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McIntosh decisions

Hi everyone,

I’ve decided to go the McIntosh route for amplification in my system. Nova IIIs, combo of streaming and vinyl listening. 
 

I loved both the MA12000, and the C2800 with MC462 power amp combo. 
 

While I could hear very little difference between the two in the testing, I do like the app functionality with the C2800. Outside of that, I’m not sure if I should be going separates for that kind of additional spend. 
 

Is the C2800/MC462 separate combo really that much better than the MA1200 integrated? 
What do you think?

stephenwerner
altitudefidelity's avatar
altitudefidelity
3 posts
 

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. 

dayglow
2,456 posts
 

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.

pgaulke60
349 posts
 

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.

incorrigable
203 posts
 

Not great service when they break.

vmfire1
1 posts
 

I stayed solid state.  C55 with MC452. I like the app versatility.  I had the c53 and swapped it for the 55.  456/462 has plenty of ass to drive about anything.  
 

I ran B&W 803D speakers for a while.  Loved the setup.  But now the amp and pre are in my man cave powering MCXR100’s which I had in my living room.  Too much speaker for the room. They do well in the cave.  But honestly I like the B&W voicing so much.  I got a set of 805D4 Signatures for in there driven by a MA8900 with a DA2 board.  They are delightful.  
 

That’s my only integrated.  Small space. It’s great. Big space I have the separates and considered the MA12000 but just did not want to deal with my perceived hassle of Tubes etc.  

 

not sure if my thoughts help, but in the caliber of what you are considering, my humble opinion is you can’t go wrong.  It’s all about the space you are trying to fill.  
And of course your subjective feelings.  

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