Integrated brand choice -- Simaudio, Hegel or Mark Levinson?

@rsf507,

”anything but Mac”.  I’m confused, is it you or the OP who is buying?  If it’s the OP then you do him/her a big disservice by stating that. The person should try to look at all brands in his price range.  Just because you don’t like Mac doesn’t mean he won’t.   The person is purchasing for their taste, not yours. 

Mac is Midfi.  Rounds or smooth the sound.  Music is not smooth or round.

the naysaying is tiresome

all are good brands, make music in certain ways, with certain signatures

one must try and find their own sweet spot

for higher end focals, i would personally err on the side of gear that provides a softer sweeter uber refined high end, a neutral, detailed midrange and strong grip down below

For the Focal 1028be I would lean towards the Mark Levinson. I have a Hegel H360 and H590 and really appreciate what they do, but I've heard the 1028be with older average recordings and it needs a warm forgiving amp and Hegel's are neutral. Sim idk

Ayre, best I have found for my preferences after lots of gear. US made, great support, build quality and technology.