• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

The second MC275 is here

T-3G

T-3G

Active Member
So, after thinking about whether to add another MC275 or replace it with one of the McIntosh solid state amplifiers (MC252/MC402), I've decided to get another MC275.

I went to the local Magnolia and auditioned the MC402 along with the MC275. I listened to the MC275/C2300/Sonus faber Elipsa which is exactly what I have at home to first to calibrate my ear. I then had the sales person switch to the MC402. The MC402 was more revealing, sophisticated, sharper, colder, metallic, mechanical, and analytical, than the MC275. The MC275, on the other hand, was warmer, sweeter, more colorful, organic, and more natural. The sound of violin on the MC402 was what pushed me to the MC275 - it was ear-piercing at higher volume. I never get that from the MC275. Since I listen to classical music primarily, this was an important deciding factor. I think I'd prefer the MC402 for rock, pop, or jazz music, however. But then again, if I listen to those genre of music, I probably would have chosen a different pair of speakers :D

So I took another MC275 home, and hooked it up to the C2300/Sonus faber Elipsa. Both MC275's are now running in mono/parallel mode. To my surprise, they do actually sound better, and you can really hear it. In addition to twice the tube power @ 150w/ch, you gain more transparency, more pronounced bass, and headroom. It's like switching from a 6 cylinder engine to an 8 cylinder engine. You may be going at the same speed, but it's doing it at more ease. The background sounds darker, too. I didn't lose anything, but gained everything! (well, except my wallet is somewhat lighter now).

Anyways, if you are an owner of the MC275, adding another one is definitely a good way to improve the overall headroom of your audio system. :thmbsp:

2L.jpg
 
Register to hide this ad
Sweet! When I auditioned 402/275 + c2300 with my Auditors, I found the 275 running out of steam when I would push the system far too often. I decided on the 402. 402 wAs effortless and controls my speakers with authority. However, my system did sound amazing with that golden glow , midband warmth provided by the 275. Vocals were to die for. I remember thinking if my budget allowed, a pair of 275s would have beeen perfect. Enjoy your 275s.
 
Thanks, guys! :)

j3brow, yes, a pair of MC275 is a wonderful thing. I didn't expect to hear much difference, but the difference is quite amazing.

I took some pictures of my gears at night. McIntosh gears are just beautiful to look at!

b0185744_1819566.jpg


b0185744_18433546.jpg
 
wow...thats my kind of system...you made a wise choice!! Me on the other hand, always with vintage efficient speakers, never came close to making anything run out of steam!:-)
 
How does it compare to your SACD Classical system now?

I seem to recall you writing that you preferred to listen to Classical more on your other system.

What speakers would you get if you listened to more Jazz and Rock? Have you ever tried Harbeth?
 
EasyRiderNYC said:
How does it compare to your SACD Classical system now?

I seem to recall you writing that you preferred to listen to Classical more on your other system.

What speakers would you get if you listened to more Jazz and Rock? Have you ever tried Harbeth?
Click to expand...

Hey there,

My other system is dedicated for listening to classical music, particularly large symphonic orchestra, in multichannel. It doesn't matter how much money you throw at your 2 channel system, it can NEVER reproduce the concert hall acoustics the way the SACD multichannel system can. However, for everything else, my McIntosh/Sonus faber system wins hands down, mainly because it costs more than 3X what I invested in the multichannel system :)

I had a friend over yesterday to audition both systems, and he completely agrees that large symphonic music are definately way better on my multichannel. It's the fundamental limitation on the traditional 2 channel format - you just can't reproduce the concert hall acoustics very well, period. Large symphony is important to me, hence I maintain two systems. I may consolidate the two into one in the future, though, when I move and have a larger dedicated room. Currently, I maintain my 2 channel in my living room and multichannel in one of the larger bedrooms. Wife complains :D
 
Please explain

I hate to ask a stupid question but please explain how to run two of these amps. Is it one per speaker or do they both send power to each speaker. Is this what is referred to as bridged? Thanks
 
Try running the amps bridged if you can. I did this with my 2102's, and found that they opened up even further in terms of detail and imaging. Not sure if you can do it with 275's, but if you can, give it a try.
 
Hi
It can't be done. Only in mono parallel.

T-3G.....
It's sure looks nice with two MC275, dosen't it.:thmbsp:

Thanks
 
Sweet! Every once in awhile I think about getting a tube setup for a 2nd system. Those pics and description may push me over the edge. :yes:
 
Happy Days are Here!

Congratulations on your second MC 275 tube amp. The night pictures look amazing and the sound must be as good as it gets! Enjoy the music.

I can only say "you have been seduced by the tubes"

Go Mac.
 
Seeing your system makes me regrett my MA2275 purchase, although it fit my needs at the time.
Looks alone, on the dual MC 275 tube amps hold my interest. Balanced and impressive.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom