Since I initially posted here a few years ago, I made plenty of changes and I cleaned it up a bit. This is my main system combining pure 2-channel and surround sound when needed. The MC-601 monoblocks drive the XRT-28's with ease. I have tried a few McIntosh preamps (SS and Tube) and have settled on the C45. A recent addition of the XLS-12 subwoofer gave the system a little more depth on the lower end and I'm very happy with the result. I play all types of music, mainly classic rock, 80's pop and jazz. For surround, two MC-7106's control all my surround speakers. The only piece I'm still looking for is a McIntosh MLD 7020 to complete my collection. If you have one for sale, please contact me.
Thank you for sharing your system, again. The system you've assembled is a work of art and I am sure it has been the source of many, many hours of audio bliss. I love the sound of the C-45 in my 2.1 channel system and I wonder if you are using the trim button to control the bass output for the xls-112 in your multichannel setup or are you using the dsp from the Yamaha? I have found that utilizing the trim on the c-45 works well with my JL Audio sub since it has no remote volume. Also, what interconnects and speaker cables have worked for you?