Factors to Consider in Selecting a Tube Amp

[Msegal]

I find that synergy is very important for reaching the goosebump zone. I found that a McIntosh preamp sang better than all other preamps I tried with my Mc275’s. I agree that tubes all around will help to reach the nirvana you seek.
C1100 and mono MC275’s is where I would start. The Audio Research are more expensive and represent the pinnacle of WOM. Whether they are worth the significant up charge depends upon your fiscal priorities.
I have heard BAT in the past and found them very musical. They seem to have a greater online sales presence for their entire line and as such are difficult to find in stores.
There are lots of great options out there as you have indicated. The MC275s and C1100 will get you your McIntosh sound, remain in your price point, give you synergy, enough power for most applications and McIntosh resale, repairability and service.

Just my $.02.

Mike

[The Lost Bears]

Choosing all your electronics by the same company can be an easy way to insure synergy. Mixing and matching can be more difficult.

It can be very difficult to get a real feel for a piece at a dealer. Some dealers are much better than others. But if you are auditioning a preamp, how much are the different speakers or the different front end affecting the sound? Not to mention setup. Some dealers are more concerned with system setup than others. Auditioning pieces between multiple dealers is even more difficult. You will never trully know how something sounds untill you hear it in your room with your speakers.

I would listen to an all ARC, all MAC and all BAT system with as similar speakers as possible. Keep in mind that speakers can have a huge impact on the sound. Choose the house sound that you like best and work from there.

I know that for me, my system continues to amaze me every day.

[Slimbo]

You should demo rogue. I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised and could save quite a bit of money. I use their rp5 preamp and St 100 amp. They also have a new RP 7 preamp for a fully balanced system. Also made in the USA

[62caddy]

Originally Posted by Amadave

Current Amp/Preamp- McIntosh MC452/C50

For whatever my opinion might be worth, and as someone whose done a lot of instantaneous A/B comparing between tubes and SS, I would stay with what you already have.