McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier

Name: McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier
Brand: McIntosh
SKU: McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier
Price: 4995.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

£4,995.00 inc.VAT

The MA252 Integrated Amplifier is the first hybrid integrated amplifier from McIntosh. Taking retro design cues from the legendary McIntosh MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier, the MA252 combines the best of vacuum tube and solid state circuit design to create an amplifier that’s both visually and sonically stunning.

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SKU: McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier Categories: Amplifiers, Integrated Amplifier Tag: McIntosh

McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier

The McIntosh MA252 preamplifier stage uses two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 vacuum tubes housed inside stylish protective cages; the output stage is a direct coupled solid state amplifier that delivers 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 160 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers. An all analog design, it comes with 2 unbalanced, 1 balanced and 1 Moving Magnet phono input for turntables. All 4 inputs can be given user-friendly names in order to simplify user control. Bass and treble tone controls help fine tune your music to your personal preferences. A full range subwoofer output is included for use with a powered subwoofer to further enhance low frequencies.

The McIntosh MA252 features our McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™ which are connected to advanced high current output transistors. These transistors eliminate the typical amplifier warm-up time so that the MA252 is in peak operating condition from the moment it’s turned on. A powerful control microprocessor is used for smooth system operation, along with some of the latest audio-grade circuit components that deliver the best possible sound.

Thanks to its solid state output, the MA252 is our first product containing vacuum tubes to include our patented Power Guard® technology. Power Guard monitors the output signal for signs of over driving and makes real time micro adjustments to the input signal to prevent harsh sounding clipping that could potentially damage your speakers. If Power Guard is activated, the 2 vacuum tubes connected to the affected audio channel(s) will flash an amber color; they will return to their normal green color when the clipping has stopped.

Other McIntosh technologies found in the MA252 include Sentry Monitor™, High Drive headphone amplifier and gold-plated speaker binding posts. Input selection, bass, treble, tone bypass, balance and input offset levels can be adjusted using the front panel knobs or the included remote control; all settings and input selection will be shown on the OLED display. The entire unit sits atop a beautiful polished stainless steel chassis with a classic McIntosh-styled die cast aluminium name badge attached to each side.

About McIntosh

Founded in 1949, McIntosh is known for offering distinguished home audio systems that deliver the ultimate experience in music and film. Offering products for two-channel stereo sound systems and multi-channel home theaters with surround sound, McIntosh continues to define the ultimate home audio entertainment experience for discriminating listeners around the world. Our iconic blue Watt output meter is globally recognized as a symbol of quality home audio. With a McIntosh home stereo system or home theater, listeners have the ability to create their own luxury audio experience – and truly live their music.

McIntosh products are designed and handcrafted at our Binghamton, NY factory by our dedicated employees who share a passion for music and the McIntosh heritage. Since our inception, McIntosh has been powering some of the most important moments in music history and pop culture. From President Lyndon Johnson’s inauguration speech to Woodstock to the famous Grateful Dead “Wall of Sound,” McIntosh has not only witnessed history, we have shaped it.

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Specifications

ELECTRONIC SPECIFICATIONS

Power Output per Channel

100 Watts into 8 Ohms
160 Watts into 4 Ohms
Number of Channels

2
Speaker Impedance

4 or 8 Ohms
Rated Power Band

20Hz to 20kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion

0.03%
Dynamic Headroom

1.8dB
Frequency Response +0,-0.5dB

20Hz to 20kHz
Frequency Response, +0, -3dB

10Hz to 100kHz
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Coil)

N/A
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet)

3.0mV
Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced)

0.6V/0.3V
Sensitivity (Power Amp input)

N/A
Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Coil)

N/A
Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Magnet)

80dB
Signal To Noise Ratio (High Level)

97dB
Signal To Noise Ratio (Power Amp input)

N/A
Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced)

20K/20K
Damping Factor

8 Ohms: >200
4 Ohms: >100
Maximum Output (Balanced / Unbalanced)

8V Unbalanced

CONNECTIVITY

Balanced Input

1
Unbalanced Input

2
Phono Input Moving Coil

0
Phono Input Moving Magnet

1 (fixed loading)
Upgradeable Digital Audio Module

No
Digital Coaxial Input

0
Digital Optical Input

0
Digital MCT (DIN) Input

0
Digital USB Input

0
Balanced Variable Output

0
Unbalanced Fixed Output

0
Unbalanced Variable Output

0
Headphone Output

1/4″ High Drive
Subwoofer Output

1 (mono)
AM/FM Tuner option

No
Home Theater PassThru

No
Unbalanced Analog Connector Type

Standard
Speaker Binding Post Type

Standard
Service Port

0

DIGITAL AUDIO SPECIFICATIONS

Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) Type

N/A
Digital Coaxial Input Sample Rate

N/A
Digital Optical Input Sample Rate

N/A
Digital MCT (DIN) Input Sample Rate

N/A
Digital USB Input Sample Rate

N/A

CONTROL

Tone Controls

Bass and Treble
Tone Bypass and Input Assign

Yes
RS232 Control Input

No
Power Control Output

1
Rear Panel Data Port

1
Rear Panel IR Sensor Input

No
Input Level Match

Yes

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Vacuum Tube or Solid State

Preamplifier: Vacuum Tube
Power Amplifier: Solid State
Output Type

Direct Coupled
Output Meters

No
Dual Layer Chassis

Yes
Chassis Finish

Polished stainless steel
McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™

Yes
Power Requirement

120V 50/60Hz, 3.7A
Standby Power Requirement

<0.5 Watts

WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS

Dimensions (W x H x D)

12″ (30.5cm) x 7-5/8″ (19.4cm) x 18″ (45.7cm)
Weight

28 lbs (12.7 kg)
Shipping Weight

37 lbs (16.8 kg)

Reviews

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Be the first to review “McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier”

Melvyn Carter

16:17 08 Apr 19

Fantastic service from an enthusiastic and very knowledgable team. The fitting was carried out expertly, efficiently and the fitters cleaned up immaculately. Highly recommended. I am delighted in all respects.

Jeff Vincent

16:10 20 Mar 19

I ordered some speaker stands which turned out to be incompatible with my existing speakers so they were returned. The speedy turn around and service provided by Alex at Soundstage was faultless. I thoroughly recommend Soundstage Hi-Fi for their help and service.

Edward Rising

16:57 27 Dec 18

Brilliant shop with incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff. Over the years they have fitted my home entertainment system and I have returned to buy smaller items too. They are always helpful and work with you to find the right equipment for your budget and space. Highly recommend!

Steve Clarke

14:55 08 Mar 19

Alex of Soundstage did a great job in fulfilling my order for a new Rega Brio Amp which was couriered to me within 48 hours. He offered very helpful advise before I decided to go ahead with the purchase as I was sceptical whether the Brio could bring out something a bit extra in the music compared with my existing Cyrus Amp. So far I am happy with the 'out of the box' sound of the Brio but anticipate that I will get that bit extra from it when the run-in period is complete. These guys at Soundstage know their stuff when it comes to Hi-Fi and stock a cracking range of gear . Highly Recommended.

Winsome Losesome

12:39 31 Dec 18

Superb service from this company. Communication, knowledge and and post sales service outstanding. Clearly these people care a lot about personal service which is a rare commodity theses days. Excellent!

Alexi Pittalis

11:42 02 May 19

The team were very efficient and have a true passion for Hi-Fi, assisting with advice and service. Very good at explaining how everything works to a non-techy person like myself. Thanks again Guys!

Adam Harland

10:28 22 May 19

What a refreshing experience......friendly staff, very knowledgeable and so enthusiastic about sound and vision, just what I needed. I didn't feel over sold, just well catered for and glad I found these guys after some previously bad experiences elsewhere

Pete Morrish

08:17 04 Jun 19

Great experience buying from Soundstage. Hadn't used them before, but was on the hunt for Chord gear (TT2 and M Scaler), so took the plunge with them. There was a wait for the units, as they were selling faster than the manufacturer could make them, but Alex at Soundstage kept me up to date the whole way through. He even sorted out a loaner Hugo 2 for me whilst waiting on the TT2 to turn up. Zero hassle, great service, very friendly, definitely recommended.

Steven Immelman

11:43 06 Jun 19

Exceptional knowledge and service; Alex in particular was fantastic. My B&W 803 D3's were shipped in double quick time - to Portugal. I cannot praise Soundstage enough.

Jimmy Campbell

15:04 21 Jun 19

I could not recommend Soundstage high enough. I have dealt with Soundstage on a few occasions now and will continue to go to them for advice of on hi-fi equipment and upgrades when I am able. The service is thorough, personable, and professional. Not being a tech head myself can leave you feeling a little lost in the world of Hi-fi, however Dean and boys convey there expertise and knowledge in such a manner as to put you at ease when exploring the vast intricacies of Hi-fi. All my questions were answered in a manner that was easily digestible and clear, making my decisions informed with clarity. There is no 'hard sale' but an eagerness to meet your individual needs and requirements, achieved by Soundstage truly listening to you as the customer. A personable service that will entice me back again and again. Thank you Soundstage! Could not be happier with my system and your guidance! Great experience from demo to instalment!

Robert Mann

15:32 17 Jul 19

This is a business which focuses on combining a brilliant customer service with excellent product knowledge. The atmosphere is very relaxed without any hint of overselling. You really get a feeling that the business is based on long term costumer enjoyment rather than short term profit margin. Whilst listening to the Linn LP12 turntable the conversation turned to a discussion on the therapeutic benefits of music. How can you better that?

Stephen Elston

12:39 25 Aug 19

I came, I heard, I concurred. This re-discovered jewel in Heddon Court Parade is more conspicuous of late with a slightly louder shop front and an enticing display of equipment within. It may be modest in size but it caters for the grandest ambition. And it is accessible; being within a short walk of Cockfosters underground station or, in my case, the occasional car journey from home with parking spaces alongside or, better still, permission to rest a bike on their wood laminate floor... it doesn’t look out of place: and these are accommodating hosts. Somehow, there is also room for the hardware, including my own vintage Linn Sondek connected to serious components for demonstration after restoration. It doesn’t sound 40 years old now… my ears tell me it was built today: and it shines in every way. An experience beyond expectation can only have been facilitated by a skilled and dedicated craftsman behind the scenes -- a turntable Surgeon who sat with me beforehand to discuss the forthcoming operation in tones of reassurance and with practical answers to every question. Meanwhile, the boss of the shop went out to fetch me a coffee. Everyone at Soundstage is like that. In fact their enthusiasm, knowledge and dedication are contagious. Customers become part of the event; pointing you in a certain direction or extending a welcome while you wait. Not that you are neglected or (on the other side of the record) that you feel under pressure. And, talking of music, don’t be surprised if you (or Soundstage) discover something new to enjoy!

Aditya Chakrabortty

20:36 14 Sep 19

A small family-run business, where everyone really cares about what they do. Even though I am far from Dean's biggest-spending customer, he took the time and trouble to think about what would work best for my family and me – and then put real care and attention into making everything look and sound as good as possible. The result is a system that works so well in a difficult room and which has given everyone a lot of pleasure. In short, highly recommended.

Simon Farrar

16:30 25 Sep 19

Very Happy. Great family run business with a very personable and friendly vibe. Extremely knowledgeable, helpful and accommodating. Also have a fantastic taste in music which helps! I've been to a lot of HiFi dealers and this is definitely my favourite for service, staff and conversation. On top of which always inviting to evenings of music showings with food and wine. The personal touch goes a long way. Look no further if you're into High Fidelity sound and an enjoyable experience! Awesome folks. Look forward to dealing with again in the future. Keep up the good work!! P.S Loving my Naim system!!! :)

claire underdown

22:58 27 Sep 19

I’ve recently purchased a Rega P1 from Dean at Soundstage ; my first turntable for many years. The delivery was prompt but some damage had occurred in transit, despite the excellent packaging. I contacted Dean by email and was immediately reassured he would help. Without hesitation, Dean told me a new turntable would be shipped to me the next day and we discussed the arrangement for returning the damaged item. Remarkably, although I’d bought a refurbished item, Dean immediately offered me a brand new replacement. I think this was above and beyond -done with great professionalism and Dean’s commitment to great customer service was evident with every word. I would whole heartedly recommend the company following this and would certainly look there first for any item I am considering. ?

Denise Tanner

09:48 13 Oct 19

Review by Dr Peter Tanner Soundstage is much more than a hi Fi store. I’ve just bought a Linn Sondek LP12 from Soundstage and was most impressed by the professional and personal service provided by Dean and Alex. The service includes sound advice and guidance and I was kindly invited to spend a day watching the turntable being expertly assembled by Alan. They provide a comprehensive after sales service which is a bit like being in a private club. I would recommend Soundstage without hesitation.

A C

21:35 30 Oct 19

Dean was incredibly helpful and honest with his advice in choosing a turntable (of which I knew nothing about them!) as a surprise gift. Delivery was quick and the item packaged perfectly. Dean offered at point of sale to give any help/advice once the gift was opened and also reiterated this in a handwritten note inside the package. Brilliant service. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Soundstage.

Philip Schofield

15:29 12 Nov 19

I have just had my Linn LP12 turntable serviced and given a Cirkus upgrade, plus new stylus, by Alan. I have been really impressed by the result. The Turntable looks new and sounds absolutely terrific. Alan really cares about the Linn turntables, and was full of good advice. I followed his recommendations (within a budget, of course) and can now look forward to even better sounding music. Thanks also to Alex who co-ordinated things.

Jon Andrews

11:11 11 Jan 20

I recently bought a full replacement for my existing separates from Dean and Alex at Soundstage. I cannot remember the last time I had so much joy in buying something from such a caring, knowledgable friendly and customer oriented business. Although only a small family business Soundstage could branch out into giving lessons to many other organisations in customer service and professionalism.

Paul Thompson

20:52 17 Jan 20

Dean and his team are amazing. They really care about what they do and give great advice. The care they took installing my turntable was really impressive and as a result it sounds astonishing.

Rodney Stanford

21:31 03 Oct 19

I just bought a Michell Tecno Dec Turntable From Dean and his team @ Soundstage Fantastic from my first phone call to them right to my delivery and my set up the help they gave me was amazing i would buy from you again and again well done to all of you there for you care with me as a Customer .Rod Stanford

Esther Yap

10:31 06 Jul 18

We enjoyed overall experience buying our new hi-fi system from Soundstage. Dean has been really helpful, and knowledgeable in assisting us from the very beginning in selecting the systems, amplifier, cable, etc to coming and have our system set up by him and Eds. We really enjoy our Bowers & Wilkins hi-fi and couldn’t recommend highly enough, and hopefully one day when we need to have it upgrade, we come back again!

Howard Graff

17:41 01 Jun 20

Dean and Alex have improved my life. Their service in helping me to transition from a 20-year old hifi setup to my new stack has been exceptional. Okay, so I was completely taken in by their kind offer to lend me some amazing hifi equipment...but I enjoyed the whole process of getting hooked. I'm a hugely happy customer and can't recommend them strongly enough.

Joe Sture

17:39 28 May 20

Dean has provided a fantastic service, with fast delivery supplying over a long distance. The packaging was done professional and communication about delivery was an example to many larger organisations. What was particulary nice was Dean had hand written a note of thanks and inserted into the box. In summary please have no hesitation in asking Dean for help as you will get the best advice, best service and best price.

Paul Baker

11:42 27 May 20

I am really delighted to have discovered this purveyor of fine Hi-Fi and Home Cinema Equipment. An exceptionally dedicated team, providing sound advice and service of the very highest order - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Studio EIGHT

12:28 20 Oct 21

Ordered a set of ATC wall-mount speakers from Soundstage as they were the first to respond and the best on price. I had gone out to 4 suppliers in general. They gave me a lead time and emailed two weeks before that to say they had received and mailed them out already. Couriers sent tracking number straight through, all on next day delivery. Comms were really good. I'm busy, and not a phone guy so appreciate straight-talking, concise email comms when purchasing such things. Very happy with the service. A perfectly simple transaction. Will use these guys again for sure. M LEWIS

Alan Osborn

08:48 06 Oct 21

I took a deck there for a repair but ended up buying a new Linn Deck as my one was very old! Alex was most helpful throughout the purchase and the demonstration of the decks in my price range, I would not hesitate in recommending Soundstage!

Ian Hutchin

11:37 24 Apr 21

Fantastic service from what was only a smalll purchase that other retail chains would not hardly bother with. From the first phone inquire to the shop visit Alex and Dean made every effort to help in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere

Harpal Matharoo

09:59 06 Aug 21

Excellent service. Ordered a new cartridge for Rega P9....arrived in less than 24hrs as described. No traumas! Well done Sounstage....

18:44 08 Jul 21

I rarely leave reviews but a company like Soundstage deserves to be recognised and recommended. From the moment I entered the store, I was greeted by very friendly, helpful and professional staff (Dean and Alex). Price is important but I believe that the service you receive both before and after sales, is just as important. Being able to see, hear and feel the product before you purchase, alongside the immediate help and advice you get from a physical person (staff) is an experience you just can’t get online. This is why I will be coming back to Soundstage for all my ATC (and other hifi) products.

McIntosh MA252 2 Channel Integrated Amplifier