are all amps equal


I have recently gotten the Mcintosh bug, but a friend of my who does a LOT or reading on the net says power output is the answer not the name. I am looking for the best sound I can get in the 3k$ range for my Usher Be 718s. I have looked at many used Mcintosh units in the 200 watt plus output area, but my friend says a new 250 watt Emotiva would be a better value. The Emotiva is around $800.
I would like some imput.. Thanks, Don
keslerd
Tvad - I found bass to be directional in spite of claims tha it is not and some LP recording that were mono below 150 Hz. It is probably in harmonics but wouldn't sub make it worse.

Also - don't you feel that speakers like Revel Saloon designed to go very low are better choice than smaller speakers + sub. Price wise second solution might be cheaper but very good subs are not cheap.
03-28-09: Kijanki
Tvad - I found bass to be directional in spite of claims tha it is not and some LP recording that were mono below 150 Hz.

I think this statement is contradictory. Mono below 150Hz indicates non-directional bass.

Also - don't you feel that speakers like Revel Saloon designed to go very low are better choice than smaller speakers + sub.
Kijanki (Threads | Answers)

Yes, but that's not helpful to the OP, who has indicated his intention to keep his bookshelf speakers.
Yes, but that's not helpful to the OP, who has indicated his intention to keep his bookshelf speakers.

Sorry - I lost the focus.
I say the $800 Emotiva would make an excellent subwoofer amplifier. Buy the Mac for your Ushers, and the Emotiva for your new passive. Now everyone except your wife is happy and you're broke... just the way it should be :)