Years ago, I purchased a modern AM/FM CD player for my remote country estate and when I plugged it in it would not pick up a single radio station. The search just went round and round. I brought it back to my city home and it worked fine. I guessed that it was the modern quartz-lock tuning that only wanted to lock onto a perfect signal. So I went to a thrift store and bought a Harman Kardon 430 receiver for $14.99 and the ANALOG tuner picked up station 150 miles away. I WAS HOOKED
Could it be in my experience that mid- and woofers are better these days than old stuff, and on the other hand, affordable tweeters are just as good as in the 80'
Still need to hear something "new" in the high(er) dollar range I.e. not the $200 Edifiers on Amazon. I enjoy my Polk Monitors and SDAs and would like to see something modern that beats them. Not saying there isn't, it's just not very accessible anymore, and I definitely don't have $10k/per side money!!
Funny, just last night a mentioned to my wife that I’d love to hear some newer speakers in my system. I honestly doubt I can bring myself to replacing my A/D/S though.
Who else gets giddy when they see those aqua blue lights or even dark blue water looking LEDs in vintage equipment and certain modern alike such as in Marantz MacIntosh and some Sansui🎉❤🎉
I toured the McIntosh factory in 2014. Their dedication to quality and service is king. They can restore or repair any component they make or made regardless of age. They also have a so-called unaffiliated sister store in a town not far away from their factory that has the used equipment for sale that has been serviced. It’s called Audio Classics in Vestal New York. No foreign manufacturer can beat that.
Tube rolling is easy.I have a Advanced Paris A12.After the outer cover is removed, take a picture of the wiring on the tube circuit board then remove 2 screws on the board.Unplug all the wires on the board and put them out away when sliding out the board.The tubes can be removed from the board.I put some NOS Mullards and the amp is really sweet.Thx for the video.
I was reminiscing about the "Golden Age of Audio" of the 60's and 70's with a friend when he surprised me by saying we are in the second "Golden Age of Audio" right now. Best of both worlds- vintage models restored to peak condition and new brands like the Advance Paris! Something for everyone!
@@gr7485 It's moot, as there is no place to listen to one here. I won't blind buy it. I had good Luxman stuff from the 70s with Wharfdale speakers. I run dsd files from my DAP through it. Good enough. It's like the brand feels it's customers are morons. This is my opinion, and mine alone (people are now on a hair trigger to read something offensive into the most innocent statements, and unpopular opinions seem to be verboten, so I clarify this).
I always pick vintage over modern, because I'm vintage myself, but that Advance Paris is one of the most beautiful amps I have ever seen. Kind of like picking your favorite child.
I purchased an A-10 Classic in April and love it! I had been fiddling with my 1970's amp w/ noise and dropouts for a while now and there is NO repair shop here. Now I have something that is great and reliable too. And my CD player connects thru the digital co-ax connection in the back. Watch all of your videos as they come out. {any Advance Paris A-10 Classic t-shirts in the future??}
So good to have found your post. I have not heard about Macintosh since my introduction to them in the 70s. They were out of my price range then so I compromised with the purchase of a Marantz 2245 in 1972 with Advent loudspeakers and a Dual turntable. My turntable was the only piece to wear out, but the receiver with walnut cabinet looks and performs like new with only the replacement of the on off button spring after 20 yrs. The loudspeakers look and perform the same, but with woofer and grill cloth repairs after 30 yrs or so. Thank you for covering both the vintage and modern. Brings back great memories.
I can definitely see how these are attractive to guys who like all-in-one wonder boxes, but the more features that I see on the list the less I want it! I prefer my Pre-Amp separate from my Power Amp and so on. Adds a lot of redundancy if not as clean as just one big box! Maybe I want to change my DAC/Preamp/Streamer/Amp etc. Obviously not the products for me. Appreciate the video as always!
The CD was KD Lang, and the shot of the records showed Roy Orbison! Ironically, they both did a great duo on the song "Crying"! I really like the look of that A10 ! I would consider buying it!
Well Kevin, as an authorized dealer perhaps you could mention to Advance Paris the advantages of offering a wood cabinet option... explain it to them. Looked awesome.
If he speaks Chinese maybe. Designed in France, MADE IN COMMUNIST CHINA TO KILL McIntosh. Like Luxman and Quad anf Castle and Leak and Mission, CHICOMS BUY THE BRANDS AFTER DESTROYING THEM. Skylabs didn't tell you that.
Hey Kevin, for over a year Ive been patiently waiting for a nice 30 minute video on the Fisher 400, 500 and 800 B and C models. Very underrated vintage units that deserve more attention. I know they can be a nightmare to service compared to comparable Macintosh units but they sound just as good. Back in the 60s, these Fisher units were the same $450 dollar price point as the Macintosh MC275.
I bought in 2019, Advance-Acoustic x-preamp and A-160 power amp and listen over Advance acoustic K11-S speakers...I surprised with the price/performance ...After 5 years I found a good deal and upgrade my system again with Advance Acoustic X-X-i1100 and XL-500 speakers...I highly recommend the brand..They are really sound fantastic.
Great comparison! As a long time Mac collector, 11 pieces at the moment and running out of space, the question I ask myself often? Is it worth the hassle if maintaining them? The answer? Well. Hell yeah!!! I whole heartedly agree that the convenience of modern gear is very appealing. I did sell one if my tube amps, a 240, to buy a C2600 tube preamp that offers all of the modern amenities yet provides the vontage McIntosh sound and bullet proof Mac build quality. I pair it with late 60's Mc275's or sometimes a 2105. As for sound my personal choice will always be vintate tube gear with NEW speakers, excepting some Tannoy 15 " Reds that are 45 years old and remarkable for any good vocal source. A Mac 275, 240, or 225 will make any very good speaker sound great and a great one sound other worldly! As an added bonus, diring the winter they'll heat your house for you, allowing you to save bank for your next speaker upgrade!😂
A mono button is important to me for a lot of older mono records. The McIntosh has it, definitely not know about the other. I have a C2300 preamp with 2 MC30s for both vintage and modern sound and features.
Love your presentations...I like a little old and new...from my 1970 Pioneer SA 700, through to my big Denon AV receiver...great work...greetings from Melbourne - Australia !!! 240 V territory...
Really like Advance Paris. There is a difference in sound you need to experience to decided what you want. I just purchased a Marantz 120b, just finished re-cap (Power board was a disaster, fried LED lights), but what a unique Sound compared to all my others, 22 of them..
Back in the day, Marantz was definitely mid, I am still startled by people talking about Marantz in the same breath as Mcintosh, and I never hear about Luxman at all these days, which is my prefferd sound, late 70s Luxman
Hey Brothers! This is the Black man O.G audiophile. I'm definitely feeling what Eric went through with the Advance amplifier from the classic Sota Sapphire I purchased back in May. Been up many late nights, going to work sleepy, and the real bomb is I haven't played a cd all summer! This is despite the fact that my Rotel cd14 mk2 is very highly musical and enjoyable. Still blown away by the Sapphire. I got it and yet still don't get it! Enjoyably perplexing!
That Advantage Paris is one of the sexiest looking pieces of equipment I’ve seen. I would choose over Mc including the newer ones. It looks great and has been very well reviewed. Thanks for the video.
If you like the McIntosh sound, nothing else will suffice. I had a C27 preamp for several years but changed to a Linn Majik 1-P (the one from the mid 90's) because it had a smoother sound, especially on vinyl. No doubt, Mac gear is made to last forever. A friend of mine has the C27 which, according to a database I found on the internet someplace, was built in 1982. So it's 42 years old and still going strong. There aren't many brands that make gear that still performs after that long a time. Regarding the Advance Paris and its tubes, those 12AT7/ECC81 tubes should last for years as they only handle low-level signals. I wouldn't worry about their needing replacement for a long time.
Bought my MA6100 back in 1977 while in college.....still rocks doing duty as just an amp for my outdoor speakers....but going to swap it back into my system when I find a class D to take over those duties
I have 4 McIntosh vintage pieces. 2 pre 2 amps. I think they’re one of the best deals in vintage hifi. Based on the prices of Pioneer and Marantz receivers, you can get McIntosh integrated for a quarter of the price. Gimme the Mac any day. It seems to me when you cram all those components (tubes, dacs) into the Advanced Paris, you gotta think they have cut a corner somewhere. Don’t get me wrong, Advanced Paris looks great and I’m sure sounds great. My McIntosh amps have different sounds.The autoformer Macs are much warmer. They wanted them to sound like tubes. The Direct coupled amps are more neutral.
I was a teenager / young man in the 70s. Stationed overseas in the USAF I was able to get my hands on the H/K Citation series stuff, JBL speakers, and even a reel-to-reel way cheaper than back home. I really enjoyed all that for years. Today I have one of the newer Marantz receivers and drive it from the computer into good B&W speakers. With vintage, even as nice as that stuff was back then the thought of having to recap all the electronics and do the repairs is a bridge too far for me. Electrolytics do not last forever... To my old ears my newer stuff sounds really good. But, I do miss the tape loop as I still have a reel-to-reel. Another downside to the newer stuff is there seems to be some sort of blockage (probably DRM) going from the digital to the analog domain keeping one from recording from digital sources.
The A-10 looked pretty cool on its own, but then you showed it within a wood cabinet and that was the cherry on the cake. Amazing what adding the wood does in dressing it up.
Good evening, 10 years ago I equipped myself here in France with a 2x45 W class A Bamplifier plus a 2 x 100 watt block. I have never been satisfied. The latest models are much better. I am thinking of the Goldstar brand from the 2000s which became LG which have made good progress.
Bought an Advance Audio A12 last week and traded my Odyssey pre and power amp in at my local store. The A12 is from 08/2023 and i've compared both and liked the A12 a bit more. They were connected to Focal speakers that are quite different from my own Tannoy dual concentrics. We worked out a great deal and i just love the A12. It's a fun, detailed and yet also pretty easy to listen to amp. A big step up from the Odyssey amp combo. The DAC is a nice touch, but nothing special. The phonostage however is amazing for and integrated piece. I currently have two turntables hooked up, both with MC cart and while my standalone Lehmann Blackcube sounds better, the A12's phonostage still sounds very good. And with the Tannoy's i'm also using it in high bias mode. Sounds better and still has a lot of power.
I have vintage stuff ~50 years old, and I have new stuff. Both have their allure and I think I'd also be hard-pressed to decide between the two, if it came to that. Thankfully... I can enjoy both. Thanks again and regards.
@skylabs audio, could you do a version of vintage vs modern for sub $1000 (or even better, sub$500) modern and vintage amps for those of us just dipping our toes into this?
It’s awesome just listening to you talk !! You’re cool as shit bro , the McIntosh stance you made in your other video was so spot on but hilarious and relatable for me !! Haha anyways I was born in 82 so I grew up between the vinyl to cassette to cd days and my dad still to this day has his Mac … can’t remember which model but what’s funny is he recently retired and moved to AZ from here in North Dakota, and when he left he gave me everything from his entire vinyl collection to his snow blower ….. but when I asked for the McIntosh he just laughed and I wouldn’t be surprised if the damn thing had its own plane ticket 😂 but you’re right , listening to those amps is something special, I grew up watching my dad and his buddies just gawk over them, trade and sell etc …. Elite amplifiers for sure
I love collecting, refurbishing, and using my vintage stereo receivers...great fun. However, at this time I am listening to this video using an ONIX APLHA XL1 DAC (plugged into the PC's USB-A port via adapted USB-C cable). This $100 DAC is incredible and can power both my headphones and IEM's with aplomb. The balanced 4.4mm connection delivers up to 500mW at 32 Ohms. At the moment, I am using Hidizs MP-145 planar IEM's (~$120). Relatively affordable audiophile sound quality, imho. For a portable DAC, this baby pairs well with my headphones, too.
That's interesting. I'll have to look into that. Class A is still rare in high powered amps. I really like the Technics take on Class A, but admittedly it's a bit too smooth. Gorgeous sound though.
I have to admit I have not heard either one of these units. I would say just on looks alone it would be a huge toss-up because they both look absolutely beautiful. I do like the newer style being able to see the tubes though. Great video man.
Very interesting dilema. I'm 79, and too old to be concerned any longer about history or the future - more what I have to listen to today and tomorrow. Yet, here I am. The only vintage stuff I have now is Harman Kardon T-40 and T-60 turntables. Turntables aside by their nature, I would not want to give up remote control of any of the other devices. Having the A10 would likely be my choice for most listening. Then, the McIntosh would be nice to have - some things are just nice to have, and listen to when it suits the occasion. A lot of now vintage gear would be like that for me, and I've been fortunate to have had a few of the classics when they were still new and mostly unknown products, including JBL L100's and early production Technics SL1200. I don't miss them now, but I like thinking about them. Well, actually, having four JBL L100's again might be nice...... :) BTW, I remember the Maxell poster and tv ads. The dude has hs L100's sitting on a bare, and directly on the floor at that. Lame. :):):) I need a T-shirt.
The late 80's started the audio/video FM/AM Stereo Receivers! Realistic at Radio Shack was engineering some nice receivers like the Realistic STA-117 & the STA-2150 models!
problem with old gear is there are no legitimate shops that can do correct repairs to restore as OEM. They take your $ and replace caps but that hardly ever fixes issues
The Advanced Paris looks like the gauges on Volkwagons in the early 00's... Neat looking Amp, To be honest I thought it was ChiFi the first time I saw it but then I read more up and determined I was clearly wrong. Cool amp id love to try one day.
It's not only about tube rolling when dealing with audio equipment. Tubes can go bad at any moment. It should be as simple as removing the cover and replacing the tubes. I would have to think hard about the Advance Paris before buying. The unit does look nice though. And the McIntosh C26 in the wood case is so beautiful it belongs in a museum.
Macintosh has also the history versus the fraction amount of time at advance paras AUDIO has been in business. Also the advanced paras AUDIO with the tubes glowing in the front. Definitely reminds me of the integrated stuff of the 1980s and 90s from Luxman where they had the two tubes glowing in the front just like the advanced par AUDIO has
The Advance Paris is mesmerising, b/c of the vacuum tube glow, but... to get more treble/bass I would have to use a remote control? I like vintage for the shiny levers... You never have to ask yourself, 'Where did I put the tone defeat?' Remotes are a disconnect from that hands-on feeling.
I own an MA-6200. It packs a punch. It does have a very warm sound compared to my 2325, 9090DB & my SX-1010. I also have a 2250B & I find the Pioneer to be the best sounding that I’ve ever heard. I have paired many speakers from L-100’s to Ohm Walsh 2’s, Canton Ergo’s to Ohm Walsh F’s @ 4/3 ohms & I can tell ya, that’s where the buck stops. Sonic bliss. The SX-1010 is the unit. I would sell my McIntosh, Sansui & Marantz’s before I’d ever part with the SX-1010 & Ohm Walsh F’s. I like a lot of new gear but, I love vintage because t harkens back to my childhood. When music & gear was part of growing up. Going to concerts and seeing bands in their prime. Checking out a new album & going to friends and seeing equipment that you couldn’t afford. Falling asleep to the pioneer in my bed as kid with the greenish blue dial lights listening to wshe. The looks of vintage is like looking at an old muscle car or vintage Harley. Still sexy to have it in the living room. Vintage really makes that statement. Vintage for me.
Thanks for The Videos I own a MA6100 and really like it. I own a MR 77 MVP 851 (Where do you get belts for this unit) My unit is working very well Thanks
Great video, but what's the sense in using lofi bg music with intentional wow n flutter when showcasing such expensive gear that aims to minimize sound defects?
The Advance Paris seems really nice! A two year warranty, though? All my Macs (C33, MC2255, MC2105s, MC30s, etc.) are 40-60 years old. I've had most of them serviced, but it was generally pretty minimal and they've all gone decades without needing anything. One MC2105 has been a bass guitar amplifier, a PA amp, a studio amp, dragged around the country without a case (and without a front glass) for years, and still sounds amazing. Dave O'Brien used to laugh when I brought it in to his clinics back in the day, knowing that even though it looked like hell, it was going to beat the specs. Sure enough. But, I bet the Advance Paris does sound great.
interesting video. Was not aware of Paris Audio. They make monoblocks and other gear as well. Interesting to see Paris used through hole components on the boards vs. SMD caps and resistors which many brands have moved to. All to cut costs and populate those PCB boards for much less. Continuously increasing inflation (green back buys less and less each year) continues to drive up the prices of MAC gear, Marantz gear as well as just about everything else.
Well, comparing the A-10 to the McIntosh MA 6100 is like comparing the Acura NSX to a Ferrari 308 and subsequent 328. I don't question the good quality and reliability of the NSX but, if given a choice, I'd go straight to the Maranello product. Ditto for this amp comparison, if I was in the market for a 2 channel amp in that price range, the MA 6100 would be my choice by far. I'd rather have the real thing than an inspired version and Made in China with no proven track record of reliability. We all know the Binghamton product will be around many more years and always serviceable and repairable.
I've had this very thought. My conclusion: the studio is creative and engineers use different gear to color the sound of instruments they are recording. Playback is not creative, but rather to a lot of people, the goal is to not color the sound at all . Just my 2cents. It's a good question.
I think the lack of tube rolling for the A10 is a deal killer. Even if you don't want to tube roll but one of your JJ tube kicks the bucket, you'll have to send it in. Too bad...
Ten years from now will parts be available. I think that really is the looming question. Its strange you can buy the Advance Paris from Germany much cheaper than a USA seller at least for now.
Why choose? I have a vintage system for vinyl (late ‘70s Kenwood receiver, Advent, Akai tape and Fluance RP) and a modern system (Denon HT receiver, KEF Q150s and Boston Acoustic surrounds and sub) for the media room. Can do stereo on both with different but excellent sound, got 7.2 surround when desired in the media room and can stream to both (have a WiiM for the vintage system, but rarely use it). Vintage has a classic old school big sound, and the media room just booms with the Q150s filling the room and the sub shaking it.
Kevin, What about the AP MyConnect 150 and 250? While I appreciate the nostalgia for vintage audio, the overinflated cost has also helped me decide to go modern, be done with it, and get on with enjoying the music.
Thanks for the video. I feel bad about saying this, but thought you might want to know: you have a static-y fuzz sound from your mic or recording device. Also, it's nice that you tried to improve the sound with a separate voice recording, but it creates a kind of uncanny valley when there's no sound from the room you're in. Not complaining, just thought you might want to know.
I thought it might be my earphones, so i tried it different ways. The static is there, but the "uncanny valley" problem wasn't really an issue without earphones.
I bought a mac ma6100 in 1976. To this day, it still performs to the max, handles my HD files with ease and has never been serviced. I've been offered more that 2000.00 for 8t, but why sell.
Yes - the wood surround would add a lot to the looks of the Paris as would bright metal trim around the meters. I’ve come to accept (with your help) that a lot of the reason I love my SX1250 is because I love looking at it! I’m just another bone-head that listens with his eyes, I guess. Thanks Eric, your input is always great! It would be nice if you guys did another comparison of a new Yamaha to a vintage Yamaha or other Japanese receiver.
Sad about the tube difficulty issue. Eric what is the name of the rig you have for the Iphone. I am liking the two lock-off cameras with the hand held.
Wow, I've to say I never heard of Advance Paris before. Deciding between the 2 would be hard ( I love my MAC4100) as I am bi-national French-American. I guess use the 6100 as pre-amp to feed the C10 and voila! ;-) I bet the Advance Paris must sound amazing with some Focal speakers....
Years ago, I purchased a modern AM/FM CD player for my remote country estate and when I plugged it in it would not pick up a single radio station. The search just went round and round. I brought it back to my city home and it worked fine. I guessed that it was the modern quartz-lock tuning that only wanted to lock onto a perfect signal. So I went to a thrift store and bought a Harman Kardon 430 receiver for $14.99 and the ANALOG tuner picked up station 150 miles away. I WAS HOOKED
But we're not talking about tuners here. We're talking about amps.
I'm a firm believer that they perfected the amplifier decades ago, but that speakers are continuously improving. I like old amps and new speakers.
Could it be in my experience that mid- and woofers are better these days than old stuff, and on the other hand, affordable tweeters are just as good as in the 80'
You’re 100% right: No doubt about it.
Same. Can't have a weak link when it comes to relying on the guts of the vintage speakers to keep performing to spec.
Still need to hear something "new" in the high(er) dollar range I.e. not the $200 Edifiers on Amazon. I enjoy my Polk Monitors and SDAs and would like to see something modern that beats them. Not saying there isn't, it's just not very accessible anymore, and I definitely don't have $10k/per side money!!
Funny, just last night a mentioned to my wife that I’d love to hear some newer speakers in my system. I honestly doubt I can bring myself to replacing my A/D/S though.
Who else gets giddy when they see those aqua blue lights or even dark blue water looking LEDs in vintage equipment and certain modern alike such as in Marantz MacIntosh and some Sansui🎉❤🎉
Me!
I toured the McIntosh factory in 2014. Their dedication to quality and service is king. They can restore or repair any component they make or made regardless of age. They also have a so-called unaffiliated sister store in a town not far away from their factory that has the used equipment for sale that has been serviced. It’s called Audio Classics in Vestal New York. No foreign manufacturer can beat that.
How do you know?
@@zizzinpuss USA! USA! 😅
@@zizzinpuss Audio Classics have a website. Go have a look.
Just toured McIntosh last week, top tier company and legacy.
I've always found your reviews to be non-subjective - in other words un-biased. You always tell it like it is. Thank you for the honesty.
Tube rolling is easy.I have a Advanced Paris A12.After the outer cover is removed, take a picture of the wiring on the tube circuit board then remove 2 screws on the board.Unplug all the wires on the board and put them out away when sliding out the board.The tubes can be removed from the board.I put some NOS Mullards and the amp is really sweet.Thx for the video.
So, you did it, changed the tubes? I have an A10 and although I'm not planning on rolling tubes any time soon, I like to keep track of details.
I was reminiscing about the "Golden Age of Audio" of the 60's and 70's with a friend when he surprised me by saying we are in the second "Golden Age of Audio" right now. Best of both worlds- vintage models restored to peak condition and new brands like the Advance Paris! Something for everyone!
I couldn't agree more!
I am suspicious of a product that has to say 'Paris' on it
Let your ears decide instead of your suspicions.
@@gr7485 It's moot, as there is no place to listen to one here. I won't blind buy it. I had good Luxman stuff from the 70s with Wharfdale speakers. I run dsd files from my DAP through it. Good enough. It's like the brand feels it's customers are morons. This is my opinion, and mine alone (people are now on a hair trigger to read something offensive into the most innocent statements, and unpopular opinions seem to be verboten, so I clarify this).
@@wahid-lg1kk I'm not sure I follow. Can you please be more specific as to why?
I always pick vintage over modern, because I'm vintage myself, but that Advance Paris is one of the most beautiful amps I have ever seen. Kind of like picking your favorite child.
Hell yeah a new Skylab video!
I purchased an A-10 Classic in April and love it! I had been fiddling with my 1970's amp w/ noise and dropouts for a while now and there is NO repair shop here. Now I have something that is great and reliable too. And my CD player connects thru the digital co-ax connection in the back. Watch all of your videos as they come out. {any Advance Paris A-10 Classic t-shirts in the future??}
So good to have found your post. I have not heard about Macintosh since my introduction to them in the 70s. They were out of my price range then so I compromised with the purchase of a Marantz 2245 in 1972 with Advent loudspeakers and a Dual turntable. My turntable was the only piece to wear out, but the receiver with walnut cabinet looks and performs like new with only the replacement of the on off button spring after 20 yrs. The loudspeakers look and perform the same, but with woofer and grill cloth repairs after 30 yrs or so. Thank you for covering both the vintage and modern. Brings back great memories.
Great review. Glad to see you carrying the Advance Paris. Great information on the AP. Thanks.
Thanks for watching!
I can definitely see how these are attractive to guys who like all-in-one wonder boxes, but the more features that I see on the list the less I want it! I prefer my Pre-Amp separate from my Power Amp and so on. Adds a lot of redundancy if not as clean as just one big box! Maybe I want to change my DAC/Preamp/Streamer/Amp etc.
Obviously not the products for me.
Appreciate the video as always!
The CD was KD Lang, and the shot of the records showed Roy Orbison! Ironically, they both did a great duo on the song "Crying"! I really like the look of that A10 ! I would consider buying it!
Well Kevin, as an authorized dealer perhaps you could mention to Advance Paris the advantages of offering a wood cabinet option... explain it to them.
Looked awesome.
If he speaks Chinese maybe. Designed in France, MADE IN COMMUNIST CHINA TO KILL McIntosh. Like Luxman and Quad anf Castle and Leak and Mission, CHICOMS BUY THE BRANDS AFTER DESTROYING THEM. Skylabs didn't tell you that.
Hey Kevin, for over a year Ive been patiently waiting for a nice 30 minute video on the Fisher 400, 500 and 800 B and C models. Very underrated vintage units that deserve more attention. I know they can be a nightmare to service compared to comparable Macintosh units but they sound just as good. Back in the 60s, these Fisher units were the same $450 dollar price point as the Macintosh MC275.
I bought in 2019, Advance-Acoustic x-preamp and A-160 power amp and listen over Advance acoustic K11-S speakers...I surprised with the price/performance ...After 5 years I found a good deal and upgrade my system again with Advance Acoustic X-X-i1100 and XL-500 speakers...I highly recommend the brand..They are really sound fantastic.
Great comparison! As a long time Mac collector, 11 pieces at the moment and running out of space, the question I ask myself often? Is it worth the hassle if maintaining them? The answer? Well. Hell yeah!!! I whole heartedly agree that the convenience of modern gear is very appealing. I did sell one if my tube amps, a 240, to buy a C2600 tube preamp that offers all of the modern amenities yet provides the vontage McIntosh sound and bullet proof Mac build quality. I pair it with late 60's Mc275's or sometimes a 2105. As for sound my personal choice will always be vintate tube gear with NEW speakers, excepting some Tannoy 15 " Reds that are 45 years old and remarkable for any good vocal source. A Mac 275, 240, or 225 will make any very good speaker sound great and a great one sound other worldly! As an added bonus, diring the winter they'll heat your house for you, allowing you to save bank for your next speaker upgrade!😂
A mono button is important to me for a lot of older mono records. The McIntosh has it, definitely not know about the other. I have a C2300 preamp with 2 MC30s for both vintage and modern sound and features.
Love your presentations...I like a little old and new...from my 1970 Pioneer SA 700, through to my big Denon AV receiver...great work...greetings from Melbourne - Australia !!! 240 V territory...
The production value on your videos is very high end I absolutely appreciate your channel and content 💪🔥🐐
Really like Advance Paris. There is a difference in sound you need to experience to decided what you want. I just purchased a Marantz 120b, just finished re-cap (Power board was a disaster, fried LED lights), but what a unique Sound compared to all my others, 22 of them..
Back in the day, Marantz was definitely mid, I am still startled by people talking about Marantz in the same breath as Mcintosh, and I never hear about Luxman at all these days, which is my prefferd sound, late 70s Luxman
Hey Brothers! This is the Black man O.G audiophile. I'm definitely feeling what Eric went through with the Advance amplifier from the classic Sota Sapphire I purchased back in May. Been up many late nights, going to work sleepy, and the real bomb is I haven't played a cd all summer! This is despite the fact that my Rotel cd14 mk2 is very highly musical and enjoyable. Still blown away by the Sapphire. I got it and yet still don't get it! Enjoyably perplexing!
That Advantage Paris is one of the sexiest looking pieces of equipment I’ve seen. I would choose over Mc including the newer ones. It looks great and has been very well reviewed. Thanks for the video.
If you like the McIntosh sound, nothing else will suffice. I had a C27 preamp for several years but changed to a Linn Majik 1-P (the one from the mid 90's) because it had a smoother sound, especially on vinyl. No doubt, Mac gear is made to last forever. A friend of mine has the C27 which, according to a database I found on the internet someplace, was built in 1982. So it's 42 years old and still going strong. There aren't many brands that make gear that still performs after that long a time.
Regarding the Advance Paris and its tubes, those 12AT7/ECC81 tubes should last for years as they only handle low-level signals. I wouldn't worry about their needing replacement for a long time.
Bought my MA6100 back in 1977 while in college.....still rocks doing duty as just an amp for my outdoor speakers....but going to swap it back into my system when I find a class D to take over those duties
I really enjoy your videos. Today was no exception. Very interesting to see the comparison between the vintage and new amps.
Thank you very much!
That McIntosh integrated from the 70s is absolutely superb. A standard bearer.
From memory, it was designed by Mile Nestorovic or Bill Thomson at Mc.
I have 4 McIntosh vintage pieces. 2 pre 2 amps. I think they’re one of the best deals in vintage hifi. Based on the prices of Pioneer and Marantz receivers, you can get McIntosh integrated for a quarter of the price. Gimme the Mac any day. It seems to me when you cram all those components (tubes, dacs) into the Advanced Paris, you gotta think they have cut a corner somewhere. Don’t get me wrong, Advanced Paris looks great and I’m sure sounds great. My McIntosh amps have different sounds.The autoformer Macs are much warmer. They wanted them to sound like tubes. The Direct coupled amps are more neutral.
What year is the vintage cut off date?
Thankyou Kevin, you are so knowledgeable and you are UA-cam savy! Thanks for all the electronic goodies I have ever gotten from you!
Thanks, Dave!
I was a teenager / young man in the 70s. Stationed overseas in the USAF I was able to get my hands on the H/K Citation series stuff, JBL speakers, and even a reel-to-reel way cheaper than back home. I really enjoyed all that for years. Today I have one of the newer Marantz receivers and drive it from the computer into good B&W speakers. With vintage, even as nice as that stuff was back then the thought of having to recap all the electronics and do the repairs is a bridge too far for me. Electrolytics do not last forever... To my old ears my newer stuff sounds really good. But, I do miss the tape loop as I still have a reel-to-reel. Another downside to the newer stuff is there seems to be some sort of blockage (probably DRM) going from the digital to the analog domain keeping one from recording from digital sources.
Love the Advance Paris A12 , glad you are a Dealership!
The A-10 looked pretty cool on its own, but then you showed it within a wood cabinet and that was the cherry on the cake. Amazing what adding the wood does in dressing it up.
So much better than a sheet metal case.
Good evening, 10 years ago I equipped myself here in France with a 2x45 W class A Bamplifier plus a 2 x 100 watt block. I have never been satisfied. The latest models are much better. I am thinking of the Goldstar brand from the 2000s which became LG which have made good progress.
I sold my MA5200 and replaced it with the A10. I have no complaints
I have an A10 and compared to my vintage gear, it sounds very detailed and bright! Too bright almost - do you feel it's bright at all?
That KD Lang album is amazing! One of my favorites for auditioning gear.
Macintosh is iconic but I’d love to get my hands on the Advance Paris.
Bought an Advance Audio A12 last week and traded my Odyssey pre and power amp in at my local store. The A12 is from 08/2023 and i've compared both and liked the A12 a bit more. They were connected to Focal speakers that are quite different from my own Tannoy dual concentrics. We worked out a great deal and i just love the A12. It's a fun, detailed and yet also pretty easy to listen to amp. A big step up from the Odyssey amp combo. The DAC is a nice touch, but nothing special. The phonostage however is amazing for and integrated piece. I currently have two turntables hooked up, both with MC cart and while my standalone Lehmann Blackcube sounds better, the A12's phonostage still sounds very good. And with the Tannoy's i'm also using it in high bias mode. Sounds better and still has a lot of power.
I am prejudiced because I have a 6100 but the Advance really sounded good when I listened to it up at your shop.
You can like both :)
Ahhhh..the McIntosh I grew up with! Memories!
You had me at “through hole components”. I think I have my vintage forever system now, but just maybe.
I have vintage stuff ~50 years old, and I have new stuff. Both have their allure and I think I'd also be hard-pressed to decide between the two, if it came to that.
Thankfully... I can enjoy both.
Thanks again and regards.
@skylabs audio, could you do a version of vintage vs modern for sub $1000 (or even better, sub$500) modern and vintage amps for those of us just dipping our toes into this?
It’s awesome just listening to you talk !! You’re cool as shit bro , the McIntosh stance you made in your other video was so spot on but hilarious and relatable for me !! Haha anyways I was born in 82 so I grew up between the vinyl to cassette to cd days and my dad still to this day has his Mac … can’t remember which model but what’s funny is he recently retired and moved to AZ from here in North Dakota, and when he left he gave me everything from his entire vinyl collection to his snow blower ….. but when I asked for the McIntosh he just laughed and I wouldn’t be surprised if the damn thing had its own plane ticket 😂 but you’re right , listening to those amps is something special, I grew up watching my dad and his buddies just gawk over them, trade and sell etc …. Elite amplifiers for sure
Thank you Kevin. Made my Sunday morning skip'in on church?!?!
Afternoon in Europe. 😊
Now a days its all about your pocket book ! and it ain't going to get any cheaper soon. LOL
Years ago I worked at VW Chattanooga and we had a special demo car that was painted that kind of purple-ish blue, we called it "BLURPLE".
Looks like the VW Gauge cluster as well from the early 00's which is pretty cool.
I love collecting, refurbishing, and using my vintage stereo receivers...great fun.
However, at this time I am listening to this video using an ONIX APLHA XL1 DAC (plugged into the PC's USB-A port via adapted USB-C cable). This $100 DAC is incredible and can power both my headphones and IEM's with aplomb. The balanced 4.4mm connection delivers up to 500mW at 32 Ohms. At the moment, I am using Hidizs MP-145 planar IEM's (~$120). Relatively affordable audiophile sound quality, imho.
For a portable DAC, this baby pairs well with my headphones, too.
My Sunday morning guilty pleasure.
Morning!
The "Arcam A25" also have 20W in class A and higher to 100W is class A/B. It is called class G with Arcam, i hope you can test this amp also.
That's interesting. I'll have to look into that. Class A is still rare in high powered amps. I really like the Technics take on Class A, but admittedly it's a bit too smooth. Gorgeous sound though.
Great video guys. Thanks so much.
Thanks, Ed!
I have to admit I have not heard either one of these units. I would say just on looks alone it would be a huge toss-up because they both look absolutely beautiful. I do like the newer style being able to see the tubes though. Great video man.
Another good video. There really is only one solution to this dilemma: buy both vintage and new!
I have a mid-2000s McIntosh tube amp going into a 70s McIntosh SS amp, just a wonderful combo.
I'd pick the Advance Paris any day.
I had both brands,you did present in this content, the McIntosh is way above the other brand in several ways
Very interesting dilema. I'm 79, and too old to be concerned any longer about history or the future - more what I have to listen to today and tomorrow. Yet, here I am. The only vintage stuff I have now is Harman Kardon T-40 and T-60 turntables. Turntables aside by their nature, I would not want to give up remote control of any of the other devices. Having the A10 would likely be my choice for most listening. Then, the McIntosh would be nice to have - some things are just nice to have, and listen to when it suits the occasion. A lot of now vintage gear would be like that for me, and I've been fortunate to have had a few of the classics when they were still new and mostly unknown products, including JBL L100's and early production Technics SL1200. I don't miss them now, but I like thinking about them. Well, actually, having four JBL L100's again might be nice...... :) BTW, I remember the Maxell poster and tv ads. The dude has hs L100's sitting on a bare, and directly on the floor at that. Lame. :):):) I need a T-shirt.
The late 80's started the audio/video FM/AM Stereo Receivers! Realistic at Radio Shack was engineering some nice receivers like the Realistic STA-117 & the STA-2150 models!
I have an entry level STA-64 I bought in 1980. Its sitting in a closet unused for now.
Is it possible to change the Advance Paris bulb colors?
problem with old gear is there are no legitimate shops that can do correct repairs to restore as OEM. They take your $ and replace caps but that hardly ever fixes issues
The Advanced Paris looks like the gauges on Volkwagons in the early 00's... Neat looking Amp, To be honest I thought it was ChiFi the first time I saw it but then I read more up and determined I was clearly wrong. Cool amp id love to try one day.
I was thinking the same thing! I still have a ‘99 Passat I bought new and love the lights on the dash
@@claude6141 Loved thelook as well, Had a 00 Jetta VR6
It's not only about tube rolling when dealing with audio equipment. Tubes can go bad at any moment. It should be as simple as removing the cover and replacing the tubes. I would have to think hard about the Advance Paris before buying. The unit does look nice though. And the McIntosh C26 in the wood case is so beautiful it belongs in a museum.
Macintosh has also the history versus the fraction amount of time at advance paras AUDIO has been in business. Also the advanced paras AUDIO with the tubes glowing in the front. Definitely reminds me of the integrated stuff of the 1980s and 90s from Luxman where they had the two tubes glowing in the front just like the advanced par AUDIO has
The Advance Paris is mesmerising, b/c of the vacuum tube glow, but... to get more treble/bass I would have to use a remote control? I like vintage for the shiny levers... You never have to ask yourself, 'Where did I put the tone defeat?' Remotes are a disconnect from that hands-on feeling.
I own an MA-6200. It packs a punch. It does have a very warm sound compared to my 2325, 9090DB & my SX-1010. I also have a 2250B & I find the Pioneer to be the best sounding that I’ve ever heard. I have paired many speakers from L-100’s to Ohm Walsh 2’s, Canton Ergo’s to Ohm Walsh F’s @ 4/3 ohms & I can tell ya, that’s where the buck stops. Sonic bliss. The SX-1010 is the unit. I would sell my McIntosh, Sansui & Marantz’s before I’d ever part with the SX-1010 & Ohm Walsh F’s. I like a lot of new gear but, I love vintage because t harkens back to my childhood. When music & gear was part of growing up. Going to concerts and seeing bands in their prime. Checking out a new album & going to friends and seeing equipment that you couldn’t afford. Falling asleep to the pioneer in my bed as kid with the greenish blue dial lights listening to wshe. The looks of vintage is like looking at an old muscle car or vintage Harley. Still sexy to have it in the living room. Vintage really makes that statement. Vintage for me.
Hmm Pioneer sx 1010...some impression!
Okay I got me!! My Vintage sits unused because of lack of remote
what do you do about a tape loop with the advance paris?
What are the keys differences between the A10 and the A12?
Do you recomend there advance amps also ? Regards from sweden
Thanks for The Videos I own a MA6100 and really like it. I own a MR 77 MVP 851 (Where do you get belts for this unit) My unit is working very well Thanks
Great video, but what's the sense in using lofi bg music with intentional wow n flutter when showcasing such expensive gear that aims to minimize sound defects?
The Advance Paris seems really nice! A two year warranty, though? All my Macs (C33, MC2255, MC2105s, MC30s, etc.) are 40-60 years old. I've had most of them serviced, but it was generally pretty minimal and they've all gone decades without needing anything. One MC2105 has been a bass guitar amplifier, a PA amp, a studio amp, dragged around the country without a case (and without a front glass) for years, and still sounds amazing. Dave O'Brien used to laugh when I brought it in to his clinics back in the day, knowing that even though it looked like hell, it was going to beat the specs. Sure enough. But, I bet the Advance Paris does sound great.
I would have enjoyed meeting Dave. He really believed in the product and the company.
I don't think you can go wrong with mcintosh. The separate are incredible value.
Which one is better for air guitar?
Nice report, thanks!
Thanks for watching!
Definitely gonna be a fun one
interesting video. Was not aware of Paris Audio. They make monoblocks and other gear as well. Interesting to see Paris used through hole components on the boards vs. SMD caps and resistors which many brands have moved to. All to cut costs and populate those PCB boards for much less. Continuously increasing inflation (green back buys less and less each year) continues to drive up the prices of MAC gear, Marantz gear as well as just about everything else.
Well, comparing the A-10 to the McIntosh MA 6100 is like comparing the Acura NSX to a Ferrari 308 and subsequent 328. I don't question the good quality and reliability of the NSX but, if given a choice, I'd go straight to the Maranello product. Ditto for this amp comparison, if I was in the market for a 2 channel amp in that price range, the MA 6100 would be my choice by far. I'd rather have the real thing than an inspired version and Made in China with no proven track record of reliability. We all know the Binghamton product will be around many more years and always serviceable and repairable.
I'd choose the NSX. But then again, that's what I own! (a 1991)
Just picked up a super clean Mac 1700 yesterday for $500!
Must've been 🔥
Oh but you can have a wired preamp volume control using the pre in/outs on vintage audio so equipped!
Totally dig your channel
great review
One thought: if new is better than vintage like some people say. Why do we see old preamps, compressors, etc. in recording studios?
I've had this very thought.
My conclusion: the studio is creative and engineers use different gear to color the sound of instruments they are recording.
Playback is not creative, but rather to a lot of people, the goal is to not color the sound at all .
Just my 2cents. It's a good question.
I think the lack of tube rolling for the A10 is a deal killer. Even if you don't want to tube roll but one of your JJ tube kicks the bucket, you'll have to send it in. Too bad...
Ten years from now will parts be available. I think that really is the looming question. Its strange you can buy the Advance Paris from Germany much cheaper than a USA seller at least for now.
Why choose? I have a vintage system for vinyl (late ‘70s Kenwood receiver, Advent, Akai tape and Fluance RP) and a modern system (Denon HT receiver, KEF Q150s and Boston Acoustic surrounds and sub) for the media room. Can do stereo on both with different but excellent sound, got 7.2 surround when desired in the media room and can stream to both (have a WiiM for the vintage system, but rarely use it). Vintage has a classic old school big sound, and the media room just booms with the Q150s filling the room and the sub shaking it.
Kevin, What about the AP MyConnect 150 and 250? While I appreciate the nostalgia for vintage audio, the overinflated cost has also helped me decide to go modern, be done with it, and get on with enjoying the music.
Where advance paris made?
Thanks for the video. I feel bad about saying this, but thought you might want to know: you have a static-y fuzz sound from your mic or recording device. Also, it's nice that you tried to improve the sound with a separate voice recording, but it creates a kind of uncanny valley when there's no sound from the room you're in. Not complaining, just thought you might want to know.
Thanks for the tip!
I thought it might be my earphones, so i tried it different ways. The static is there, but the "uncanny valley" problem wasn't really an issue without earphones.
I bought a mac ma6100 in 1976. To this day, it still performs to the max, handles my HD files with ease and has never been serviced. I've been offered more that 2000.00 for 8t, but why sell.
Yes - the wood surround would add a lot to the looks of the Paris as would bright metal trim around the meters. I’ve come to accept (with your help) that a lot of the reason I love my SX1250 is because I love looking at it! I’m just another bone-head that listens with his eyes, I guess. Thanks Eric, your input is always great! It would be nice if you guys did another comparison of a new Yamaha to a vintage Yamaha or other Japanese receiver.
Sad about the tube difficulty issue. Eric what is the name of the rig you have for the Iphone.
I am liking the two lock-off cameras with the hand held.
Inquiring minds want to know what Eric was using for speakers and cartridge.
Can the bouncy meters function be turned off with a switch?
Wow, I've to say I never heard of Advance Paris before.
Deciding between the 2 would be hard ( I love my MAC4100) as I am bi-national French-American.
I guess use the 6100 as pre-amp to feed the C10 and voila! ;-)
I bet the Advance Paris must sound amazing with some Focal speakers....
That blue and red LED light combo is an eyesore 😵💫
And why did they bury the tubes? So annoying. I almost bought one, but i read that the phono stage was lackluster.
@@hurkamur1 Those tubes would've save it aesthetically
My C28 sounded great. But, always has this background rushing noise....
I’m circling the A10, but I’m concerned about quality. Are you finding them to be well built with good QC?
VIntage.
For me old stuff wins in all areas except warranty, but that isn't a big concern.
I wonder if the A10 can drive a pair of LRS+ and how it stacks up against Rotel 1572 MkII.