2. amps-preamps
  3. 1043028009

Mcintosh, YBA, Brinkman integrateds

I'm downsizing my system and I've narrowed my search to these three integrateds: Mcintosh MA6900, YBA Passion Integre and Brinkman The integrated. I would appreciate any opinions on them. I've demo'ed the Mcintosh, but don't have the ability to demo the YBA or the Brinkman (any other integrated recs are appreciated too). I like the Mcintosh, but from what I've read about the YBA and the Brinkman they may be smoother, more grain free, more accurate. The Mcintosh is big and heavy too, the others pretty compact, easier to manage in old age. What's important to me is accurate midrange, clean highs, bass oomph without bloom. I listen mostly to acoustic music (voice and instrument) with a smattering of rock and electronic and R&B (the Mcintosh seemed to do everything well). I've been spoiled by nice components and I don't want this downsize to hurt. I rarely listen in a sweet spot, mostly off to the side. Budget is appropriate for these products. I have an Electro CD player and Tannoy speakers. People seem to generally like the Mcintosh and the YBA without complaint. IYO, what's the best buy and hold option? Thanks for your time!
scootsterd166

Showing 1 response by hififile

hififile
236 posts
 
Dear Scootster,

I had the exact same question & problem too. I bought and owned the YBA Integre' DT. It was a very fine piece. However it didn't give me all the sound & flexibility I wanted. I sold my YBA here on A-Gon last year and bought the new McIntosh Integrated from a Mac dealer who arranged for a demo in my home.

The McIntosh gave me better sound, way more power, much better flexibility. And you know, even though it's not considered audiophillic, I found the tone and loudness controls most useful and enjoyable on certain old records and CD's.

I bought the Mac CD player after that and they work very well together. I can give you the highest possible recommendation for the McIntosh. And I can say the YBA is also a very, very nice piece too.

I use Magnepan 1.6qr's and I have a pair of Joseph Audio RM-7 Sigs. The Mac sounded better on both in my Average sized living room.

Hope this helps, Happy Listening,
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