Newbie Needs Your Help

[McNewbie61]

So I am getting back into the world of high-end audio/video. Setting up a room in a home I'm moving into next month. Will double as HT and 2 channel listening room.

Here's what I know I will have: a 5.1 setup. A Sony 75" XBR and an OPPO 205 and Sonus Faber Olympica for 2 channel and front L/R, a SF Center and two in-ceiling speakers (maybe B&W)

My initial thinking was an MX-160 and an MC207.

I am now questioning if this is the right way to go. I'm told by an advisor that the Olympica's could be bi-amped from the 207 using the 2 free channels for 2 channel listening. But I'm thinking that maybe I am wasting $ on the MX160 since I won't be 7 channel +, won't utilize Atmos, etc.

Another thought is to go with an MC452 to drive SF's and an MC303 to drive Center/rears and maybe a Mx151 (and go direct video to TV for 4k) or an MX-122 to give me the 4k.

Any input on what to do?

[jdandy]

McNewbie61.......Welcome to Audio Aficionado.

[SuperD]

Mcnewbie,
I have been a McIntosh fan from the beginning but I feel I need to warn you about purchasing older Mac gear. IMO, the MX-150/151 have been forgotten by Mcintosh. No new firmware updates and the ones they did put out usually caused more harm than good. The MX-160 has no Pure Stereo option, so if you plan on using it as your pre, expect to have all the digital filters in play ie RPerfect which IMO is not ideal. I had my Mx-150 for 5 years until I turned it on and it sizzled and smoked. $3000 to fix it and they sell used for about the same price. I replaced it with a Bryston SSP3 from Ivan that I should receive in a few days. I like it because it has everything I want but nothing i don't need. Like you, I have a 5.2 system and have no need for Atmos or DTS:X at this time and with the OPPO, you can run 2 HDMI if 3D interests you. The MC303 is a beast and I highly recommend it. Good luck and welcome back to the hobby/addiction.

[Masterlu]

Mcnewbie... Welcome to AA!

[Vince11281]

That MC452 is some amp... would sound incredible with the Sonus Fabers!

[McNewbie61]

Originally Posted by Vince11281

That MC452 is some amp... would sound incredible with the Sonus Fabers!

Thank you all for the greetings as well as your input. I've decided on the MX160 with the MC452 and MC303. Does anyone on this board have that setup? I'd be interested in connecting

John

[damacman]

Wow - that's a heck of a start in the world of McIntosh. The MX160 is really so new (and so very expensive) I've not seen much feedback from owners. The amps you've chosen are both revered, especially the MC452. Overall, I imagine you'll be quite happy once the system is set up and calibrated.

I'm a semi-early Atmos adopter myself. Since your MX160 supports it, you really should give thought to a 5.1.4 variation. Properly set up, an Atmos system built around the gear you've chosen will transport you into the film in a way you simply cannot imagine.

Have fun!

[thxthx]

I love my MC207 for home theatre but for 2 channel listening I am seeking more power (MC601's one day) to feed the 802's. I am also loving my MX121 which has pure audio pass through and would easily handle your requirements. Personally I'd like to upgrade to Dolby Atmos after hearing it at my mates place having just installed his system for him.

[damacman]

It's awesome isn't it?

[SuperD]

Originally Posted by McNewbie61

Thank you all for the greetings as well as your input. I've decided on the MX160 with the MC452 and MC303. Does anyone on this board have that setup? I'd be interested in connecting

John

I had a similar setup for 5 years except I had the mx150 and 601's with the 303. It is an awesome combo! Good choice with the 160, IMO it has everything it needs to be relevant for a long time. Congrats!