My goal with this system is not "The Absolute Sound" but "The Delicious Sound". I've learned over the years that whenever my system moves away from analytical and accurate and becomes warmer and more forgiving I end up listening to a LOT more music.
Some may find the combination of McIntosh sources + Shindo amplification + Tannoy speakers to be way too much "warmth", but for me it's just right!
System edited: Added a Shindo Cortese - what an amazingly musical amp. I am keeping the Montille because it's just too cool and nice sounding, but the Cortese is in another league. Look for my upcoming review of it.
Thank you for the nice comments. Yes, the room is small (11'x14'x9'), but it's all mine and dedicated to music and reading. My challenge was to work around the limitation of the room and make the best of it. Based on how much time I spend in it, I think I've succeeded :-).
The choice of the Tannoy speakers was critical since their concentric speakers allow for near-field listening.
I also invested in room treatment and dedicated lines.
