McIntosh MA9000/MA12000

Kanta 2s + MA12000.

I can't even imagine what the Sopras would sound like - the Kantas are outstanding already.  Also, I find myself increasing the treble more often than not.  Despite what many people are saying of Kantas being too bright.  Must be the MA12000. 

Also, the MA9000 might not be enough to drive the Sopras - I do not have any scientific evidence to that.  But better get the MA12000 and not have any "what if" moments!

C2800 and MC462 would get you separates with a tube preamp and solid state stereo amp rated at 450 watts.  I don’t have separates but generally speaking it does everything better when you do.  Are you better off?  That depends on what you want.  It gives you more options to combine different preamps and amps.  Clarity, soundstage, transients, imaging are usually better, wider, deeper, and faster with separates.  If that’s what you want then separates are the way to go.  For $20k If I had the space I’d go with separates.

I have heard the McIntosh MA 12000 on multiple occasions and have even recommended it several times on Audiogon. The bottom line is it sits in the sweet spot of the entire McIntosh product line.

This is a hard question to answer.  It is really owner preference.  I am running all McIntosh separates setup with Tube monoblocks (pair of Mc275) and tube preamp, no subwoofer.  I get a smooth, sweet sound with lots of bass through my Wilson W/P 8.  McIntosh Integrated are well made and have great reviews and reputation.  You cannot go wrong either way.  True separates will cost you more on equipment and cables.  I have separates because I am old school and always wanted separates.  I like all the hardware and the sense of more tube dynamic range.  I also really wanted double the power in my large room, ie. the most tube amp power I could get.  In general, my opinion is that McIntosh tube equipment pairs very well with detailed oriented speakers.  The equipment complements each other and produces sweet music.  Since you already have powered subs, you probably need less power than I did, so, a stereo tube amp or integrated will probably work nicely. You can see my setup through the link in my signature.  Good luck on your search.