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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
glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,993 posts
 

Why do you need New? I'd look at used and get what you know will be the end game. Mac gear holds it's value, and is serviceable. 

easystreamer
129 posts
 

Some of us have an aversion to anything used due to psychological factors and the the "yuck" factor of not knowing exact provenance. Yeah, its a brain wiring thing.

Having said that, there are a pretty mint looking C2800 and M462 available here for for a total of $15k compared to $22K new. That savings alone may get me past the used thing.

vvvvvv6's avatar
vvvvvv6
101 posts
 

Just get both separates and finance them. Why wait a whole year, we only live once.
I personally preferred the c2800 + mc462 combo sound wise, but I went with the ma12000 as I was concerned my shelf wouldn’t support the weight of two boxes 

incorrigable
207 posts
 

Look at more affordable class D monoblocks with useful power for your musical transitions. VTV, Wyred4Sound, Deer Creek. Financing consumer audio equipment is not sound management. Modern class D run cool and the mono design is easier to package in your living space. Plus if one quits you still have the other channel. You learn how good your speakers really are. 

superhonestben
224 posts
 

Its buy what you want, sounds like you want the separates and I agree, buy the c2800 now, and as @chenry above said get a NAD or other modest amp, I have done this many times over the yrs, works great, then when funds are good go for the 462, the key is you get to use and listen to the c2800 now.

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