MCINTOSH MA252 HYBRID AMPLIFIER

McIntosh has released what it says is its first-ever hybrid integrated amplifier. The new McIntosh MA252 uses two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 valves in its preamplifier stage and high-power output transistors in its output stage. It is rated to deliver 100-watts per channel into 8 loads and 160-watts per channel into 4 loads.

Unlike many recent amplifier designs, which feature integrated DACs, the MA252 is all-analog with two unbalanced line-level inputs, one balanced input and a phono input (MM), all of which can be adjusted for offset level to ensure consistent volume when switching from one input to another. ‘ McIntosh has taken a design lead from the legendary MC275 to produce an integrated amplifier that incorporates the best of both the solid state and vacuum tube worlds,’ said Philip Sawyer, of Synergy AudioVisual, which distributes McIntosh in Australia. ‘ To release a 100-watt amplifier that is completely hand made in the USA at this price point is wonderful.’

The high-current transistors in the output circuitry are monitored by McIntosh’s patented ‘Power Guard’ circuitry which monitors the output signal for signs of overdriving and makes real time micro adjustments to the input signal to prevent harsh-sounding clipping that could potentially damage your speakers.

The MA252 has a separate headphone amplifier and all settings and input selections are shown on the front-panel OLED display. Available now the McIntosh MA252 sells for $6,995 (RRP). For further information, please contact Synergy Audio Visual on (03) 9459 7474 or visit www.synergyaudio.com