McIntosh decisions

First off, I love my McIntosh separates. C55 and MC601 monos. My only experience with Mac integrateds was the MA352 and I did not like it at all. My advice is to try and compare the 2800 with one of the solid states pre’s, like the C55. Mac tube stuff is not very “tubey” IMO. Yes, I know you can tube roll, but really not interested. I’ve come to appreciate my Mac solid state pre much more than the my previous Mac tube pre.

I used to own an MA75000 and then went to separates and got an MC452 with a C2500.  The major positive to separates is that the amplifier will never be obsolete. As long as it works, you’re set. With the preamplifier, streaming and DAC technology will keep improving and if you ever feel the urge to upgrade, you can just upgrade the pre. I also think you’ll have better resale value with the separates. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a Mac. 

The McIntosh MA 12000 has a Power Guard Technology to prevent clipping or over driving. The Amati G5 is a very amplifier sensitive speaker, during a demo an Atoll AM 400 bridged had little if any bass control, no cohesion and sounded outclassed. A MA 12000 was implemented and everything improved tenfold, not claiming I would pair the MA 12000 with the Amati G5 as a reference but still a very good synergistic match. Comparing a SF Amati G5 to a SF Nova series loudspeaker is complete nonsense.

Save yourself worry, and about potential future speaker upgrades, and get the MC2152.  Or MC1502 As it is the newer, non-Anniversary edition.  It powers my Liliums beautifully, and I use separate preamps (phono & C1100), along with DAC & CD Transport.  Never an issue with clipping on the Liliums, and I do play them loud sometimes.

Not great service when they break.