I have seen some Interesting comments about Mcintosh lately

testpilot, have you ever ridden in a Ferrari?  It's impressive in the way a lot of high-end audio equipment is.  One can actually "be into" cars and not just buy them for the imagined status upgrade.  Certainly some people are in the latter category but not all are.

The "function worlds above other brands" is a silly statement, and patently untrue. Pateks and Rolexes are valuable (and relatively expensive) but not necessarily better at keeping time than many less precious mechanical watches, and McIntosh amps compete with far less costly things that are also well designed and sound astonishingly (and equally) good. Ever notice a Ball watch or Primaluna amp? An Oris, Jolida, or Vincent? Ever ride in a Mini turbo? Well, come on down!

We all hear differently.  I have an mc275.  I think it sounds fantastic and is well worth the money.  I had audio research, my friend owns atma-sphere and it sounds great.  For the money, the mc 275 is a great value.  But to my ears, everything has to be right.  Especially power tubes.  Just tried shuggie treasures and they will not be my choice.  I like the old vintage tung sols.  Maybe it is just that this amp really likes vintage tubes.

If the American people knew what I have done, they would hunt me down and kill me and audiophiles are getting harder to please. Hold on! the mic is on and we are live? Ok, please disregard this previous statement. This is not about building better sounding gear but rather establishing a better relationship with you. So what is wrong with McIntosh gear?

I just joined this site a few days ago. The reason I did is because I wanted to learn as much as I can about audio equipment as it has become a passionate hobby of mine. How disappointed I am to see a string of posts such as this one. A few of those who posted had valid good information. The rest however, had zero value to me and was an insult to my sensibility. Really!!!!! Some of it was like a childish playground bully session. How is it of value to audio lovers to go off on watches and cars and slam products you probably have little or no knowledge of? Wouldn't it have been easier to post information intended to educate interested folks with the same passion instead of popping off and showing your ignorance? I'm sure my post will infuriate some but I don't care. I will not be aware of your replies because I won't be back on this string. As soon as I finish my 2 cents worth here, I'm going to shut down my MA-452 powering my B&W 802D 2's, choose which Rolex to wear,  put the top down on my CLK-350 and go for a drive. It's a beautiful day here. Too bad I probably won't enjoy it because I have such s****y taste choosing such substandard products in all categories. Oh well, maybe I'm the ignorant one. Anyone want all of my crap for free?