Introducing the McIntosh MA252

The very cool McIntosh MA252 integrated amplifier has recently been introduced and we are excited to announce that we have ours and it’s now available for demo. The MA252 integrated amplifier is the first hybrid integrated amplifier from McIntosh. The MA252 combines McIntosh’s best vacuum tube and solid-state circuit design to create a unique and high value integrated amplifier.

The MA252 features McIntosh’s Power Guard technology for people who might want to play their system very loud or if the volume is accidentally cranked up. Power Guard prevents amplifier clipping and the nasty associated distortion. It does limit dynamic range when it is active but thankfully it helps save your speakers from destruction.

McIntosh has coupled tube/solid state technology beautifully with plenty of power for most speakers. The MA252 outputs 160 watts into 4 ohms. Most speakers are 4 ohms these days. So, how loud? Most speakers produce about 89 dB SPL at 1 meter so 160 watts will produce about 111 dB at 1 meter or about 100dB in the listening areas. This is plenty loud enough for most people with most music. If the tube lights flash orange, turn it down!

Among other benefits, the tube input stage can limit nasty distortion that could be transmitted from some digital sources. Scared of tubes? These input tubes have a very long life, perhaps 10,000 hours or more. We can change them for you every few years if you wish.

With balanced/unbalanced inputs, phono input, subwoofer output, tone controls, and headphone output, the MA252 is a well-equipped integrated amplifier to build a system around.

Want bigger McIntosh? Trade up later with our generous trade up program.

The MA252 is seriously backordered. Order one in January and receive our gift of a Transparent PPC2 ($150 value!) power cord when your unit arrives.

More from McIntosh’s website HERE.