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Thread: MA-252 inbound
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December 20, 2019, 01:02 PM #1
MA-252 inbound
So I came across a deal that was worth giving one of these a try. My amazing wife said to buy it and keep my other equipment. She is great, I got to say! I may sell some of the other gear depending on how this works out down the road anyway.
I really wanted to try one of these (McIntosh on the brain growing up on the South Side of Binghamton, shadow of the factory and all). I am so intrigued by the hybrid design. This definitely has the power and features that I need.
Anyway, this older gentleman (well older then me ) has one that is exactly one month old. He said it has way too much power for his 100 dB speakers and he is going back to a lower powered amp. We communicated back and forth several times and I asked him if I could make an offer. I offered him much lower than he originally asked for but an amount that Cheryal would be happier with. He decided to take it so, dam, McIntosh inbound!
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 20, 2019, 01:09 PM #2
Re: MC-252 inbound
Thanks Joe... (for correcting my typo)
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 20, 2019, 01:17 PM #3
- Join Date
- Oct 2013
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- Sacramento
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- 1,129
Re: MC-252 inbound
Congratulations. Hope it is everything (and more) that you were expecting.
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December 20, 2019, 01:23 PM #4
Re: MC-252 inbound
Randy.......Congratulations on a great score. I am confident the MA252 will impress you. I own the very first hybrid integrated amplifier McIntosh ever made, the MA230. In fact it is the very first integrated amplifier McIntosh manufactured. It is a solid state preamp and 30 watt per channel tube power amplifier on the same chassis. The MA230 is 54 years old and still sounds excellent. The MA252 is the opposite of my MA230, yours being a tube preamplifier and solid state power amplifier on a single chassis, but I have no doubt that hybrid design combination will deliver a fabulous performance. I'll be watching for your review.
Dan
STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax, Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario
LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable, Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113
VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A
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December 20, 2019, 01:25 PM #5
Re: MC-252 inbound
I think it will be good, but we will see. Diz, Dan, and others, thank you for your input earlier. Always appreciated!
The bottom line is I do not have to get rid of my other gear immediately, so if it does not do what I need no harm no foul.McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 20, 2019, 01:31 PM #6
Re: MC-252 inbound
Randy, congrats on the score!
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkSean
Lumin T2
Gryphon Diablo 333
Magico A3 w/ A-Pods
AudioQuest Hurricane HC
Shunyata PS8 & Defender & Cabling
HRS E1
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December 20, 2019, 02:50 PM #7
Re: MC-252 inbound
very nice!! can't wait to hear how sounds in your system and how it compares to the amp8
this will now give you an excuse to head back to "bing" for a factory tour... followed by a burger and craft beer at the galaxy brewery -- i cannot recommend this itinerary more highly!!viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | almarro a318b + air tight atc-5 (phono) | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + diy transport + roon rock
alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii
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December 20, 2019, 03:09 PM #8
Re: MC-252 inbound
I was in Binghamton in August. Unfortunately under difficult circumstances. It was for my dad's passing. I did notice that there was a Speedie festival going on... God I miss Binghamton Speedies... my brother would not stop and let me grab a Speedie sandwich though (I did try to get him to stop) ....
The last time I was actually at the McIntosh factory was back in the late '90s when I was living in Syracuse and a buddy was buying some gear and I drove him down to pick it up.McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 20, 2019, 04:05 PM #9
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congratulations Randy!
That’s one of the amps I’d get, it’s superb. You will absolutely love it.Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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December 20, 2019, 04:25 PM #10
Re: MA-252 inbound
I couldn't resist the deal. It is literally one month old. And since I am keeping my other gear (certainly for now), it allows me a chance to really try it out in my system.
The gentleman and I corresponded back and forth and he seemed to be a real straight shooter. He has already shipped it. Great follow up indeed.McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 20, 2019, 05:17 PM #11
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,067
Re: MA-252 inbound
I'm not surprised from your comments on recent Mac threads, I knew something Mac would eventually come your way, LOL Enjoy!
If I have my models correct, some say the 252 doesn't sound as good as larger integrated from Mac due to not having the output transformers However, I heard one at the show driving JBL L100's, the new version, and I thought it to sound good. I may have it and the 352 mixed up.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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December 20, 2019, 05:30 PM #12
Re: MA-252 inbound
Dam Binghamton boy syndrome . Really looking forward to trying this Amp out .
I honestly do not understand all the technical aspects of power amps and I am not certain about how this technically compares to the technology used in their other products. I do know that they use ThermalTrak Output Transistors in it, similar to what is used by T+A. I do know that these sound very very good .McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 20, 2019, 10:54 PM #13
- Join Date
- Sep 2018
- Location
- CA
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- 118
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congrats Man, you're gonna live it!!
Oh and, welcome to the club!
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December 21, 2019, 12:46 AM #14
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,067
Re: MA-252 inbound
Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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December 21, 2019, 01:11 AM #15
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- Sep 2018
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- CA
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- 118
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December 21, 2019, 01:23 AM #16
Re: MA-252 inbound
McIntosh and British speakers have always been a great combo! I think this amp will work well with my KEFs also .
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 21, 2019, 11:48 AM #17
- Join Date
- Sep 2018
- Location
- CA
- Posts
- 118
Re: MA-252 inbound
I have no doubt you'll be pleased with that combination.
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December 21, 2019, 11:52 AM #18Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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December 21, 2019, 03:12 PM #19
Re: MA-252 inbound
Probably the end of next week, after Christmas . Belated Christmas present.
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 22, 2019, 12:00 AM #20
Re: MA-252 inbound
Man you have been busy building all along in 2019 - good to be happy, why not, right?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk ProSource Analog: Kuzma Stabi R w/4point 11 arm | Kuzma 50 Cartridge
Source Digital: Aurender N10 | Brinkmann Nyquist MK II
Amplification: Dan D’Agostino Momentum HD and M400’s | Boulder 508
Speakers: Wilson Alexias
Cabling: Nordost Leif, Norse, V2 and Odin
Power and Isolation: Audio-Ultra Home & Room Power Foundation Performance Package with StromTank S1000 | HRS
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December 22, 2019, 09:31 AM #21
- Join Date
- Jul 2015
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- Golden, CO
- Posts
- 858
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congrats Randy! Sounds like a great piece. I think the hybrid will give you the best of both worlds - that tube sound and finesse, with the balls and bass control of a solid state power amp.
Please let us know your opinion and use it in good health!
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December 22, 2019, 01:36 PM #22
Re: MA-252 inbound
I am so hoping this does what I want. I really do not need the best of the best, or anything like that. I need something I enjoy. The U-Turn was a good addition not because it is the best sounding, but it does a very nice job and allows me to have fun with vinyl again, and it does sound pretty darn good!
As most of you know, I have been Jonesing for a McIntosh for a while (dam Bingo boy thing... grrrr), but the cost has been an issue many times, not totally thrilled with the design/shape of many of the used older pieces I see, and really was hoping to find something without their built in DAC. I simply feel that Mc does not offer a DAC as good as what I already have and therefore would be a waste.
I know that the MA252 in not a high end piece, but I also know the benefits of a tube pre with a SS amp and I know the output transistors being used are top notch (same as in the T+A). Granted it does not have a ton of extra features but when I compare to higher model:
* Higher model has more power, but I know from my use that 100 WPC of Mc power is way more than enough.
* 5 band eq versus tones controls... I don't use tone controls so who cares ...
* Only 1 xlr, 2 rca, and MM inputs... versus two more on higher model... well I like MM cartridges and with my current table I do not envision going into MC. I also have the SimAudio for now if I do. The inputs cover all the basis for me, MM, check, Balanced from DAC, check, two more inputs for Tuner and SACD, check, even though I never spin a disk it is good to have the option just in case.
* Subwoofer output, NICE, since I do not current have one. Higher model have two... one is fine because I have no place to put a second sub anyway and the ELAC works really good in its corner .
* Blue meters, that would be cool, but not a reason to spend thousands more ...
The MA252 checks all the boxes, and coming across a one month old one that I was able to get an amazing deal on really made it a no brainer to me. If I decide not to keep both setups I believe it will be very easy to get my money out, no matter which way I decide...McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 22, 2019, 03:51 PM #23
- Join Date
- May 2017
- Location
- Hudson Valley, NY
- Posts
- 154
Re: MA-252 inbound
Many, many hours of listening pleasure with your new amp Randy.
AKA J2Ordan
McIntosh/Legacy/VPI/Bricasti/DIYCabling
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December 22, 2019, 04:08 PM #24
Re: MA-252 inbound
The MA252 is a superb integrated. I’m sure you’ll sell everything else in no time, if you’re smart.
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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December 22, 2019, 04:24 PM #25
Re: MA-252 inbound
Hehe, we will see how it all works out. As you know the Stage 2 is fantastic, the T+A Amp is also amazing. I am not sure the rest of my system allows me to truly appreciates the subtleties of this preamp and amp. I just think a more simplified approach may be better for me as Cheryal and I start zeroing in on retirement!
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 27, 2019, 09:59 PM #26
Re: MA-252 inbound
It's here, its here!
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 27, 2019, 10:12 PM #27
Re: MA-252 inbound
OMG!
Soooooooooooooooo?Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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December 27, 2019, 10:16 PM #28
- Join Date
- Sep 2018
- Location
- CA
- Posts
- 118
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December 28, 2019, 09:33 AM #29
Re: MA-252 inbound
Well I did a massive re-wire, re-setup of the system. Pain in the you know what.... Listened for a few hours last night. I can say I really like the look and feel of the unit. The look and feel factor along with the warm and fuzzy factor seem like it is a big thumbs up.
The sound factor I would say is too early to tell, but I also feel it sounds real good. Maybe my ears are not that discriminating any more but I don't really hear much of a difference. It may be that my setup, speakers, room, etc., is just not refined enough to appreciate the subtle differences in my other gear. The McIntosh does use the same output transistors as the T+A, so I did not expect a huge performance gap.
So far I am enjoying it but will take a few days to really make sure.McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 28, 2019, 09:45 AM #30
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congratulations Randy.
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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December 28, 2019, 09:47 AM #31
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congrats Randy. She’s a beauty.
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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December 28, 2019, 11:10 AM #32
- Join Date
- Feb 2019
- Location
- Southeast Iowa
- Posts
- 992
Re: MA-252 inbound
Randy, if it sounds good to you...it is good! And that's all that matters. I happen to like the retro looks of Mc stuff. I've only auditioned one Mc integrated amp and I thought it sounded great. Can't recall the model but it wasn't the MA 252. It didn't have the exposed tubes and I think it was all SS. Perhaps an MA 8000? Anyway, I'd be proud to own a Mc. As a side, I also auditioned an ARC VSi75 (with the KT 150 power tubes, not the KT 120s) that same day and it sounded superb. But, going strictly on reviews and forum comments, the MA 252 sounds like a great integrated. Congrats on a great score!
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December 28, 2019, 12:13 PM #33
Re: MA-252 inbound
Thank you everyone. So far I am really loving the operation of this integrated amp. Its simplistic approach is exactly what I like, but it does have enough fun stuff, such as the green glow from the tubes and re-naming the inputs... they now display; Digital, Vinyl, CD/SACD, and Tuner!
I really like the look and feel of the unit, and of course the nice large McIntosh on the front (sorry, my Binghamton boy coming through , I loved seeing 2 Chamber St, Binghamton, NY on the box).
A subwoofer output was also critical for me.
So far I am enjoying the sound performance of the amp. I am hoping to give it some good solid listening today. With a few hours listening last evening I was impressed. The gentleman that I purchased it from stated that it was probably not broken in yet. I believe he is probably right. So far, the enjoyment factor is extremely high. We will see if that continues...McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 28, 2019, 01:00 PM #34
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congratulations Randy! Enjoy
Avanti Audio
arc sp-11 or ls27 | arc d130 | vpi classic 2 w/periphery ring w/Si3N4 bearing & sapphire thrust plate & 2x jmw 10.5i | phoenix engineering eagle & road runner | ortofon cadenza bronze, miyajima zero mono | sentec eq11 w/ Sylvania 5751 TMBP & CBS 7318 | auditorium a23 | canton ref 9 dc | 2x m&k v125 | oppo bdp-95 | chord qutest | lumin d1 & sbooster | avanti audio vivace cables
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December 28, 2019, 01:12 PM #35
- Join Date
- Sep 2018
- Location
- CA
- Posts
- 118
-
December 28, 2019, 05:17 PM #36
Re: MA-252 inbound
The MA252 definitely sounds different then the W4S/T+A combo, more or less in the subtle things. The W4S/T+A is more detailed, maybe a bit faster and more dynamic. The Mc has a rich inviting vocal range, is very smooth and great control over the bottom end. I attribute most of what I am hearing to a tube versus passive pre.
Both are very good inviting sounding systems. I think if I had a higher level in my other components the advantages to the W4S/T+A combo might very well win out. But at the level I'm at, and comfortable with, the warm fuzzy good feelings I am getting from the McIntosh will probably win out!McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 28, 2019, 07:21 PM #37
Re: MA-252 inbound
Another quick observation; this has got to be the coolest running amplifier I have ever encountered. It has been playing all day, sometimes pushed harder then I normally would. There is virtually no heat near the tubes. I mean I can actually hold my hand on the little tube cages and feel almost nothing. The heat sinks are cooler then the T+A DAC. Pretty amazing actually.
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 28, 2019, 07:34 PM #38
Re: MA-252 inbound
Randy,
The MA252 is one of the handful of McIntosh amps I could easily live with long term. It’s a superb performer. It’s like a comfortable pair of slippers and does so much right. I think it’ll continue to grow on you.Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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December 28, 2019, 08:05 PM #39
Re: MA-252 inbound
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 28, 2019, 10:05 PM #40
- Join Date
- May 2016
- Posts
- 574
-
December 28, 2019, 10:13 PM #41
Re: MA-252 inbound
I truly don't know how to describe that. It seems like the MA252 controls the four bass drivers very well. McIntosh has always seemed to match very well with British speakers in my view! They almost seem like they are made for each other but so did the T+A. German manufactures and McIntosh seem to both work well with British and German speakers .
I know, way too generalized .McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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December 31, 2019, 03:25 PM #42
Re: MA-252 inbound
Congratulations Randy and welcome home
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January 1, 2020, 06:08 PM #43
Re: MA-252 inbound
Thank you sir. I am really enjoying this amplifier!
I am still surprised how cool running this sucker is. I mean running all day and I can place my hands on the tube cages and feel almost no heat. The heat sinks are not even warm... None of the amplifiers I have had run so cool as this McIntosh!McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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January 1, 2020, 06:26 PM #44
- Join Date
- Sep 2018
- Location
- CA
- Posts
- 118
-
January 1, 2020, 06:57 PM #45McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
-
January 11, 2020, 12:34 AM #46
Re: MA-252 inbound
I like the look without the little tube cages... the cages serve no purpose other than looks. It is not like you can get burned from these. I have never seen cooler running tubes. Literally barely warm!
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
-
January 11, 2020, 12:03 PM #47
Re: MA-252 inbound
I have been playing around comparing phone stages. The built in McIntosh is very good but I think the SimAudio is a little better! Since I do not ever spin a silver disk (always rip them) I decided to keep the SimAudio attached instead of the Oppo. I turned off the phone input and renamed the other unbalanced input to Vinyl. A bit of a pain to do but when it is set there is no reason to play further .
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
-
January 11, 2020, 06:28 PM #48
- Join Date
- Feb 2019
- Location
- Southeast Iowa
- Posts
- 992
Re: MA-252 inbound
Randy, it's really been fun reading your posts about your experiences with the MA252. Sounds like a real keeper to me.
Amplifier: Pass Labs INT 250 integrated.
DAC/Streamer: MSB Discrete Dual Power Supply.
Server: Roon Nucleus with lifetime subscription.
Speakers: Harbeth Super HL 5+ 40th Anniversary
Model.
Headphones/Amp: Focal Stellia phones, NAIM Uniti Atom Headphone Edition headphone amp/music player/server/streamer.
Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables,
Mackenzie interconnects.
Speaker Stands: HiFi Man.
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January 11, 2020, 06:33 PM #49
Re: MA-252 inbound
The MA252 sure does make life simple. Great sound just makes it a winner!
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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January 28, 2020, 11:11 AM #50
Re: MA-252 inbound
I agree, the MA252 really makes things easier and it sounds fantastic!
The other night I compared the built in phono stage with the external SimAudio again. Even though the built in is very good the SimAudio is very special. When I tried the McIntosh built in again, after having the SimAudio hooked up for a couple of weeks it sounded rather dry; I wouldn't say lifeless but certainly without that spark that grabs ya. I hooked the SimAudio again and it was amazing how evident the difference was. Dynamic, very alive sounding, open, more depth. I was surprised at how big of a difference I heard actually .
So the McInotsh MA252 with the external SimAudio phono stage is definitely a winner!McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
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After 1 year of tremendous enjoyment with my new gear, I have been so lucky to audition a Gryphon Antileon EVO. Being dazzled by the sheer control through unlimited power and resulting vividness and...
Upgrade on the way...