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McIntosh MC303 vs MC402 with 501's?

Hi there AGon,

I currently have 3 MC501's across the front for home theater and am wondering about completing the setup with either an MC402 or an MC303. I know that presents a plethora of amp org options, but I am wondering sonically what people reccomend.

I know the output specs on both and that on a per channel basis the 402 seems the route to go. But after reading on forums, and reading comments from Ron C, about the actual power vs rating of the 303 is different, I'm curious.

What I really want to know is do people think it a good combo having the 303 do center and surrounds in which case I'd have a 501 for trade or sale, or do I stick with my current belief that 501's have to be the best combo in this?
mhelming
cio52
71 posts
 
I know Classe is quality gear but is there some reason you are not considering the new MX150 or a MX136 from MC?
mhelming OP
24 posts
 
The MX 150 is certainly what I want. It seems to be at the top of the pile presently. But pricey!!!! 12-13k!!
kaiyen
2 posts
 
Mind if I quasi-hijack this thread?

I'm looking at a similar scenario. Kind of. I don't have the money to buy a 3 channel and a 2 channel, and the comments about the 5 channel amps being underpowered or something makes me a bit leery of them. Those are vague comments so far.

I can't find any 303's for sale. But I can find 402's for instance. Do I power the mains on the 402's and then...use my Yamaha DSP-A1 for the center and just wait for a 3 channel? Maybe look at a mono block? But I think a mono will be too much power for the center.

martin logans for front and center, btw.
jlind325is
113 posts
 
I would be worried about the voicing diffence between the yamaha and the mcintosh. Keep an eye on videogon as well for 303s
theo's avatar
theo
2,331 posts
 
I agree the MX150 seems to be the pinnacle at this point. I wanted to buy one as I had alwasy had Mcintosh. I traded my MX135 in on the Anthem D2v and it seems to be excellent for HT sound. However for 2 Channel it is not a McIntosh replacement. I have Audio Research LS26 for 2 channel but I tried using the Anthem for 2 channel a few months back and was disappointed in it's performance. If the budget ever permits I will upgrade to the MX150.
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