2. amps-preamps
  3. 182500-170624

Tough amp decision

Hi everyone. Much appreciate the forum’s help in the past and have a tough amp decision coming up. I will make a big investment in electronics soon. My system has Qutest DAC, ARC LS25 II tube preamp, Adcom GSA 555 II amp. Speakers are Celestion 750se or B&W 803 matrix series II ($35 Habitat for Humanity!).Also getting into and really enjoying vinyl, Old Kenwood turntable and Bellari 129 phono preamp. I have my old record collection of about 2K albums so in the long run this will matter. The question: To upgrade I will audition two Mac integrateds: MA 8950, MA 352. Should I instead buy an amp (eg MC312, MC462 or Parasound JC5)? MA 8950 hits a lot of birds, with phonostage and DAC it would free up a lot of components for a second system, but top priority should be one with great sound. Tunes have helped the sharp, “hot” nature of the B and W. If I wait to audition amps I lose a chance to get the 8950 for 6.5K.  A lot of variables to ask you about, but that is the decision. Thanks a lot for you help!

arhgef
dinov's avatar
dinov
803 posts
 

McIntosh for sure!

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,352 posts
 

You have an excellent preamp. Just get a better amp. Also, don’t expect the McIntosh internal dac to be as good as the Qutest. 

gemoody
130 posts
 

i like the idea of an integrated w/ phono.  keep in mind that in this configuration, you will likely need to place your turntable nearby, as these low voltage signals often require.  

boostedis
92 posts
 

No offense to the Mac crowd, but they have maintained their house sound to the detriment of a more modern taste in sound presentation. I personally find Mac veiled and muddy in comparison to newer designs. I prefer greater neutrality than Mac but also more engagement like Pass Labs, Classe’, Hegel (cheaper option). I have not heard the Parasound but the JC5 would probably be the only one I would consider. I suspect the Mac and the JC5 will be polar opposites in terms of presentation so I’m a little confused by the OP’s selection of these Amps. The Qutest is also not the last word in modern DAC presentation (old school and a little sterile in comparison to say an R2R DAC sounds). My suggestion is to broaden your parameters and see what more modern gear offers these days.

Also a Hoosier! Beat Purdue!!

erik_squires
15,877 posts
 

You absolutely have to listen to the Mc and Parasound.  They don't sound alike at all to me.

Other brands to consider:  Ayre, Luxman.

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