McIntosh autoformers vs direct-coupled output


Hi Out there!  I'm just getting back into audio after a 40 year hiatus.  An old "Tube" guy (McIntosh, Marantz, etc)
who didn't much care for the perceived change in sound with the intro of S.S. about 1970.

I happen to like certain features of McIntosh stuff. I'm also of the opinion that older, high grade items, brought
back to specs with judicious restoration, are more than adequate sonically, and a bargain against new.

All that said: I'd greatly appreciate feedback on the issue of McIntosh's Autoformer Amps vs direct-coupled.
Seems there's a serious division of opinion, and I'd like to hear yours!
Thanks for any/all input!
Bo
128x128broockies

Showing 1 response by audioman58

Personally I donot find McIntosh that much better sounding then average ,especially for the price ,they meters do you kool though.
i sold Macintosh for 2 years in Europe , the Danish Amplifiers 
as well as German beat them hands down , the Auto formers 
are not exceptional by any means , . Look at the parts quality a mass of red $7 wima capacitors , as well as power electrolytic caps 
plain decent quality caps ,nothing inside is top of the line .it sounds 
reasonably good ,and very dependable ,thst is why doctors ,and lawyers have bought them faithfully for years . Pass Labs for sure is a better product, watt vs watt, parasound Halo, and for sure Boulder in U.S amps ,as well as the Ampzilla monoblocks ,that don’t get much press since Jim B passed away.  McIntosh is a good product but overpriced considering the interior parts quality.
having many products modded ,I know parts quality very well vs
the competition.