An Audio Amateur's question about McIntosh Audio

I have all McIntosh equipment for over a decade and love it.   It sounds superb and has been super reliable.  It is also easy to work on and contains quality components.  You can see my system by clicking on my signature avatar.  The "negatives" I have heard hear about McIntosh is that is that it is "over priced" and has it’s own signature (soft) sound.  Of course, the big positives are component longevity, brand recognition & longevity, great resale value, easy resale, looks great, sounds great. 
Yes, I agree with you some audiophiles snub their nose at McIntosh, I am really not sure why, since any of their negatives are also shared by other brands.  Audiogon Forum in general has not been a big fan, but, there are other McIntosh forums that gush over the McIntosh components. 
Note: McIntosh is also the "big kid on the block" and that by itself is enough to turn off some people. 

Some might say there is McIntosh and everyone else.  Except for their speakers, but that's a tangent for another day.  What I have found with McIntosh is similar to @hjdca, its just really good and seldom if ever has an issue.  That said, I would compare in the game of golf to the perfect drive.  It is always 300+ yards long and finds the middle of the fairway.  Or like owning a Ferrari and wondering why know one ask to borrow so they can move.  Is it the best musical amp/preamp etc.., or does it just do its own best version of perfect?  

But, is that what you want?  I have McIntosh and while I do love it, it isn't my favorite listening.  For that I have SET amp, driving 6 watts/channel into 100+db sensitive speakers.  We are all different and this "quest" we are on, is to find the match for our own ears and preferred music.  

It is well worth a listen but don't be amazed if, based on the place you are in on your "quest", you find you like something different.  

MacIntosh has a very specific sound. They remind me of Harley Davidson... well, except they make high quality products. Also, like Harley, they look really cool... very masculine.

The sound is throaty and deep, with a strong emphasis on midrange and bass. They pair well with B&W speakers... which are a bit hot on top. Great for rock and roll. 

But, as far as high end, they just do not have enough detail and balance to be included with the audiophile picks. So, companies like Boulder, Audio Research, dCS, Conrad Johnson, and contenders typically get the attention.

@ghdprentice has a good point.  Synergy is key.  I am mostly a rock and roll guy, and  I do pair my McIntosh Tube amps (two Mc275 in monoblock mode) and McIntosh tube preamp with Wilson Watt/Puppy 8 speakers which have a reputation for "great detail" and a "bright" tweeter.  Personally, I love the combo, -  maybe because one part of the system tames the other ?