Should I Swap My Accuphase for McIntosh?
 

I recently purchased an Accuphase E-650, and I absolutely love the sound that it creates. I live the warmth. However, I also just purchased a pair of Sonus Faber Stradivari, and I think they could use more power. I find myself at the red line of the meters more often than not. So I am considering swapping the E-650 for a pair of McIntosh MC601s or 611s....and either a C52 or C47 preamp. I think a 2600 would create too much warmth. I have previously owned an MC452 and C2600....and C47 before that?
Am I crazy in considering this or does it makes sense?

Lars you can not go wrong with the MC601's or Mc611's with the Strads. .

This is all your fault David [emoji23]

What about an accuphase for a bigger accuphase (e.g., the a75 Ivan is selling). Truly, the sky is the limit. That said, the e650 is likely not enough juice for the strads.

Lars.......A C52 and a pair of MC2301's in front of those Strads will bring home the gold. . :yahoo:

I have not had the privilege of hearing the MC2301s, and I am afraid to. They are definitely one of the more popular amplifiers for the Strads.

What were you seeking when you moved to Accuphase? Do you like the sound and just need more power? Maybe a P-4500 or an A-75

As I already previously mentioned in another thread, to my ears the Gold, no make that "Platinum", was Stradivari with a neutral and ballsy amps. Of course much depends on your personal taste and preference as well as room acoustics. Take that with a grain of salt and let your own ears decide.

Here is just an example of the Strads with Pass Labs amps. The room acoustics of the first room are terrible (and that was the point of the video) but you can hear how much resolution and finely detailed nuances the Pass Labs are pulling from the Strads. Because the Strads are a bit darker sounding speakers, a neutral sounding amp typically hits the sweet spot. I've heard the Strads with Krell, Bryston and a few others. McIntosh will be similar but Pass Labs will typically give you more goosebumps from the extra resolution and finesse they can bring to the equation if the overall system and room allow for it.

https://youtu.be/6Up0JH_D6-Q

My say is dedicating a mono to each speaker will always prevail especially at 600 watts per assuming your room factor is not an issue.