Another "JR" gets XRT1K's!

[JFR0317]

Apparently, it is possible to get a virus over the Internet, even using an Apple Macintosh computer. In this case, the virus is McIntosh addiction.

In other words, I just bought a pair of McIntosh XRT1K's! 10 days to two weeks to get them from McIntosh. :banana::banana:

[2000B King]

Apparently, it is possible to get a virus over the Internet, even using an Apple Macintosh computer. In this case, the virus is McIntosh addiction.

In other words, I just bought a pair of McIntosh XRT1K's! 10 days to two weeks to get them from McIntosh. :banana::banana:

Wow! Another XRT1k convert! Congrads !!! :thmbsp:

Enjoy !!! :banana:

[@TOMMY@]

Good for you :thmbsp: What are you running them with? Only 2 MC501s? :D
Be sure to post pics when you are ready!

[AFpay]

Good for you!! My friend has XRT1K's and his sound almost too good for words. I hope to get a pair one day, in the meantime I like to hear of other people getting them. Here is hoping that they arrive in 5 days.


AF

[DR. JAM]

Is that going to be for the upstairs or downstairs? Congrats-keep us updated when you get them.:thmbsp:

[Jericho]

congratulations, good choice!!!

[jrsystems]

Cancel them , they suck.


Just kidding!!!

Last night some friends came over and after some great food and terrific wine, we had a great listening session (once I threw out the chattering wives.) They were blown away by the system.

Last night I realized that my system cost more than my mother-in-law's house is worth!

Enjoy John, they are spectacular.

[jrsystems]

Good for you :thmbsp: What are you running them with? Only 2 MC501s? :D
Be sure to post pics when you are ready!

A related question for Howie, Ivan and the power mongers. I seem to be pushing the MC501's to the max quite frequently. I am always watching for the powerguard lights. I got all four flickering last night during the mandatory Master and Commander cannon demo. So for suggestions on which way to go:

1. Shut up and enjoy my already over-the-top 4 bi-amped MC501's
2. Trade the 4 MC501's, fairly even for closeout MC1201's
3. Wait a bit to trade up the 4 501's for a pair of MC1.2KW's
4. Wait a while and way trade up to 4 MC1.2KW's (in other words bi-amping with less power is still better than single amping with more)

I would love your thoughts on this.

[Kevin M.]

A related question for Howie, Ivan and the power mongers. I seem to be pushing the MC501's to the max quite frequently. I am always watching for the powerguard lights. I got all four flickering last night during the mandatory Master and Commander cannon demo. So for suggestions on which way to go:

1. Shut up and enjoy my already over-the-top 4 bi-amped MC501's
2. Trade the 4 MC501's, fairly even for closeout MC1201's
3. Wait a bit to trade up the 4 501's for a pair of MC1.2KW's
4. Wait a while and way trade up to 4 MC1.2KW's (in other words bi-amping with less power is still better than single amping with more)

I would love your thoughts on this.

I was thinking that in my case, I could use less power on my surround channels until I went back and watched "Master and Commander." Those are some hellacious peaks. Special case though, most other movies don't reach those peaks. I think you have to decide whether it worth it for the few times you encounter such peaks. I have yet to find another movies with so many peaks and the protection lighting up so much. Also, don't you still have some "room" before the protection really kicks in when the lights are just flickering?

[masterlu]

Apparently, it is possible to get a virus over the Internet, even using an Apple Macintosh computer. In this case, the virus is McIntosh addiction.

In other words, I just bought a pair of McIntosh XRT1K's! 10 days to two weeks to get them from McIntosh. :banana::banana:


Congrad's :thmbsp:

[2000B King]

A related question for Howie, Ivan and the power mongers. I seem to be pushing the MC501's to the max quite frequently. I am always watching for the powerguard lights. I got all four flickering last night during the mandatory Master and Commander cannon demo. So for suggestions on which way to go:

1. Shut up and enjoy my already over-the-top 4 bi-amped MC501's
2. Trade the 4 MC501's, fairly even for closeout MC1201's
3. Wait a bit to trade up the 4 501's for a pair of MC1.2KW's
4. Wait a while and way trade up to 4 MC1.2KW's (in other words bi-amping with less power is still better than single amping with more)

I would love your thoughts on this.

Hi JR,

My opinion, and I am NOT a power monger - you would need at least 2 pairs of MC1201's or MC1.2k's to made them speakers' sing! 3 pairs would be just nice. :D

Well, I am having 2 pairs of MS1201's powering my XRT30's and indeed, the musicality is simply astonishing! I have tried just one pair, nice as it may be, there is still this "constrain" performance. Once you have 2 pairs, everything starts to open up.

As to how you want to get there, well, if you can wait, the MC1.2k's should be the story as you have the latest model (LED, New Handles Model, etc, ...).

Thats my $0.02 cents worth of opinion.

Cheers!

[masterlu]

I was thinking that in my case, I could use less power on my surround channels until I went back and watched "Master and Commander." Those are some hellacious peaks. Special case though, most other movies don't reach those peaks. I think you have to decide whether it worth it for the few times you encounter such peaks. I have yet to find another movies with so many peaks and the protection lighting up so much. Also, don't you still have some "room" before the protection really kicks in when the lights are just flickering?


Don't think for a second, you need more power just for Demo's or Master & Commander. The Big Amps will improve every track, every day regardless of how loud or soft you play it.

Dynamic Headroom is real & what you want. It opens the speaker up (spatially speaking) giving additional attention to every subtle instrument. It Enhances & Widens the Sound Stage.

Then if there is a peak or crash, the attack is instantaneous. I'm sure this all sounds like a kid pushing bubble gum (or worse).

Remember when you went from your 100-200 watt amp to the the 501?

Well, the step up to the 1201 or 1.2KW is just as profound. Maybe more so now that you guys are driving XRT1K's.

[eljr]

Apparently, it is possible to get a virus over the Internet, even using an Apple Macintosh computer. In this case, the virus is McIntosh addiction.

In other words, I just bought a pair of McIntosh XRT1K's! 10 days to two weeks to get them from McIntosh. :banana::banana:

Congratulations! :thmbsp:

[masterlu]

A related question for Howie, Ivan and the power mongers. I seem to be pushing the MC501's to the max quite frequently. I am always watching for the powerguard lights. I got all four flickering last night during the mandatory Master and Commander cannon demo. So for suggestions on which way to go:

1. Shut up and enjoy my already over-the-top 4 bi-amped MC501's
2. Trade the 4 MC501's, fairly even for closeout MC1201's
3. Wait a bit to trade up the 4 501's for a pair of MC1.2KW's
4. Wait a while and way trade up to 4 MC1.2KW's (in other words bi-amping with less power is still better than single amping with more)

I would love your thoughts on this.


JR, I saved you for last.

1. I don't think so...
2. Not a good idea either...
3. You could do that, but I don't recommend it.
4. This is the real answer, and even though you may not want to hear it. Four MC1.2KW's will have you saying prayers in your listening room (religious experience). You will think you have new speakers for real.

Plenty of time though, sit back & enjoy your great system. The 1.2KW's will be ready when you are. :yes:

[masterlu]

P.S> Jerry is so far gone, he doesn't even know he is a Power Monger! :D

[samgar]

As an owner of a pair of XRT-1K's I will say you will love them.

Congratulations, you picked the right animals!

[JFR0317]

Thanks for the posts, everyone. As many of you have pointed out, these speakers will likely not be my last McPurchase. In the interim, my dealer is going to come up with some bi-amping scenarios to try to take advantage of some of my currently idle McInventory to supplement the 501's. My biggest problem is that the upstairs room where the XRT1K's will go is very limited on space for more amps. Check that, that is my second biggest problem. The first biggest will be waiting for the next two weeks that the dealer says it will take for the XRT1K's to arrive.

By the way, the dealer, Marvin Electronics in Fort Worth, is outstanding. None of the Houston dealers had a significant, if any, display of McSpeakers, so I made plans to make a visit to Marvin Electronics while we were in Fort Worth to attend a wedding this weekend. Marvin Electronics has a complete XRT2K, MC2KW, C1000, MDA1000, MCD1000, MT10 system that we got to listen to, and it was as awesome as expected. They also arranged on the spur of the moment for us to visit another customer's house to hear XRT28's driven via 501's just to bracket the XRT1K's. The entire process was the best experience I have ever had shopping for audio equipment.:D

[JFR0317]

One more thing - does anyone have more info on the new XCS1K speaker? I did a search and found Ron-C's post about the HT system McIntosh had at CES, which included one. I also found it listed in the "Compare Specs" area on the McIntosh website, which says it has two 10" woofers, 32 2" mid-ranges, and 20 3/4" tweeters, with overall dimensions of 18" x 40.5" x 20". I'll ask my dealer about it tomorrow, but any of your knowledge/thoughts about it would be much appreciated.

[Indy]

The MC 501's are spectacular amp's, the 1.2KW are in another league all together. As Ivan mentioned, "Dynamic Headroom is real & what you want. It opens the speaker up (spatially speaking) giving additional attention to every subtle instrument. It Enhances & Widens the Sound Stage". And this is evident at low, middle and high volumes.

There's more to the 1.2Kw than the new handles and LED.

[JohnThomas]

P.S> Jerry is so far gone, he doesn't even know he is a Power Monger! :D

I agree but we still love him. Well I guess I'm going to be the black sheep of the family. I bought a pair of speakers yesterday but they weren't the XRT1K.
Before I tell you the brand I will tell you the dumb reason why. It's all JR's fault!
I used to own B&W 802D's and loved the look but the boomy bass was driving me nuts. So I replaced them with PMC IB2's which are wonderful speakers that has a tight bass due to there tranmission line.They also have great synergy with my Mac gear. So far the last 9 months I'm in heaven and then JR goes on a speaker quest. So it gets my wheels turning. I say to myself self you have excellent Mac equipment, excellent cables,excellent plasma and great speakers. Not excellent but great. They are excellent but when compared to the next level there great. You know 402 vs. 501 vs. 1.2KW you get the idea. Morale of the story if you continue to read this forum you will continue to spend money. :yes:
Hansen Audio Prince V2

[masterlu]

One more thing - does anyone have more info on the new XCS1K speaker? I did a search and found Ron-C's post about the HT system McIntosh had at CES, which included one. I also found it listed in the "Compare Specs" area on the McIntosh website, which says it has two 10" woofers, 32 2" mid-ranges, and 20 3/4" tweeters, with overall dimensions of 18" x 40.5" x 20". I'll ask my dealer about it tomorrow, but any of your knowledge/thoughts about it would be much appreciated.


Companion to the XRT1K's, soon to be released (sometime this year perhaps). Retail rumored to be $8K.

[JFR0317]

Thanks, Ivan. Now I need to get back home to see where I could put one.:yes:

[masterlu]

I agree but we still love him. Well I guess I'm going to be the black sheep of the family. I bought a pair of speakers yesterday but they weren't the XRT1K.
Before I tell you the brand I will tell you the dumb reason why. It's all JR's fault!
I used to own B&W 802D's and loved the look but the boomy bass was driving me nuts. So I replaced them with PMC IB2's which are wonderful speakers that has a tight bass due to there tranmission line.They also have great synergy with my Mac gear. So far the last 9 months I'm in heaven and then JR goes on a speaker quest. So it gets my wheels turning. I say to myself self you have excellent Mac equipment, excellent cables,excellent plasma and great speakers. Not excellent but great. They are excellent but when compared to the next level there great. You know 402 vs. 501 vs. 1.2KW you get the idea. Morale of the story if you continue to read this forum you will continue to spend money. :yes:
Hansen Audio Prince V2


Non-Mac Speakers :yikes:

You are really stressing the relationship!

Enjoy, if your happy; we're all happy. :thmbsp:

[masterlu]

Thanks, Ivan. Now I need to get back home to see where I could put one.:yes:

In the middle, preferably on the floor. :naughty:

[JFR0317]

On the floor is likely my only option. I currently have my B&W Nautilus HTM1 on a shelf immediately above the plasma TV, but there is a fixed shelf above the speaker that I don't think leaves enough room for the XCS1K. At least by checking it out, I can tell my wife, "Well, it won't fit on the shelf, and masterlu says it belongs on the floor anyway.":banana:

[Victor]

A related question for Howie, Ivan and the power mongers. I seem to be pushing the MC501's to the max quite frequently. I am always watching for the powerguard lights. I got all four flickering last night during the mandatory Master and Commander cannon demo. So for suggestions on which way to go:

1. Shut up and enjoy my already over-the-top 4 bi-amped MC501's
2. Trade the 4 MC501's, fairly even for closeout MC1201's
3. Wait a bit to trade up the 4 501's for a pair of MC1.2KW's
4. Wait a while and way trade up to 4 MC1.2KW's (in other words bi-amping with less power is still better than single amping with more)

I would love your thoughts on this.
I don't think of myself as a power monger either but here are my findings. With my XRT30 speakers I find if I use just one amp channel for each side the soundstage is significantly smaller. In my system I'm using MC501s for the columns and a lowly MC162 for the bass cabinets. I was originally planning to use a MC501 per side but to my great surprise it sounds much better with the MC162 bi-amping the system.

Your are using different speakers but they are a similar design, so I would expect similar results. You could try using just 2 MC501s in your system for a test to see if there is a change in the soundstage and sound of your speakers.

I would highly recommend option #4 or a slightly revised version of option #4. Wait a little while and get 2 MC1.2KW amps and use a tri-amp setup with your 4 MC501s. Then get the other 2 MC1.2KW amps a while after that.

Victor

[william.keith]

None of the Houston dealers had a significant, if any, display of McSpeakers...D

What I have been saying for some time now. 4th largest city with very little McIntosh exposure. As a matter of fact, one of the 2 dealers actually discourages McIntosh speakers for some applications, he believes this helps him sell more of a better known brand with more models to choose from, etc.

[jrsystems]

POWER MONGERS, YOU'RE ALL POWER MONGERS!

2000 watts not being nearly enough. 2400 watts? Nope. 4800 watts, 4 X 1200 watt amps. Even then I should tri-amp -SEVEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED WATTS! This is officially sick. Its watt-crack! I'm trading it all in for Avante-Gardes and a Lamm SET flea watt amp! (NEVER!)

Ugh, I guess I'll keep saving up.

By the way, the 120 watts for the surrounds from the MC206 clearly ain't enough...

[PHC1]

Hansen Audio Prince V2
Anxiously awaiting your findings and review. :thmbsp:

[jrsystems]

I agree but we still love him. Well I guess I'm going to be the black sheep of the family. I bought a pair of speakers yesterday but they weren't the XRT1K.
Before I tell you the brand I will tell you the dumb reason why. It's all JR's fault!
I used to own B&W 802D's and loved the look but the boomy bass was driving me nuts. So I replaced them with PMC IB2's which are wonderful speakers that has a tight bass due to there tranmission line.They also have great synergy with my Mac gear. So far the last 9 months I'm in heaven and then JR goes on a speaker quest. So it gets my wheels turning. I say to myself self you have excellent Mac equipment, excellent cables,excellent plasma and great speakers. Not excellent but great. They are excellent but when compared to the next level there great. You know 402 vs. 501 vs. 1.2KW you get the idea. Morale of the story if you continue to read this forum you will continue to spend money. :yes:
Hansen Audio Prince V2


I am so glad I exerted Masterlu like peer-pressure on you! That made my day.

Seriously, I really loved the Hansen's. The Hansen's and the Sonus Fabers were the two speakers that really intrigued me. I only gave the Hansen's a brief listen, but they were really special. I look forward to a very detailed review. Maybe there are some King's in my distant future...

By the way, for you New Yorkers, Lyric Hi-Fi is doing a terrific Classic Album demo in their glorious back room once a month from now through the summer. Some of the albums they are doing are Sgt Pepper; American Beauty; Aja; and Dark Side. I missed Kind of Blue. I will definately be checking this out. The two speakers they will be featuring are the Nola Grand Refernce and the Hansen King V2's. Among other electronics, they WILL be featuring McIntosh. I am looking forward to checking this out.

http://www.lyricusa.com/expertise/albumnight.htm

[masterlu]

By the way, the 120 watts for the surrounds from the MC206 clearly ain't enough...


Nope, minimum of 500 watts for surrounds. With the right speakers & power, you will be very surprised how much surround content there really is. :yes:

[masterlu]

I am so glad I exerted Masterlu like peer-pressure on you! That made my day.



:lmao:

[exracer]

Hey other JR, I think some pics would be in order....

:worthless

[masterlu]

Hey other JR, I think some pics would be in order....

:worthless

Geez, let the guy get them first. ;)

[howiebrou]

A related question for Howie, Ivan and the power mongers. I seem to be pushing the MC501's to the max quite frequently. I am always watching for the powerguard lights. I got all four flickering last night during the mandatory Master and Commander cannon demo. So for suggestions on which way to go:

1. Shut up and enjoy my already over-the-top 4 bi-amped MC501's
2. Trade the 4 MC501's, fairly even for closeout MC1201's
3. Wait a bit to trade up the 4 501's for a pair of MC1.2KW's
4. Wait a while and way trade up to 4 MC1.2KW's (in other words bi-amping with less power is still better than single amping with more)

I would love your thoughts on this.

Whoa there! I am definitely NOT a power monger in the Ivan, Jerry league. All I have is alonesome Mc2000 with a measly 130 watts! I would defer to them for the definitive answer. :yes:

[jrsystems]

My bad, I meant Jerry (even though he denies it!)

[exracer]

Geez, let the guy get them first. ;)

He already has lots of Mc goodies to see. :thmbsp:

How about a before shot, later an after shot :yes:

[JohnThomas]

Anxiously awaiting your findings and review. :thmbsp:

They should be here in about 10 days. Report to follow.

[masterlu]

He already has lots of Mc goodies to see. :thmbsp:

How about a before shot, later an after shot :yes:


Is that you doing a 1.5 gainer in your Avatar?

[dj_AmTraX]

What is the street price on those?

[masterlu]

What is the street price on those?


$35K a pair.

I smell wood burning...

[2000B King]

There is only ONE power monger ... thats Ivan. :thmbsp:

I am merely an ordinary user :D .. and a true blue McIntosh fan. :music:

One pair 1.2k watts = Good :thmbsp:

Two pairs 1.2k watts = Better :thmbsp::thmbsp:

Three pairs 1.2k watts = BEST :thmbsp::thmbsp::thmbsp:

[exracer]

Is that you doing a 1.5 gainer in your Avatar?

No, happy to say, I rode much better than that! :D

[masterlu]

I am merely an ordinary user :D .. and a true blue McIntosh fan. :music:

POWER MONGER SCALE

100-200 watts = Casual User
200-500 watts = Serious User
500-1000 watts = Very Serious User
1000-2000 watts = Extremely Serious User
2000-4000 watts = Obsessively Serious User
4000 & up = Power Monger! :yes:


You are here: MC1201 (4) = 4800 watts

But don't feel bad, I suffer from PDD.

Power Deficit Disorder: The constant feeling that one posesses inadequate or insufficient power in their Audio System.

[JFR0317]

As requested, I will post both before and after pictures, but since I will be traveling this week, it will be next weekend before I can get the before photos up.

On another note, through a Google search, I found a McIntosh press release for the XCS1K, but still no pictures. I assume/hope it has a horizontal orientation similar to the XCS2K.

Ivan, could you post a picture of what yours looks like in your room, please? I showed my wife the downloaded XCS2K brochure, and she is not too enthusiastic about a floor speaker placement for a center channel. Maybe if she sees what yours looks like, she'll warm up to the idea.

[masterlu]

Short notice, here is a blurry one.

[PHC1]

But don't feel bad, I suffer from PDD.

Power Deficit Disorder: The constant feeling that one posesses inadequate or insufficient power in their Audio System. Viva McViagra. :banana: :D

[JFR0317]

Short notice, here is a blurry one.

Thanks, Ivan. My wife and I have at least progressed to "Well, all right, you do whatever you think best. I just want you to be happy with your system." After 35 years, she knows resistance is futile.:yes:

[howiebrou]

After 35 years, she knows resistance is futile.:yes:

You should write a book.

[masterlu]

Thanks, Ivan. My wife and I have at least progressed to "Well, all right, you do whatever you think best. I just want you to be happy with your system." After 35 years, she knows resistance is futile.:yes:

Well Trained! :whip:

[JFR0317]

Well Trained! :whip:
Actually, I am the well-trained one. She just got new jewelry last week.

And yes, Howie, she should write the book.:yes:

[jrsystems]

Actually, I am the well-trained one. She just got new jewelry last week.



Quid pro quo, it's the only way to go. I had to install a chandellier and a faux tin ceiling to get my speakers.

[JFR0317]

My dealer placed the order with McIntosh this morning, and they told him that McIntosh is about to start a new production run of XRT1K's this week, and mine will be in it. Estimated time of delivery is around mid-March. Let's see how patient I can be for three weeks.

[2000B King]

Actually, I am the well-trained one. She just got new jewelry last week.

And yes, Howie, she should write the book.:yes:

I guess most of us are well trained ! At least, I have been for the last 16 years !!!:D:D:D

But then, looking back, there are nice things to it too !!! :yes:

[jrsystems]

Like what?!?

[2000B King]

Like what?!?

Warmth, Love, Family & A Home ..... :thmbsp:

The "so-so" = Nag, Nag and MORE Nagging .... :nono:

The BAD = Questions, Questions and MORE Questions ... "How come you are STILL changing your gears when I clearly remembered you told me the last time was going to be "the LAST time ever" - that would have the BEST McIntosh system you ever wanted. Now pray tell me what happened ???"

Answer? Well, I made a "judgmental mistake! I did not know the models had been somehow replaced!" :D :D :D

To be fair, buy her something ... and then buy myself something !!! Win-Win situation .... :thmbsp:

So far, so good .......

[jrsystems]

Warmth, Love, Family & A Home ..... :thmbsp:

The "so-so" = Nag, Nag and MORE Nagging .... :nono:

The BAD = Questions, Questions and MORE Questions ... "How come you are STILL changing your gears when I clearly remembered you told me the last time was going to be "the LAST time ever" - that would have the BEST McIntosh system you ever wanted. Now pray tell me what happened ???"

Answer? Well, I made a "judgmental mistake! I did not know the models had been somehow replaced!" :D :D :D

To be fair, buy her something ... and then buy myself something !!! Win-Win situation .... :thmbsp:

So far, so good .......

Yeah those things are nice...I guess!

I learned NEVER to say that anything is the last one I'll buy.

Quid pro quo, exactly!

[JFR0317]

Update - the XRT1K's are finally arriving this Friday, along with an XR27 and an MC501 for the center (XCS1K wouldn't fit in the space in the cabinet over the TV, and there was no room to put one on the floor in front and still have room to walk around the coffee table). My dealer and two of his guys will be personally delivering everything from Fort Worth to Houston via their largest company truck, so I won't have to sit in agony wondering what a regular delivery company is going to do to the new arrivals.

The six (!) week wait has been tough, but I've managed to make the best of it by adding two dedicated 20 amp circuits to go along with the two 15 amp ones I already had, as well as getting two RGPC 1200's to supplement the existing 600's. I'm also getting an RGPC Pole Pig to pair with another of my existing 600's for the TV, preamps, and source components.

This time I really will try to post some pictures, most likely on Saturday morning, since I am planning on being fully immersed with the system on Friday evening.:banana:

[masterlu]

Congrat's, thats a lot of serious toys to set up!

Enjoy! :thmbsp:

[JFR0317]

Thanks, Ivan. I've got the old speakers out of the room, the existing components rearranged, and all of the interconnecting wiring already done, but there's still a lot of work left when the new stuff arrives, not the least of which are the various settings, adjustments, positioning, etc. that need to be done.

I can hardly wait!:yes:

[masterlu]

Your in the big league now my friend. Just remember we're all here to help you, should you need any. :yes:

[JFR0317]

...Just remember we're all here to help you, should you need any. :yes:
Oh, I'm sure I will. Thanks in advance.

[PHC1]

Congrats on your new toys John! :thmbsp: Should be an awesome upgrade. :yes:

[JFR0317]

Congrats on your new toys John! :thmbsp: Should be an awesome upgrade. :yes:
Thanks, Serge. I really appreciate all the advice, perspectives, etc., from you, Ivan, jrsystems, and many others that went in to my decision-making process. This is a great forum, and you guys are the greatest.:yes:

[masterlu]

Judging by your growing gear list, it may be time for your 2nd Inoculation shot.

You did get your first one right? :confused:

[JFR0317]

Judging by your growing gear list, it may be time for your 2nd Inoculation shot.

You did get your first one right? :confused:
Yeah, I got it at the same time I got the inoculation against car lust (see previous threads mentioning BMW X5 4.8 Sport Package and Porsche 911 C2S).:banana:

[jrsystems]

So psyched for you John. Interestingly, we have very similar systems. Give it some time to really settle in. I'm almost two months in and they are really starting to sing.

Enjoy!

[JFR0317]

So psyched for you John. Interestingly, we have very similar systems. Give it some time to really settle in. I'm almost two months in and they are really starting to sing.

Enjoy!
Thanks, jrsystems. I'm really glad to hear that. I can't wait for mine to start singing.

By the way, how are your surround speakers working out now? I currently have B&W Nautilus SCM-1's for side surrounds and only have room for something similar in size such as the McIntosh XLS320. I will have any surround speakers set up as "Small" in the MX135, with lower frequencies directed to my Velodyne DD-18 for movies and multi-channel audio. Any thoughts on the XLS320's for such an application?

[jrsystems]

The surrounds are definately warming up too. However I think they are underpowered. Lately, I've been listening mostly to two channel.

I am questioning my bi-amp dedication. With 4 MC501's on the XRT1K's, a MC401 bi-amping the center XCS320 and 2 channels of a MC206 powering (underpowering) the surround XLS320's, I don't think I've got a great balance. I have mentioned this here before, but I sure could use some more feedback.

I will not add 4 MC1.2KW's to bi-amp the XRT1K's and use 3 of the 501's for center and surrounds (or all four 501's and bi-amp the center.) It sounds great, but unless someone wants to trade an MC402 for 4 MC1.2KW's I don't think its going to happen!

But I might be able to swing trading up to two MC1.2KW's and keeping three MC501's for my center and surrounds. I know this would be optimum for surround, but would two MC1.2KW's sound better than 4 MC501's? Please note that I have not seen a powerguard light since I switched to the 4 ohm taps over a month ago (except for the Master and Commander demos!)

And would this be better than that nice turntable I've been following and some power conditioners...or a C1000T...or a nice big front screen projector...AHHHHHH!

[JFR0317]

Look at this way - that's part of the fun of it. There's always something more to upgrade.

As for how two MC1.2KW's would do with your XRT1K's, the demo I got at the House of Music in San Francisco several weeks ago had MC1.2KW's driving the XRT1K's in a rather large room, and it sounded wonderful to me. My room is only about 12' x 15', so I'm hopeful that the 501's will do the job there at least for a while. Of course, I already know what advice we're going to get from several folks here at AK, but I definitely do not have room for MC2KW's.:D

[JohnThomas]

Your in the big league now my friend. Just remember we're all here to help you, should you need any. :yes:

Coach put me in. I want to be in the big leagues too. :ntwrthy:

[masterlu]

Coach put me in. I want to be in the big leagues too. :ntwrthy:

You're in, see the Pit Boss for your Chips. :thmbsp:

[JFR0317]

Speakers, amp, VP1000, RGPC 1200's, Pole Pig, Substations are in - off to start listening, tweaking, listening, etc. Pictures tomorrow.

First impressions - awesome!:banana::banana::banana:

[masterlu]

Speakers, amp, VP1000, RGPC 1200's, Pole Pig, Substations are in - off to start listening, tweaking, listening, etc. Pictures tomorrow.

First impressions - awesome!:banana::banana::banana:


They are a thing of beauty. Play them like you stole 'em! :music:

[cornfeded]

The surrounds are definately warming up too. However I think they are underpowered. Lately, I've been listening mostly to two channel.

I am questioning my bi-amp dedication. With 4 MC501's on the XRT1K's, a MC401 bi-amping the center XCS320 and 2 channels of a MC206 powering (underpowering) the surround XLS320's, I don't think I've got a great balance. I have mentioned this here before, but I sure could use some more feedback.

I will not add 4 MC1.2KW's to bi-amp the XRT1K's and use 3 of the 501's for center and surrounds (or all four 501's and bi-amp the center.) It sounds great, but unless someone wants to trade an MC402 for 4 MC1.2KW's I don't think its going to happen!

But I might be able to swing trading up to two MC1.2KW's and keeping three MC501's for my center and surrounds. I know this would be optimum for surround, but would two MC1.2KW's sound better than 4 MC501's? Please note that I have not seen a powerguard light since I switched to the 4 ohm taps over a month ago (except for the Master and Commander demos!)

And would this be better than that nice turntable I've been following and some power conditioners...or a C1000T...or a nice big front screen projector...AHHHHHH!

I had the MC402 hooked up to the XCS350s as my surrounds and the combo just did not cut it with my 1201s and XRT28s.

I replaced the MC402 and XCS350s with 1201s and XRT27s and the system just plain sings. Now I have 5 x 1201s, 2 x XRT28s, and 3 x XRT27s.

I would guess you would be best off if you went with 5 x 501s and 3 x XRT27s. Plenty of power but a better speaker match with your XRT1Ks!

Can't hurt to throw a sub in there also!

[masterlu]

Your getting very serious there Cornfeded, my Compliments! :thmbsp:

[JFR0317]

Here is the first photo of the new stuff - still have to dress/hide cables, etc.

[vintage_tube]

Here is the first photo of the new stuff - still have to dress/hide cables, etc.

A very nice & clean looking setup John.

Congrats:thmbsp::thmbsp:

[masterlu]

Here is the first photo of the new stuff - still have to dress/hide cables, etc.

Looking Real Good John. :yes:

[JFR0317]

Thanks, guys. In case you were wondering, the third MC501 is behind the XR27 center channel speakers (with the meter illumination switched off).

Surround speakers are still B&W Nautilus SCM-1 for the side surrounds and oldie but goodie B&W SCM-8 dipoles for the back surrounds. Plans are to replace with McIntosh. Due to space/placement limitations, it looks like the only Mac speakers that will fit in the side surround spots are the XLS320's. For the backs, I'm considering the XCS350's mounted horizontally.

OK, off to do some dialing in - will report back later.:D

[masterlu]

I use the XCS350's in my Bedroom. Very good sounding & heavy suckers.

[ARRAY]

Apparently, it is possible to get a virus over the Internet, even using an Apple Macintosh computer. In this case, the virus is McIntosh addiction.

In other words, I just bought a pair of McIntosh XRT1K's! 10 days to two weeks to get them from McIntosh. :banana::banana:

Hey, way to go! That is a *major* purchase. Did you fork out the full 20 grand for them?

[JFR0317]

Hey, way to go! That is a *major* purchase. Did you fork out the full 20 grand for them?
And then some! List is $35,000 per pair for the XRT1k's. I only can wish that I had gotten them for 20 grand.

I feel very fortunate to have been in a position to afford them. They certainly seem worth every penny right now!:yes:

[mac man]

very nice!!!!!!!!:thmbsp:

[@TOMMY@]

Looks great!!!
Try them without the grills and see what happen.

[masterlu]

One way to hide the cables is to add more Mac gear. It's what I call the wall of Mac theory. :D

[vintage_tube]

[QUOTE=masterlu;1769492]It's what I call the wall of Mac theory. :D/QUOTE]

No doubt about it -- you'd know.:D

[ARRAY]

And then some! List is $35,000 per pair for the XRT1k's. I only can wish that I had gotten them for 20 grand.

I feel very fortunate to have been in a position to afford them. They certainly seem worth every penny right now!:yes:

Ah ok, I stand corrected. $35k is no chump change! It's always great to see someone in this forum make a pro-active decision to spend the money on something like that thus fulfilling a dream. You made your dream happen and didn't wait for it to show up in the garbage or at a thriftstore for 1 cent on the dollar. I admire that... Good for you - 3 CHEERS! :banana:

[JFR0317]

Ah ok, I stand corrected. $35k is no chump change! It's always great to see someone in this forum make a pro-active decision to spend the money on something like that thus fulfilling a dream. You made your dream happen and didn't wait for it to show up in the garbage or at a thriftstore for 1 cent on the dollar. I admire that... Good for you - 3 CHEERS! :banana:
With the way the Loonie has been doing against the Greenback, I thought maybe $20,000 was the new Canadian price.:D

[WireHouse]

One way to hide the cables is to add more Mac gear. It's what I call the wall of Mac theory. :D

these are my thoughts exactly, well its what I have been telling my wife lately :D

Congrats, jfr !!!

[jrsystems]

Here is the first photo of the new stuff - still have to dress/hide cables, etc.

Terrific set-up John! Take the grills off and let them run a few days. They just get better and better.

I'm traveling (again) and miss my Big Macs! ...(and, yes, I miss my family too!)

[JFR0317]

Well, last night I had a chance to crank things up a bit on the system, listening to a variety of material from my MS750 in two channel through the C2300, and then to some SACD multi-channel through the MVP871 and MX135. The two channel was absolutely wonderful, and the 501's playing through the 4 ohm taps showed no signs of struggling at all with the XRT1K's. I finally put in some ear plugs and starting turning up the C2300 to see if I could get the Power Guard indicators to flash. They finally just came on for a quick flash on a few peaks with the C2300 level at 82! This was far louder than I would ever listen to anything, but the XRT1K's showed no signs of strain, just playing clear, loud music. My room is 13'-4" x 14'10", with the seating running along the 14'10" side, pulled out about two feet from the wall.

With the SACD's, the XRT1K's and the XR27 acquitted themselves well, but at higher levels, the B&W Nautilus SCM-1's started to run out of gas, and the Power Guard lights flashed periodically on the MC207. Things were fine at my more usual listening levels, but this is now the weak link in my system.

Fortunately, I listen to 90% of my music in two channel, and mostly use the multi-channel stuff for movies. I watched some battle scenes from Gladiator, with the sound set to DTS ES 6.1, and everything sounded great, even at pretty high levels. The XR27 was particularly amazing, with great dialog clarity. It and the MC501 driving it are a huge upgrade over my former B&W Nautilus HTM-1 driven by the MC207.

By the way, thanks again to everyone for the compliments on the new stuff.:D

[masterlu]

Ah, the old weak link; don't you just hate that.

Glad everything is running well. :yes:

[JFR0317]

Ah, the old weak link; don't you just hate that....
Yes, but I'm sure McIntosh and my dealer just love it.:banana:

[JohnThomas]

Yes, but I'm sure McIntosh and my dealer just love it.:banana:

They will be loving you more in a couple of weeks when then those beautiful blood sucking XRT1K tell you to get off the couch and feed me some MC 1.2Kw for lunch. :yes:

[JFR0317]

They will be loving you more in a couple of weeks when then those beautiful blood sucking XRT1K tell you to get off the couch and feed me some MC 1.2Kw for lunch. :yes:
You know, I'm sure you're right about the MC1.2KW's, but one reason (other than having to answer to my wife) that the MC501's may stay awhile is due to the electrical upgrades I made. I had two dedicated 240v, 20 amp circuits run to the room and installed an RGPC 240v Substation on each circuit. I also added an RGPC 1200C downstream of each Substation. I was watching the 501 meters last night, and they would occasionally veer over into the 1000+ area, but with no sign of a Power Guard light and no signs of audible distress, just a beautiful, open sound. I have seen previous posts by Ivan, Ron-C, and others touting the benefits of an abundance of clean electric power, and the amp's ability to take advantage of it, and I am now a believer.:yes:

[masterlu]

Amen +1

[EXTREME5]

Congratulations John on a great system. I haven't been around in awhile and thought I'd check in tonight and see what has been going on. WOW!! People have been busy. John, it looks like Typhoid McMary (Ivan) has infected you as he did me. I'm just now getting used to dealing with the sickness. Discovery of "weak links" may be your down fall.It was mine. Again, Congratulations!!!!!:tresbon::music:

[masterlu]

Congratulations John on a great system. I haven't been around in awhile and thought I'd check in tonight and see what has been going on. WOW!! People have been busy. John, it looks like Typhoid McMary (Ivan) has infected you as he did me. I'm just now getting used to dealing with the sickness. Discovery of "weak links" may be your down fall.It was mine. Again, Congratulations!!!!!:tresbon::music:

Miles, long time no hear. How be your System?

Any upgrades? :naughty:

[JFR0317]

Congratulations John on a great system. I haven't been around in awhile and thought I'd check in tonight and see what has been going on. WOW!! People have been busy. John, it looks like Typhoid McMary (Ivan) has infected you as he did me. I'm just now getting used to dealing with the sickness. Discovery of "weak links" may be your down fall.It was mine. Again, Congratulations!!!!!:tresbon::music:
Thanks! So far, it looks like your infection became much more serious than mine much more quickly.:D

Where in Central Texas are you?

[strum]

Companion to the XRT1K's, soon to be released (sometime this year perhaps). Retail rumored to be $8K.

Ivan, they are shipping the new XCS1K center channel speaker now. I have received mine, but it will be a few weeks before I have a chance to set it up.
just for the record, it is another two person set up............

I am so happy with just one pair of mc1.2kw . I can only afford to bi-wire, maybe one day I will have some extra ice cream money for the bi-amping:yes:
I look forward to reading all the feedback on the mc2301 amps.
Y'all take care

Randy

[strum]

Apparently, it is possible to get a virus over the Internet, even using an Apple Macintosh computer. In this case, the virus is McIntosh addiction.

In other words, I just bought a pair of McIntosh XRT1K's! 10 days to two weeks to get them from McIntosh. :banana::banana:

Your productivity will drop sharply once the new system is set up.:D
These are the first speakers I have ever been completely satisfied with.
Enjoy!

[JFR0317]

Ivan, they are shipping the new XCS1K center channel speaker now. I have received mine, but it will be a few weeks before I have a chance to set it up.
just for the record, it is another two person set up............

I am so happy with just one pair of mc1.2kw . I can only afford to bi-wire, maybe one day I will have some extra ice cram money for the bi-amping:yes:
I look forward to reading all the feedback on the mc2301 amps.
Y'all take care

Randy
I wish I had room for the XCS1K, although I'm guessing it was more than $8K.

[masterlu]

I wish I had room for the XCS1K, although I'm guessing it was more than $8K.

Just a litttle... :rolleyes:

[JFR0317]

Just a litttle... :rolleyes:
Right - as in plus 110%!

[strum]

One XCS1K and a 3rd MC1.2KW pretty much wipes out bi-amping for awhile.
The system will always be a work in progress, that is part of the fun. :yes:

[EXTREME5]

Miles, long time no hear. How be your System?

Any upgrades? :naughty:

Hi Ivan and all, My attention focus and time have been devoted elsewhere. Hopefully I'm back. I have no new up grades on my system. I did have an architect drawup plans to add a home theater, but due to some building restrictions beyond my control, I cannot expand the footprint on my house. Frustrating!!!! I'm looking into changing my existing floor plan to accomodate. It will never work as well, but it will be more convienent as far as shelving and future upgrades and additions. (Upgrades & Additions Ugh!!! I thought I was finished.) John, you will never be finished as long as Mcintosh produces new equipment,electronic heroine. John, I live at Lake Mcqueeney(near New Braunfels).

[JFR0317]

John, I live at Lake Mcqueeney(near New Braunfels).
That's a very nice area.:yes:

[JFR0317]

Here's a photo my dealer just sent me, taken just after we had fired up the system with the new additions.

[Mack]

Here's a photo my dealer just sent me, taken just after we had fired up the system with the new additions.

You are blocking the view of the equipment! :D

[2000B King]

Here's a photo my dealer just sent me, taken just after we had fired up the system with the new additions.

Whoa! So Handsome ...... :thmbsp:

The McGears I mean ....... :D

Cheers !! :banana: