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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
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,723 posts
 

I have both a McIntosh MA6600 integrated amp and a McIntosh C2500 tube preamp and a McIntosh  MC 302 power amp.  The separates sound better. Lower noise floor and better “ease” to the music. 

mark200mph
859 posts
 

I have the mcintosh c 12000 driving  several monoblock mcintosh with a xlr splitter with out any problems. Mcintosh has powergaurd as mentioned that protects it on bad voltages and sometimes puts it in limp mode. Also it has clip protection that won't let the amplifier clip. You can get on mcintosh  website and they list certified repair shops and there are plenty. I do also have the mi502 that is 4 hypex modules class d 500 watts in 8 1kw in 4 ohm. I have several brands but love my mcintosh  blue meters the best,well built and heavy stable to at least 2 ohms.enjoy the hunt and the music

avanti1960
1,745 posts
 

@stephenwerner 

My experience with preamplifier / amplifier combinations vs. integrated amplifiers is that the separate chassis systems sound lower in noise because of the individually isolated power supplies but the big plus to my ears is the life like excitement of 0 to 60 off the charts speed and dynamics.  

Once I went to separate chassis systems I stayed that way.  

Currently running a newer mint C22 MKIV retro look tube preamp and a new MC312 solid state power amp and loving the sound.  

yyman23
170 posts
 

I run a C2300 with MC601's mono blocks and I love that combination. The C2300 made my system sing. 

mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,620 posts
 

Ive owned Dynaudio Contour speakers (rated at 200wpc) for 25 years and recently I was able to obtain a second McIntosh MC352, I run these in mono for a minimum of 700wpc! Yes I have to be mindful of the volume knob, but the sound is much better, more impactful, more defined, better detail and improved dynamics. I never thought having so much power would be needed or wanted, but now that its hear I can never go back.  So I would say to the OP that separates are the way to go. But make sure your passing on the integrated for the right amplifier ...The MC462 is one of those amplifiers you keep forever and maybe even get another:-)

 

Matt M

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