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Classic McIntosh tube amp or new other brand

In my quest to purchase a tube amp I am faced with the following dilemma, within the given price range, is it preferable to purchase a classic McIntosh amp, such as MC-30 monoblocks or MC-240 or by another brand in new or near new condition?

As an alternative I am considering Quicksiler Mid-Monos, Cary Rocket 88, Leben CS300 to name a few...

Currently, I am driving Monitor Audio RS-6s, with a 35W Marantz PM5003. I am happy with the power.

Preference is based on the following;
Sound Quality, resale value, life expectancy as well as cost of replacing tubes over the life of the unit.

Your input would be greatly appreciated
nick_sr

Showing 2 responses by mechans

mechans
3,048 posts
 
Another Brand. I like the quickies I have heard but especially like Cary tube gear. The Mac 240 will cost you a pretty penny. Then refurbing it to grand hieghts may (will) cost a lot mote. The return on that is not a net profit. I lose money on every deal .
I just don't look to this hobby for investment.
I got a pair of HH Scott, S1-SH11, "impedance control" speakers for free froM a guy at a second hand shop. I buy half broken TTs there.
I expected a blurry, dull, uninspiring sound for use in training for "the dumpster speaker put", a new olympic sport. I chose an album that I love. I mean it- damn if they didn't sound good . I don't know..... for sure they weren't masterpieces.... but they made me quite happy that's good enough. Makes me wonder about the money we all have poored into this chase for perfection
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Try a Cary pre with cary. I use the cheapest one ever a AE-3 originaly $550 but $300 used> Ae is a sub brand made by Cary that they DC'ed due to canabalizing the parent brand I suspect. It uses only two tubes there are a few around still. The remote and the upgrade will cost a lot more but under $1K loaded new (Upscale had some). Ckeck out Audio advisor demos . That can drive it an 88 .
The Quicksilvers are remarkable bargains I can't argue with that So if you like em.
BTW The Cary of choice is the big V12 with either 100 per side AB or 50 triode user selects.
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