Wow along with Master M, Mr. lemonhaze has hit the nail on the head. I can take what some call MidFi gear and it sounds just as good in the end with a treated and acoustically tuned room as gear costing 10 times the amount. I have owned, fixed, borrowed, had gear left in wills, and been given a LOT of gear. Of all the gear none of it stands out as "The Best".
I like the layout of some gear because I'm a mechanic. When designers make a power amp complicated to access and repair that is a big mark against them. We are not trying to get to Mars with the silly thing and it doesn't have to do triple duty like be a toilet and part of the landing gear too.
I think about Pass design power amps X600.8 are 27,000.00 for a pair, X250.8 a little over 10K.
I can use a Threshold for 2500-3500.00 and I'd doubt a soul could say one sounded "BETTER" in any way, than the BIG dollar Pass. At the time Threshold wasn't cheap and still aren't. A 550e is a pretty amazing piece of gear.
Mcintosh gear, some like it, some don't. Just like anything else, you have to learn about their gear. 50 years with Mac. Is there gear that will do something Mac gear doesn't do?
I could start and finish a setup with just Mcintosh gear. From the wall outlet to the Turntable's dust cover with top quality service, performance, selection and a wonderful visual.
Are there better sounding all in one systems? Show me ONE manufacture that has everything. EVERYTHING. Including servicing everything they have EVER made around the world..
Pick TWO that can do it all, THREE, put three companies together and do it..:-) I picked Mac because my DADDY and MOMMY did to.. So there... I don't know how to stick out my tongue, but I did.
Give credit where credit is due, Mcintosh is a symbol of success in ALL parts of the world, not just the US.
I'm not paid for, or sell or promote ANY gear other than because I LIKE it.. NO ONE PAYS me for any type of service other than sexual favors.. I have my limits. No need to be a prude!
Happy New Year..
