802 sounds great on Mac or Classe. Put them on more analytical electronics and they will run you out of the room. Harsh. Sonus are great. They are lively. My biggest hesitation with Revel is the Harmon aspect. I did not know they are built in China now. I still vote Revel Salon2 as they are so smooth.