Help! Buy McIntosh MA252?

No, its not overkill. And no, you can do better. For less even. Because your speakers are 90dB sensitivity, which is a bit low by my standards but still fine for one of these https://www.ravenaudio.com/product/nighthawk-mk3-tube-amplifier/ A Nighthawk will satisfy far more than any Mac at any price, and yes its enough power for your speakers.  

Its also the kind of quality that will have you happy for years and years. You'll be upgrading everything else long before you will feel the need for more amp. If indeed you ever do! It is in other words the sort of foundation stone on which a great system can be built.  

What does he mean by that? I can hear you saying. Well let me show you exactly what I mean by that. This is my system, and the Melody amp in it is not the caliber of the Nighthawk. Your amp will be better than mine. Upgrade everything around it, one day here you are: https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/8367

Thanks! I will check them out!

About three to four months ago, I was looking to purchase an integrated amplifier and went on to audition several amps and speakers. I listened to both the Raven Audio Blackhawk (which is one level above Nighthawk) as well as the McIntosh MA252, albeit not at the same location or the same day, so take my impressions with a grain of salt.

Personally, I don't think that the Nighthawk or Blackhawk are 'clearly' better than the MA252, it really depends on your preference and taste. Honestly, I could have lived with either. McIntosh certainly has a unique sound signature that you must listen to before writing it off. I'm going off on memory, but my impression was that the MA252 had more oomph and heft compared to the Nighthawk, but keep in mind the location, day of demo, and supporting equipment was completely different.

Another amp to consider is the Primaluna integrated. I was able to do a direct A/B between the Blackhawk and Primaluna Dialog HP, and preferred the Blackhawk but only by a small margin. Both Raven and McIntosh or made in the USA, while Primaluna is assembled in China. This may or may not be important to you.

Finally, if you go with the Mac, you can always recoup your investment if you plan to sell it down the road. Good luck!

Interesting... Leaning towards getting the MA252. Worst case scenario the dealer has a 10% restocking fee. Thanks!