Mcintosh 402 or 501

[drexel]

:T :T :T I recently got my 802D and 803D and will be picking up a used HTM1D this weekend, I was using a Mcintosh 207 for these and that was not enough for the 802 so I got a 402 and what a difference and then two weeks later got better cables and speaker wire and Wow! what another difference ( from Goertz Cables they are frickin awesome!!!)

My dealer suggested Biamping the 207 to the HTM1D and 803 but was told from some other sources that I should just get three 501sfor the front and then use the 402 for the rears.
I can get 3 used 501s for $ 10,000, Is that going to make that much of a difference, The 802Ds sound very very sweet with that 402 and its only been about 20 hours on them

Thanks, :T

Drexel

[Cactus]

I agree that MC501 across the front and the 402 for rears will sound amazing.
3 for 10K is also a great deal (pretty much like buy 2 get 1 free!) Take advantage of that offer and find a new home for the MC207.

[Josh]

3 501's across the front will be a huge improvement over the 207. You won't even believe your ears. The 501 is also a noticeable improvement over the 402 as well. You won't be disappointed at all.

[drexel]

I want the 501s and know that once I put that big head (htm1D) in the middle it will require the juice to make it sing but I just spent $ 30,000 on the other equipment.
like I said the 402 sounds very very good so my only hope is that the 501s make more than a noticable difference

Drexel

[jericho]

Go for three blocks 501 and take a 402 for surround!!!

[jack d]

I just upgraded from a 402 to all 501s on my 802Ds (and HTM1D which was driven by an Anthem). It makes a significant difference. I really liked the 402 driving the 802ds but the 501s make the sound more full and lush and I've only been listening for a few hours.

[Jesse111]

If you can get 501's, do it. Yes, you will hear an immediate improvement. Personally I wouldn't waste my money or time biamping. I think your dealer gave you bad advice there. The 501's are spectacular. I own a pair myself.

[drexel]

Thanks Jesse, Thats what I want to do not only the sound but the way those Macs look! 3 501s across and the 402 for the rear

[jack d]

Thanks Jesse, Thats what I want to do not only the sound but the way those Macs look! 3 501s across and the 402 for the rear

That's exactly the amplification I have now and it's great. BTW there seem to be a lot of 501s floating around for sale on audiogon (at least there were last week) so if you are looking to save some money you might check it out.