Mac Change
 

I’m considering an amplifier change at some point. Can someone speak to the differences I might experience going from an MA8950 to the MA12000? I don’t need a DAC so would I better off going with a separate amp and preamp this time out? As always I really appreciate all points of view here.

Many of us here prefer the separate amp and preamp route because you have more flexibility if you want to swap around to a tube amp vs SS, or even "upgrade" the pre. I think the MA12000 is a pretty nice all in one option, especially since you can switch between tubes or SS on the preamp side. Your choices are pretty limited on the preamp side in Mc's current lineup if you don't want a DAC included.

When I changed from integrated to separates, my dealer at the time advised to go with a tube preamp and SS amps. I could not be happier and currently have the C2700 and MC611's. Yes the C2700 comes with their current DAC. If you want to save some money you can always get the C2600. It still has a DAC but an earlier version.

Xtraheadroom, would the pre-amp & amp be used for music only or multi-duty (movies / TV)?

Like the other guys, I prefer separates. It was the only way I could get an all-tube configuration. I went with a C22 because I preferred my separate DAC. The guts of a C22 are very similar to C2700.

On all tubes vs tube pre and SS power, you really need to listen for yourself

Personally, for me, it's all tubes for music.

But, for home theater, I love McIntosh solid-state, especially the quad-balanced amplifiers.

McMan- It would be for music only. I’m going to further explore the separates option before moving forward. Thanks all.

If you find a C1100 pre on resell take it! It has a very good phono and no DAC. Once you change tubes to Gold Lion, it will really sing. It also matches very well with MC611. Good luck.