Downsizing McIntosh

[LewL]

I currently have a McIntosh C2700 with a pair of Mc3500 MkIIs playing through Focal Scala Utopia Evos. My source is mostly streaming through an Esoteric N01-XD and sometimes vinyl. My room is about 17’x35’. The system sounds great, but I would like to reduce the footprint of my equipment. I may also want to add subwoofers (but don’t have the floor space due to the pair of Mc3500s).

Am I crazy to be considering downsizing to a MC462 or an ARC 160S for a power amp or even further reducing the footprint by substituting the C2700 and Mc3500s for a MA12000 or another integrated such as a Pass INT-250, Hegel H600, or Gryphon Diablo? Freeing up some floor space would allow the addition of one or two subs and a JL Audio CR-1 crossover. I listen to a lot of live Grateful Dead and subs definitely allow the achievement of a fuller more realistic sound at lower volumes.

Thanks

[Fbgbill]

Personally if I did that I would have buyers remorse for getting rid of the 3500s.

[Formerly YB-2]

While not as dramatic a downsizing as you are thinking of, I just downsized from a C22/MC275 to an MA8950 and don't feel I've lost a thing. An MA12000 would provide the 'magic of tubes' while maintaining rhe 350wpc for your Utopia speakers. Plus, you might find that the solid-state amp will provide a better "grip" on the low end. I have noticed that to be true with the MA8950 and my notably tube-friendly Devore speakers.

[brownbear]

I don't think you would lose a thing as far as Grateful Dead soundboards go.

[US Blues]

Originally Posted by LewL

I currently have a McIntosh C2700 with a pair of Mc3500 MkIIs playing through Focal Scala Utopia Evos. My source is mostly streaming through an Esoteric N01-XD and sometimes vinyl. My room is about 17’x35’. The system sounds great, but I would like to reduce the footprint of my equipment. I may also want to add subwoofers (but don’t have the floor space due to the pair of Mc3500s).

Am I crazy to be considering downsizing to a MC462 or an ARC 160S for a power amp or even further reducing the footprint by substituting the C2700 and Mc3500s for a MA12000 or another integrated such as a Pass INT-250, Hegel H600, or Gryphon Diablo? Freeing up some floor space would allow the addition of one or two subs and a JL Audio CR-1 crossover. I listen to a lot of live Grateful Dead and subs definitely allow the achievement of a fuller more realistic sound at lower volumes.

Thanks

I use two JL Audio subs to Phil the room.

[audiogear]

Nothing crazy at all! We make changes to experience and to further enjoy the music choices through our ever so evolving systems. Just take a look at AA member systems through the years.

All the options you listed above, IMO, are first rate/top tier pieces which should have no problem driving the Scalas.

By the way, heard from Ivan that JL Audio is expected to announce new subs at CES 2024.

[LewL]

Originally Posted by US Blues

I use two JL Audio subs to Phil the room.

And they say “nothing’s shaking”. 🤣🤣

[Bun E. Carlos]

Originally Posted by LewL

I currently have a McIntosh C2700 with a pair of Mc3500 MkIIs playing through Focal Scala Utopia Evos. My source is mostly streaming through an Esoteric N01-XD and sometimes vinyl. My room is about 17’x35’. The system sounds great, but I would like to reduce the footprint of my equipment. I may also want to add subwoofers (but don’t have the floor space due to the pair of Mc3500s).

Am I crazy to be considering downsizing to a MC462 or an ARC 160S for a power amp or even further reducing the footprint by substituting the C2700 and Mc3500s for a MA12000 or another integrated such as a Pass INT-250, Hegel H600, or Gryphon Diablo? Freeing up some floor space would allow the addition of one or two subs and a JL Audio CR-1 crossover. I listen to a lot of live Grateful Dead and subs definitely allow the achievement of a fuller more realistic sound at lower volumes.

Thanks

Feel free to sell me your 3500’s.

[londonbridge]

Keep your current system and don't look back! If you are moving and no longer have the space then change it up. Your are at the top of the food chain, so enjoy it!

Happy Holidays!!!

[FreddieFerric]

Originally Posted by londonbridge

Keep your current system and don't look back! If you are moving and no longer have the space then change it up. Your are at the top of the food chain, so enjoy it!

Happy Holidays!!!

Yep.