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Separates over time, or Integrated now?

I started an earlier post debating between a MA9000/MA12000, both integrated choices.  You all gave great feedback and I appreciate it! (https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/mcintosh-ma9000-ma12000)

 

As I’ve thought more about it, if I decide to go the separates route my goal is the C2800 & MC462.  My question is: If I need to buy these over a year due to budget constraints, would it be just fine buying the C2800 now and pairing with my Michi X5 and then getting the MC462 next year?  Is that a terrible idea?

 

Better off getting an integrated now?  I just didn’t know if the above setup was dumb given the sonic differences of Michi and McIntosh and for a year I would have muddy/unmatched sound.

 

Maybe I’m thinking too much into, that’s why I need some advice.  Thank you!

From my other post: I have a pair of Focal Sopra No3s paired with (originally) a Cambridge Audio CXA81 integrated, then upgraded to the Michi X5 integrated.  I usually listen to vinyl on a Rega Planar 10/Athelion 2 (arrives tomorrow!)  

bound4h
bound4h OP
27 posts
 

Decision update:  I am buying the C2800 now or the MC462 now, the other component in 12 months. 

 

Really just deciding which to buy first that will be most impactful.  From what I’ve read, replacing the pre-amp functionality with a quality separate is a better choice..

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onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,448 posts
 

Get the integrated amp now and sell the Rotel.  If you go piecemeal with the separates you'll mentally be in limbo for the next year and be dissatisfied with your system, regardless of how it sounds.  The big McIntosh integrateds are very fine and you may end up thinking that you don't even need to go with separates.  And even if you do decide after enjoying the integrated to switch to separates, you'll probably not lose any money because of how McIntosh retains resale value.

Buying one separate now is a half-step.  Don't do half-steps.

jfrost27
109 posts
 

I’ve been a McIntosh owner since the late 70’s. I have owned both integrated and separates. While the integrated units are terrific, separates are the way to go. I think your plan is a good one. 12 months is not a long time to wait for the second step. It will go by in a flash. If you go with an integrated unit now, you’ll regret it and end up with the separates anyway. Just my two cents. Regardless of which way you go, you’ll never regret buying McIntosh. 

jmrrobbie1
94 posts
 

I was under the same olde school of thought (1960/70s) that separates are always better. I have had the Mc12000 for the past 6 yrs....It does everything well. most exceptional well, more connections than anyone can use. Before my purchase I did an A:A listening session with McIntosh separates and the 12000 in the same system...for my ears - the integrated was better. I have "tinkered" - tried a separate phono stage; the phono stage on the Mc12000 was better. I did go with a separate path for the digital side ... the DA2 card on the Mc12000 is good, but can’t compete with the Aurender N20/Berkley Audio DAC combo. Will be interesting when the DA3 comes out. 

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