Advance Paris A12 v. McIntosh MA352

I purchased the MA352 about 4 months ago.  It is a great unit.  Part of your answer might be what functions you do or don't need on either amp.  The Paris has a built in DAC which I prefer to be in a stand alone unit.  The MA352 does have a 5 band EQ which can be quite helpful.  The Paris has a more flexible phono stage and subwoofer outs if those are needed.

 I'm a MAC fan but in this case, I’d go with the Paris, looks way better, less money so not paying the MAC tax, probably hold its value as good as the MAC. I don't feel the style of MA352 will hold its value as well as the better MAC's as the MA352 doesn’t have output transformers which is MAC's claim to fame. Also, the look is not traditional MAC. For sound signatures you will have to read reviews and glean which you may prefer, I’m betting both are excellent and comparable. Meters in the Paris!

Always McIntosh :)

Maybe the sound isn’t quite as divine
As amps that cost less and measure just fine.
Maybe the looks aren’t sleek, sharp, or clean -
Not minimal modern, not brushed-silver sheen.

Maybe those blue meters, glowing so bright,
Irritate some when they stare at them late at night.
Maybe the weight is absurdly extreme - 
A workout disguised as an audiophile dream.

Maybe the knobs feel a touch overdone,
Like retro excess from 1971.
Maybe the price makes your wallet retreat…
Yet somehow it still feels impossibly sweet.

Maybe the quirks make the critics all scoff…
But flip that switch once - and good luck turning it off!

Would help greatly to know what you’re using now, what specific improvements you’re looking for, what sound characteristics are most important to you, and what speakers you’re using.  Also, why would you limit yourself to just those two — the meters?

FYI

The Blue meter lights on an  A10 Classic could not turned off or dimmed.

The A12 is probably the same.

John