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!
Very nice review! I have the Montille myself, and have always lusted after the Cortese and Sandringhams also. Just curious, how wide apart are the speakers? they seem very close in the picture?