I just picked up a Mcintosh 4100 over the weekend. This would be my first introduction to anything Mcintosh. I've been using a Yamaha AS 1200 and Sansui AU 9500. I surprised how much musicality and punch it has compared to the Yamaha amp. The Wharfdales Lintons seem to come alive and suck me into the music which I found the Yamaha never did. The Sansui also has that exciting presence.
What's strange is I've been using these cables not high end but decent speaker cables with the Yamaha and it sounded good. Got some cheapo speaker wire from Target with the Mac and it sounds better to me. Everything I know is wrong.
Congrats to you on landing an excellent receiver. In my case I've had well over a ton of integrateds and receivers pass through here. Many many Sansui's Yamahas Pioneers Kenwoods, Marantz, Luxmans etc. have come and gone and even a couple of au9500's yet my Mcintosh 4100 stands alone here now as my only vintage silverfaced unit. Enjoy
Nice piece Mac builds right. My MA6300 is 12+ years old SN when new, under controlled conditions line 97 dB x 28.28 amp gain = 0.4 mV amp 110 dB = 0.09 mV Sum 0.49 mV Overall 95.25 dB, very good My measured? 100% volume @ speaker ~0.15 mV or 105 dB or greater this is on utility vs. lab power, all cables connected, no input shorting This is why the reputation is deserved
I'm enamored with the sound from the 4100. Something that's been missing from my setup. Music wasn't as exciting with the 1200, more analytical I imagine. Now I want to pick up some other Mcintosh gear
I bought a completely refurbed 4100 a few months ago. It's one of my favorite pieces. I love the way it sounds and looks. The pre and power are basically the same as the venerable MA 6200. The first receiver to carry the McIntosh name.
Your idea is right. I listen to both McIntosh (MA 6100) and Sansui (4000 receiver). For those reasons. And both have been long term in my systems. Sansui AU 9500 respected highly. We're kindred spirits (P.S. The MA 6100 is my second one, the oldest of the two I've owned). Enjoy the music.
Those older Sansui's are great. Had a 4000 and an 800...both excellent. My only remaining Sansui is my Eight... and a 3000a that needs rehab.
I'm really impressed with the 4100 after having for a couple of months. It's making me want to hear other Mac products like the separates. I've always wanted the MC 2105 and a preamp to go with it. It's a whole other rabbit hole. Those Sansui Eights were one of the best receivers Sansui made.