I don't have any experience with ARC, but have owned complete McIntosh systems since 1984. Their service has always been impecable. Keep in mind that I've only had to use their service department a handful of times,and attribute this to the awesome quality of their components.I currently have a full Mac system which costs me upward of $4o,ooo.I'm well aware of other companies whose products are also extremely well made and produce exceptenal sound, but I am a Mac junkie and absolutely love their products, as well as the company itself, whose labs in Bingimton, NY I have visited.