• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Recommended Tube Power Amps for MX110Z

Pmonk

Pmonk

Member
Currently running my MX110Z with a MC2505 with Forte II speakers but looking for some tube power amp recommendations.

I would obviously love to add a Mcintosh tube power amp but the price is unrealistic since I have $1500 cash money burning a hole in my wallet.
 
Register to hide this ad
Pmonk said:
Currently running my MX110Z with a MC2505 with Forte II speakers but looking for some tube power amp recommendations.

I would obviously love to add a Mcintosh tube power amp but the price is unrealistic since I have $1500 cash money burning a hole in my wallet.
Click to expand...
You might be able to find an acceptable MC240 for somewhat more, but that about it for Mac. Local purchase and pick up would be ideal, however reno' and fresh tubes would be desirable but add to cost/value.

That price range will get you a pretty decent Dyna Stereo 70 class amp, plug and play. Something Bob Latino perhaps.
 
If you don't want to bust the bank I would also recommend a Dynaco ST-70 amp. 35 WPC but you'd be surprised how well that works in most circumstances. It's considered one of the best tube amps there is and it is easily on par with McIntosh gear assuming it is well maintained. I own 2 of em myself in addition to my McIntosh amps and they get plenty of use. They are also significantly easier to rebuild yourself if you have basic soldering skills. Get an amp for $200-300, rebuild for $100, go. Lots of EL34 type tube options too.
 
In my humble but earnest opinion, there is nothing an early Mc tube amplifier will do better than the amplifier you have right now.
 
I've always wanted to try an MC225 with mine, but I'm pretty satisfied with the MC250 (plain Jane version of your 2505) that I am running with it now.
 
Just to match the classic look and feel of the same era, I connect my MX-110Z with a MC240. If you want a tube amp, you should be able to get a decent MC240 for around $2K-$2.5K, the lower end ones might need a little bit more $ in rebuild in the long run. Good luck.
 
Last edited:
I've never owned Forte II speakers. Am I correct that they are rated at 99dB sensitivity? If so, and assuming an average size room and reasonable listening levels, an EL34 or KT88 amp should have ample power. A 7189 (EL84) based amp might be adequate.

For $1,500 you might be able to find a Scott LK150 (KT88). A Pilot SA-260 (EL34) is more scarce, but should be within your budget. I run both of these with a McIntosh MX110Z, and Klipsch RF-7II speakers. Both of these tube power amps are capable of great sound.

I've never owned a Fisher SA-300 (EL34). You might wish to do some research on this power amp.

Fisher, Scott, and Pilot made other power amps - the ones I've listed above are just a few examples.

Good luck.
 
Last edited:
I'm currently using a 90's production ST 70 Series 2 with my 110 which sounds fantastic. I've also use a AES 300B SE amp and a AES Superamp, both assembled from kits. The Latono ST 70 should be a good choice.
 

Attachments

  • 20160130_184443.jpg
    20160130_184443.jpg
    55.4 KB · Views: 11
I have an MC240 with an MX110z, I have also tried it with my Fisher SA-300, And Dynaco ST70. IMO, the MC240 was the best fit. Funny, but the Fisher sounded good with SS pre. The Dynaco stays with the PAS.


image.jpg
 
If you enjoy the sounds of an electric guitar (and judging by your avatar, you do), I would use that $1500 towards some non horn loaded speakers - IME I have yet to hear a horn that can really get guitar midrange tone "right".
 
Horns suit brass and percussion best, imo. Strings and voice not so much. It's their dynamics that wow many listeners. Speakers with waveguide horns are a good compromise.
 
Since I did the B & K Sound Forte II crossover, changed the tweeter diaphragm with the Titanium Diaphragm and replaced a blown woofer
CW1230 12 Inch 4 ohm Woofer, I am very happy the way the Forte II sounds.

I'm in no rush to replace the 2505 since it does the job quite well (and my tech guy thinks I should use the 2200 since he believes us sonically better) I just want to eventually upgrade to a tube power amp.

I will probably just contact Audio Classic and save up for one of the 240 they have. All I got to do is sell the guitar in my avatar. (a 1979 Gibson Les Paul Standard)
 
The MC240 is a great amp. If you're stretching your original budget, I suggest that you also consider a pair of MC30s.
 
Pio1980 said:
You might be able to find an acceptable MC240 for somewhat more, but that about it for Mac. Local purchase and pick up would be ideal, however reno' and fresh tubes would be desirable but add to cost/value..
Click to expand...

Decided just to save some beans over time and contact Audio Classics for a MC 240.

The 2505 certainly does the job and will continue doing the job but just love that tube sound.
 
Well it would be difficult to dispute the MC240 is a "natural" match for MX110 both in terms of era as well as model hierarchy.

Cost no object buyers usually paired the MC275 with a C22 and an MR71.
 
A 2505 in good condition puts out 70 watts before clipping, So you would need a 275 to match up. The newer SS amps have a medium input impedance which doesn't match up with the Mx-110 requirements. If you want some real muscle a MC 2125 or 2205 would work, too, if you want a smoother SS state sound as compared to your 2505. I know I still have a 2505 I use for head phones.
 
If the MC240 is above your $1,500 range, you might look at some Heathkit W5-M monoblocks (25w), a HK Citation V stereo amp. (a less expensive alternative to the Citation II), a Scott 208 stereo amp (same power amp section as the LK72b/299d integrated) or the Dynaco ST70 mentioned before. There really isn't anything Mac tube in the $1,500 range unless you're lucky or it needs a lot of work.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom