Does Mc Intosh make reference gear

No MAC does not make current 'reference level' gear.
MAC is well below reference level.
MAc IMO is about the reference level of the best gear in the early 1980's
Prior the the 'audiophile revolution' of the mid 80's when the 'high end' was really born.

Whats reference level gear?

*******Prior the the 'audiophile revolution' of the mid 80's when the 'high end' was really born*******

A Date that will live in infamy!!!

Cheers

The British invasion of the 70's is when 'actual' hi end distinguished itself imo. Recognized or not. McIntosh sounded like absolute junk in comparison. No different from all the Asian crap jumping on the bandwagon. Just more power. However I'm speaking strictly ss here. As far as tubes go, Mac was an 'also ran'. Lots of good 'old' stuff out there. What Mac has going for it is establishment, not pedigree. It sounds okay and has it's following. Sometimes it's wise to 'leave good enough alone'.

Does McIntosh make reference gear? Sound is in the ear of the beholder. McIntosh does not make the most expensive gear, although not cheap my any means. Some equate the most expensive gear as reference level.

Being a owner of the McIntosh MA6600, I can only state that it is the best sound out of all my former and current systems. Tube or solid state. And in league with some gear I had chance to audition at fine audio salons. Gear that many may indeed rank as reference gear.

IMO they do stand out for the pack. Great sound, much appreciated features, impeccable build that lasts for years, going into decades. Not cookie cutter looks, their gear has in own distinctive look. Excellent customer service and high pride of ownership.