Amp/Preamp Asylum Looking for a new Amp or Preamp? If you're after tubes, post over here. |
|
In Reply to: REVIEW: McIntosh MC402 Amplifier (SS) posted by Karl W. on November 5, 2005 at 06:48:57:
Your review is right on target, IMO.
I have struggled how to describe the sound of MC402, I think you have nailed it. Congratulations.I would like to add two comments:
The "first" watt sounds just wonderful, contrary to most transistor powerhouses.
I usually listen between 0.4 W and 4 Watts. I did NOT choose the MC 402 because of its power output, I bought it based on how musical it sounded on my system (by the way, a great match with Gallo Ref. 3 speakers).When I first connected it to my system, a new CD had arrived on the mail: Marc Johnsons's Shades of Jade on ECM (MJ the bassist, not the singer).
Anyway, I thought: this must be the best jazz CD of 2005.
I played the same CD on and off for the next 3 days.
During the weekend I received "Bob Brookmeyer and Friends", a Sony 8.99 CD.
All of a sudden it became the latest "record of the year",I kept listening to that same CD for several days (specially the ballads).
Then I re-connected my previous amp and realized the MC402 had renewed my enthusiasm for the music I love.
It is without a doubt the most musical SS power amp I have heard.
I have not heard them all BUT I have auditioned most of the usual benchmarks under 10K: Krell, Mark levinsosn, McCormack, Ayre, Classé, Bryston, Gamut, et al.
Carlos
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:
Follow Ups
- I own one and agree 100% - Carlos 11:50:28 11/11/05 (0)