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McIntosh MC2105---just looking at it makes me feel good. Newer? Better? Sure. Would they give me the same pleasure of owning? Doubtful (for the money at least).
We got a record number of responses last week when we asked readers to share their loudspeaker preferences. Now tell us what <I>drives</I> those speakers.
YBA Integré DT. If you don't have more than $5000 to spend on separate amp and preamp, don't look (hear) further. Also, don't think that because it is small that it cannot deliver . . . I have electrostatics, and this amp just loves to be pushed to the limit. In fact, the manufacturer specifed that it is at its best with the volume more than halfway up!!! Amazingly, even in summer it runs cool . . . the only thing that is hot is the sound.
I use a Conrad-Johnson CAV-50 driving a pair of Meadowlark Shearwaters (hot-rod version). What a great combination! These are both absolutely top best-buys, in my book. The C-J responds very, very well to 12AX7 replacement with either Telefunken or Mazda (France) NOS tubes.
Bryston B-60R---the only component I've ever had that I was totally satisfied with. This would be a great buy if it were just a preamp, but throw in a great-sounding 60Wpc amp as well and a 20-year warranty, and you've got great sound for a lifetime.