From what I have read over time on this forum Mcintosh tube receivers did NOT use unity coupled output transformers. A step down from the amps.
Thinking of getting some Mac gear
- Thread starter CavScout
- Start date
As 62caddy pointed out, both the 1500 & 1700 utilized tube components. FWIW, it was a Mac 1700 that I was first exposed to via an older sibling of a close friend when I was in my mid teens that got me hooked.
This was at a time when Marantz, Pioneer, Sansui, etc, ruled mainstream hi fi systems. Nothing sounded quite like it.
Even today, I use a Mac 1700 as a second smaller system. Nothing lacking in sound quality there.
Go Giants
Well-Known Member
I didn't realize the 1500 used 7591 output tubes. My Fisher 500b uses the same and they sound incredible. Rich is a good word to use to describe the sound.
W9TR
Super Member
I owned and restored an SX-1250 at the same time I owned a MAC4300V. I would say the two were equivalent sound wise. I still have the MAC 4300V and sold the SX -1250 but that was more to take advantage of very high values for the SX-1250 at the time I sold it, not a preference for one over the other. So, to the OP, if you're looking for something dramatically better, you won't find it. If you are looking for something cool and vintage, an early MAC receiver with a tube output stage and a tube tuner would give you a window into what great hifi sounded like in the 60's.
Tom
Tom
