Is McIntosh WORTH THE MONEY? McIntosh Review!! MAC7200 Stereo Receiver

✅ 🛒 McIntosh 7200: bit.ly/3Gm2z86
✅ 🙏 to KEEPS for sponsoring this video! Head to keeps.com/AndrewRobinson to get 50% off your first Keeps order.
✅ CLICK SHOW MORE ⬇️ for how we tested the McIntosh + comparable amps/receivers
► SHOP THE MCINTOSH MAC7200 STEREO RECEIVER
▹▹ McIntosh MAC 7200: bit.ly/3Gm2z86
► TESTING THE MCINTOSH STEREO RECEIVER
POWER
Crown XLS DriveCore: bit.ly/CXLS1502
SPEAKERS
Focal Aria K2: bit.ly/3nQWOZF
Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G: bit.ly/31SXLby, amzn.to/3GCjaF1
Klipsch Forte IV: bit.ly/3komedS, amzn.to/2PggXtz
Klipsch Heresy IV: amzn.to/3oF1i44, bit.ly/35GRnlQ
SUBWOOFER:
Klipsch: bit.ly/3q44lV7, amzn.to/3248Neh
TURNTABLES
Dual 618Q: bit.ly/3q0QZtQ
Audio Technica 140XP: amzn.to/33OfgXO, bit.ly/38TerQ2
Ortofon LVB: amzn.to/3zcPqKM
OTHER SOURCES
Sony 85” TV: bit.ly/3uaJTn5, amzn.to/3zFCCN1
Apple TV 4K: amzn.to/3em0YUp
MOVIES - GAMING - MUSIC
Portishead, Dummy: amzn.to/34K9zLV
Royksopp, AM: amzn.to/3AaE23U
Goo Goo Dolls: amzn.to/3nkbzn9
Abe Rounds: amzn.to/3EN9Tcl
GoGo Penguin: amzn.to/3ncM1pT
► COMPARABLE AMPLIFIERS
Canor Ai 1.10: bit.ly/3w2o9t8
Musical Fidelity M8xi: amzn.to/3aqqaKm
Technics R1000: bit.ly/38Wlt7p
Yamaha 3200: bit.ly/3sxdwgf, amzn.to/32mOZQa
Audiolab 6000A Play: bit.ly/3G5KATV, amzn.to/398qSrJ
Decware Zen: bit.ly/3iJbw1D
► MORE FROM MCINTOSH
RS250 Wireless Stereo System: bit.ly/3Fz4g1i
RS150 Wireless Loudspeakers: bit.ly/3Ab8WsW
MB50 Streaming Music Player: bit.ly/3fEzZDI
MA5300 Integrated Amplifier: bit.ly/3GKPLJc
MXA80 Stereo Integrated System: bit.ly/33Sq0rT
MCD350 SACD/CD Player: bit.ly/33PcBk2
► WHAT'S IN THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR A-CAMERA SHOTS?
SPEAKERS: bit.ly/3k5vovR
SPEAKER STANDS: bit.ly/3lqYtny, amzn.to/3DD0UJX
TV: bit.ly/3uaJTn5, amzn.to/3zFCCN1
HIFI RACK: bit.ly/3yrPUgi, bit.ly/ssvlrack
BENCH: amzn.to/3lIxJ0Z, amzn.to/2VSx9EO, amzn.to/3lDgKNx
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
LEATHER OTTOMAN CUBES: amzn.to/3cfcfF1
► MCINTOSH REVIEW - MAC7200 STEREO RECEIVER
I know you guys are excited for this one! After all, finding a McIntosh review on KZbin is rare. We set out to answer the question "is McIntosh worth the money" and HiFi praise it receives from the audiophile community. We tested the MAC7200 performance with Monitor Audio, Klipsch and Focal speakers and compared the McIntosh stereo system to other high end audio amplifiers to find out if McIntosh is the best amplifier!
INTRO: 00:00
MCINTOSH MAC7200 SPECS: 01:41
MCINTOSH DA1 VS DA2 MODULE: 02:56
MCINTOSH TUNER: 03:17
MCINTOSH AMPLIFIER DESIGN: 03:48
HIFI EQUIPMENT TO USE WITH MCINTOSH AMPS: 04:48
MCINTOSH MAC7200 SOUND QUALITY: 05:57
MCINTOSH 7200 ISSUES: 10:20
MCINTOSH VS TECHNICS R1000: 11:50
MCINTOSH 7200 VS MUSICAL FIDELITY M8XI: 12:40
MCINTOSH VS CANOR: 13:19
CONCLUSION: 14:09
KRISTI'S TAKE: 14:43
SIGN OFF: 22:33
★ MORE ANDREW ROBINSON REVIEWS
➔ Canor Tube Amplifier Review: • BEST Tube AMP in 2021?...
➔ Technics R1000 Integrated Amplifier Review: • NEW TECHNICS AMPLIFIER...
➔ Musical Fidelity M8xi Review: • HiFi’s Best Kept SECRE...
➔ Yamaha 3200 Review: • Just How GOOD? - Yamah...
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
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TV STAND: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
SPEAKER STANDS: bit.ly/2VOs7p3, bit.ly/SolidAA
HIFI RACK: bit.ly/3yrPUgi, bit.ly/ssvlrack
BENCH: amzn.to/3lIxJ0Z, amzn.to/2VSx9EO, amzn.to/3lDgKNx
LEATHER CHAIR & SOFA: bit.ly/NirvanaChr // bit.ly/2HI6cMH
EAMES REPLICA CHAIR: amzn.to/39mcn2Y
LEATHER OTTOMAN CUBES: amzn.to/3cfcfF1
EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/ARdecor
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#mcintosh #hifi #homeaudio

[@robinsonbrand]

🔥Thanks to Keeps for supporting the channel! For more info: keeps.com/AndrewRobinson ✅ *GET THE MAC HERE: **bit.ly/3Gm2z86* ★ *QOTD: What’s the best McIntosh amp ever made? Is the brand deserving of its audiophile praise?* ★ *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*

[@feedbackelectronics]

♥️💝💘👍💘💝♥️ 🔊India🇮🇳Kerala🔊

[@pierre-philippejulien6298]

I know McIntosh is well known for quality and their tube amps . I just ordered the ma252 , this will be my first Mac . Hopefully it’ll will match my Bowers and Wilkins 702 s2 .

[@pierre-philippejulien6298]

Andrew , will you pair this amp with the 702 s2 signature? I know those are very difficult speaker and having the right amp to create synergy is a must.

[@chrisblock6697]

MC3500 (original) - just because of its Woodstock heritage. The Mac Amp Jerry Garcia used (MC2300) and the Grateful Dead used for the Wall of Sound comes in a close second.

[@KristiWright]

@@pierre-philippejulien6298 Not Andrew but this amp would likely a great pairing. As for the MA252, not sure that would be a good pairing based on the power/ohm performance.

[@grandmasteraj855]

Imagine buying this thing to LISTEN TO FM RADIO.

[@Darrylizer1]

Your comment made me laugh. I've been thinking that very thing. I'd prefer the MA7200 integrated amp myself as I do no radio listening outside of my car.

[@stevenmcbride2776]

Nice equipment out there now,just need some musicians making some music,get tired of listening to old music

[@roderickstevens6891]

Imagine buying this beast to listen to anything,oh mummy yes,yes,yes!

[@CL-yp1bs]

I almost cried when I heard FM radio!

[@alexsajkovic9403]

Yes ‼️ 🎶📺 currently using Bluesound NODE thru McIntosh MC162 for local KPOO KALW KALX. 7200 will be much better than iNet... Then M10v2 for Tidal etc. 📺🎸😜🙋

[@dont4450]

I have a Macintosh Ma6100 amp bought in 1974 for 649.00. It is still in daily use today, handles high resolution music files with ease, and HAS NEVER BEEN SERVICED. YES, MACS ARE WORTH EVERY PENNY

[@marcsmithsonian9773]

So is 1978 my grandmother $99 stereo from Sears.

[@marcsmithsonian9773]

You dond judge Chevy for what they make in 70's.

[@electrolytics]

Oh really? An amp you bought in 1974 handles Hi-Res music files? That's interesting.....

[@dont4450]

@@electrolytics easily. I hook up my astell&kern kann alpha to it and it's pure joy.

[@pf5658]

I could care less about all the negative comments about McIntosh. I love my McIntosh system and, “ You’ll have tear it away from my cold dead hands.” Best money I’ve ever spent.

[@ChickenPermissionOG]

bias you will not hear the difference between a mac and cheaper good amp unless you are a dog. Spending money on things you physically can not hear is a waste.

[@pf5658]

@@ChickenPermissionOG Your opinion. It’s not a waste when one spends their hard earned money on something they wanted and enjoy on a daily basis.Besides I said I love my McIntosh system. Never made any claim as to what brand of amps sounds better or don’t.

[@ChickenPermissionOG]

@@pf5658 never said they could spend their money on things they can not hear but go ahead and put more words in my mouth. Never said you did.

[@mzondi1970]

I've been wanting one forever. Regardless of what people say sound is very subjective people that love Macintosh and the way they sound you're not going 2 Change on mind. I haven't heard a product better sounding at the price range the only things I've ever heard better is if you get into something like a very high amp like one of the old Mark Levinson or D'Agostino. I honestly don't hold this guy's opinions very highly anyway he also didn't like the way my Bowers and Wilkins sound either

[@ChickenPermissionOG]

@@mzondi1970 no clue who you even are. You want to was money on circuitry that you can not physically hear more power to you, but you know that old saying a fool and their money.

[@john32son]

The first time I heard a Macintosh system, I knew I would own one someday. Years later, my music room has two Mc275's, a C2700 and a MT5. (I recently sold my MR88. Great product, but I didn't use it much). The joy that this system gives me is hard to explain.

[@arobinson22833]

Hi Andrew, as a proud owner of the MAC7200 I was happy and surprised to see your review of McIntosh equipment. Over the 40 years that been into audio equipment I’ve owned all types of high end (Audio Research, Bryston, Conrad Johnson, Krell, Meridian, Peachtree Audio, and several others) amplifiers. However, I can truly say that the MAC7200 is the best sounding Integrated Amplifier that I’ve ever owned. Like you I also own the Klipsch Forte IV and the MAC7200 takes their sound to another level. But it wasn’t until last night when I decided to hook up the MAC7200 to an older pair Martin Logan’s that I realized it’s a very special piece of audio equipment!!! Yes the MAC7200 is big/heavy and expensive but it’s worth every penny. Also, the less expensive MA5300 is great sounding Integrated Amplifier. Lastly, McIntosh is probably the only audio equipment that holds its value and in some cases appreciates over the years. Thanks again for you and Kristi’s great reviews. Anthony

[@timkampmann3423]

Mr. Robinson is one of the best reviewers on YOU TUBE . His easy going style with a way of reporting the information one wants in a product. So glad I found the channel .. .

[@robinsonbrand]

Thank you so much Tim. We're glad you found us too!

[@markwilliford7471]

Also, regarding the QOTD, I am a Mac owner, and have also owned Sansui and two different NAD receiver/ integrated amps. The McIntosh Amps I’ve owned are the 70’s MC2100 - passed down to me from my Uncle, passed down from me to my son, and still “commanding woofers” like a mini substation. Next for me came the MC352. This was a late 90’s amp that was purchased NOS in 2010. It was more refined than the 2100, and it too was a sound revolution for my system. I’m now running an MC462 and it seemingly combines the best qualities of both predecessor amps. It has scary-articulate bass, fantastic clarity, and extremely present mids. No regrets - at age 60, this may be my last amp. Is it worth the money? Clearly, it is not at face value the champion of sound quality per dollar spent. Exaggerating the point, the first NAD I owned - the 3020 - purchased for $220 in 1980 probably can’t be beat for value. But going to the other end of the scale, the MC462 just takes your sound enjoyment to another level. Something to consider with McIntosh, that even elevates it above many other high-end brands, is resale value. If you buy Mac and later decide you don’t like it fir some reason, or more likely, want to move on up in the line, you will recover a much more substantial percentage of your initial investment than you will with most other brands. Also, it is built to last generations (this applies to McIntosh with the stainless steel bases - less so to units with black painted metal bases) and does in fact last generations - usefully.

[@scottmeyer6005]

Exactly!! Amen brother!

[@nateb9768]

My grandfather bought a used McIntosh system in either the late 60’s or early 70’s. That baby works like a charm and hasn’t been sent in ever.

[@GrindCityGuitars]

I think an interesting comparison to the 7200 would be the Hegel H390. 250 wpc of good clean power, inky black background, well dampened bass, killer DAC, etc.

[@xorbitman]

Does it weigh 100 lbs though?!

[@GrindCityGuitars]

@@xorbitman Ha! The H390 is a respectable 44 lbs.

[@jamesnelson8549]

Hi, ever look inside a Hegel? It is a living nightmare the way that everything is crammed in the box!!! Sounds good yes, quality not so much!

[@freddymcculloch6811]

I'm wondering the same thing. I cant decide on the h390 or the 7200.

[@Lexington365]

I really should watch this videos to the end. Did Kristi really suggest adding bluetooth to a $7500 McIntosh amplifier? That would be like Tesla adding a hole in the floor of their cars so you could drive them like Fred Flintstone

[@richardramorino3319]

It never occurred to me that some people wouldn't like the looks of these. The green lettering, blue meters, and chrome highlighted knobs are by far the most iconic look in audio. That look has been around almost as long as a Porsche 356/911.

[@PG-rr8lb]

The best looking Amps on the market...let's not try to understand women. :-)

[@papaquonis]

I don’t recall ever seeing McIntosh products before I started watching these types of KZbin videos, so I also have no nostalgia for the brand at all. I don’t know if they just weren’t a thing here in Europe? But as good as it may be technically, I don’t think I’ll ever like their design language at all. Most definitely not for me.

[@johnpetrakis379]

Well yeah, everybody wants their audio stuff to look pretty, but at some point it becomes "audio jewelry" and that's just damn silly. MAC always hit me like †hat. My first commnent audio for "dentists" is what the Mgr. of Graham Electronics in Glendale Mall, in Idpls. Ind called it in the early 70's, He had more respect for vintage Marantz gear.

[@johnpetrakis379]

Something I forgot to add way back, MAC used to have"clinics" where you bring your gear in and get it tested. The MAC engineers ware amazed at a 50 watt Kenwood integrated for 250.00 measured so great, as good as any MAC!!

[@scottdecarlo8667]

I look at McIntosh audio equipment in the same light that I look at the Porsche 911. Aside from both being out of my price range, they are both what I want. Are there better for the money? Subjectively, yes. But, I know both the McIntosh and the Porsche 911 will be sublime because they are remarkable examples of their type and they are what I want.

[@1calebparker]

Just wanted to say I really appreciate this channel and all the information you put into each video. Helped me pick out my first turntable and a stereo setup for it. Knew nothing about the world of audio when I started watching. Thanks!

[@robinsonbrand]

Thank you, Caleb. Your comment really means the world to us.

[@mikevalentinas6766]

Personally I think bluetooth cheapens a product and HDMI is for AV use only. I have never expected nor wanted any of my two channel gear to have it. The HT bypass is a nice feature for those who want to integrate their 2 channel and multi channel systems without adding a bunch of extra circuitry to the McIntosh

[@xorbitman]

Audio snob...

[@goldenharborstudios7180]

@@xorbitman nah he has a point. Bluetooth is already outdated LE Bluetooth is out now & that shod take over shortly.

[@Billfish57]

I been a Mac lover for 30-40 years. I finally got my dream set up 20 years ago after many different systems, I will never change a thing now except for new processors some day. Keep in mind it's a system and everything has to work together to get the most perfect sound. Also keep in mind one big thing, when the day comes to sell some of your Mac gear for whatever reason, you will be very happy at how much more it's worth than any other brand of the same size and age. Quality gear made in American is still worth a lot. MC-600 amp - MX-152 - Oppo 4K BRP 7ch. processor - Mac Academy 360's, and surrounds. Wire World cables and wires everywhere really made a big difference. All my neighbors listen to Steely Dan... Whether they want to or not.

[@robertm.5816]

I have owned the 7200 for about 2 years, and everytime I listen to it is a treat to my ears, it's everything you you said it is in your review and more, couldn't be happier, I also own a tube amp and I almost couldn't tell the difference when comparing the warm tube sound, unbelievable for a SS system, I don't see myself parting ways with this amp, highly recommended to anyone on the fence about whether to buy it or not!

[@robust98]

To Kristi, Mcintosh CANNOT be lighter and smaller because ALL Mcintosh Amps come with THREE ( x 3) huge transformers and at least 2 x large heatsink for each of the final stage output amplifier modules. The main transformer is for the AC to DC power conversion and the other two transformers are for Left and Right channels (AUTOFORMERS). The main AC/DC transformer guarantees sufficient if not surplus amperage draw from 6 or 12 transistors (depending on wattage) per channel. For instance, the MC602 comes with 2 x paralleled 12 transistors for a total of 24 transistors (push/pull - Class A/B) per channel and outputs 600 watt per channel (2~8 ohms) to accommodate higher amperage draw from 4~2 ohm speakers. That's a whopping 600 + 600 watts per channel at the final stage! The output power signal of one channel is then wired to the Autoformer which allows impedance matching of various impedance (2~8 Ohms) speakers with the amp. Unlike other amps, the output stays at 600 watt per channel disregarding the speaker impedance. I have been using Mcintosh amps since 1990's and it is a blessing that until today Mcintosh still persists in using proprietory thick wire gauge transformers and autoformers. If Mcintosh ever decides to give up on its Class A/B amplification and downgrade its heritage to Class D, that's the time when you will see smaller and lighter amps but until then we are blessed with its heritage. Just a quick note, I've completed the full modification on two of my Mcintosh amp (MC7300 and MC602) and got to tell you, disregarding the cost, the only parts that cannot be sourced and replaced are the main transformer and the L/R channel autoformer. Even Mcintosh and Audio Classics don't stock them any longer. The rest of the parts were purchased from Taiwan local vintage parts collectors including (Motorola/Toshiba/Sanyo) transistors that were made in the 90's. For all that said, the main AC transformer and L/R autoformers are the heart of Mcintosh, without these heavy duty transformers, Mcintosh is just another transistor amplifier manufacturer like Sony, Denon, Pioneer etc. (If you know how transistor amps works, you will understand what I'm talking about.)

[@195516Z]

Just discovered your channel. Very nice production value. Very approachable manner of explaining the tech to someone like me.

[@skyengeh]

Yes McIntosh make great amps, but for half the price you can get the very capable, high damping factor, Hegel 390 which will certainly match the Mac for speaker driving ability. I thought that would be a telling comparison.

[@FactbasedReality0421]

Let's face it. It's a quality brand for people who have money. Probably 75% love it and can afford it/justify it and 25% want bragging rights. All high end brands are like this. I wanted it when I was 14. At 58, I can easily afford it, but now think it is a vanity buy, as I cannot detect the difference other than "feel". Midwest practical in me would rather get really good at much less cost..... For anyone mature, pass no judgement, buy what you can afford and what makes YOU happy. If you can hear the difference, truly hear it, you are gifted. For the rest of us, buy what sounds good for the buck, spend the remaining on other hobbies.....

[@SuppressiveSquirrel]

Agree. It’s more of a legacy status piece now and Gen Z etc couldn’t give a shit less about McIntosh. It’s like a Rolex. Classic time piece but a digital watch doesn’t need to be wound or rotated and keeps more accurate time than the Rolex. Same with McIntosh. There’s better for cheaper.

[@gavriushka]

Another great review! Love the amp, one day it’ll make its way into my system one way or another. Great job guys! Wishing you an awesome day!

[@chrisdelong2932]

McIntosh has built a well loved brand because they are not simply hi-fi equipment. They are a work of art, a piece of decorative furniture, a conversation piece. A brand does not get to where McIntosh is without producing extremely high quality gear, and I mean a history of top notch gear. I agree, when you spend between 3 & 9 thousand dollars, you’re splitting hairs in the difference between them. With all that said, I would choose the McIntosh over all of the others because of the output meters, because of the blue & green backlight, the beautiful heat sinks along the side and on the rear, as I said, a work of art. You can’t go wrong with a McIntosh. Thanks for a really enthusiastic and well rounded review. We thoroughly enjoyed it. MAC7200, now 8000u$, 9000u$ with the DA option. Keep up the good work.

[@9thstreetbrandt]

Just got a MC2105 at an estate sale, running it through the preamp puts on the T778(bought after seeing your review:). That McIntosh sound is the GOAT, especially with Dirac room correction! I’m a mac stan for life

[@Winterfell1066]

I have the Mac 7200 and it is fantastic. I play vinyl on it with a VPI prime turntable through mid 80s Klipschorns with rebuilt crossovers. Vinyl + McIntosh + K Horns = Magical

[@official.djanthonyb]

Excellent review as always Andrew and Kristi! more power to the channel🤙

[@rodrogers7553]

Thank you SO VERY MUCH for doing this review. I have long wanted to hear your opinion on McIntosh. Well done!!

[@billsmith8339]

I don't own any McIntosh equipment, but when my wife goes to the mall, I always go over to the Best Buy nearby to listen to whatever Mac they have with the B&W 803 D4 speakers. I like just about any music, but listening to Ella or Miles or even Lady Gaga is just about as good as anything as you can imagine. Once in a while, I'll even listen to some opera recording just to hear the violas and french horns ... I don't consider myself an "audiophile" because I really can't afford it, but I have always picked my speakers using a recording with a piano. It seems to me that a piano is just about the hardest music to replicate, and the closer to a piano sound a speaker can make, the better the speaker. And it always comes down to spending $20k+ for those B&W speakers, or staying married HAHA

[@jamesnelson8549]

McIntosh is absolutely worth it!!! Expensive yes!!! What you get is engineering at the highest of levels! Style is amazing & built in house USA!

[@robertgierschick6695]

Very well thought-out review. Congrats!

[@gregorytrane7828]

Your analysis of the McIntosh receiver was spot on! I've owned various ones and still do while upgrading for newer models of Mac equiptment for the last 35 years. I've owned other high end amps but none satisfied me long term like the McIntosh. I may change speakers and other equiptment from time to time but as long as I live, McIntosh will be my amp of choice. Good review as always.

[@stephendigiovanni3854]

I started selling McIntosh in the late 80's. When I first heard it, I knew I wanted to buy one and bought the 7280 receiver. THIRTY years after buying it, McIntosh ran a special and gave me full MSRP on a trade in. I now own the MA 7900 integrated amp which is spectacular. McIntosh does not pay publications to tout their products which is one of the reasons it gets panned by a few "audiophiles". I'll put any MAC amp up against anything within double it's price.

[@melchior-chr.v.brincken8006]

There are two different positions: a) "how do I get the best sound for the least money?" , and b) "I have money to burn, what is the nicest I can get for it?" If the answer is a) get a handwired tubeamp with autobias, if the answer is b) get Mcintosh gear

[@jamesdavid7782]

In a world of me-too asthetics, McIntosh's beautiful classic design is still a breath of fresh air after all these years.

[@jeremyr722]

Never heard a Mac, so I’ll just comment to help your channel with the algorithm. You guys are great, it’s always a highlight of the day when I see your videos come up.

[@PatrickGoddard]

So appreciate the thoughtful reviews you guys do. I'm probably like a majority of folks out there that browse products at the level McIntosh, then look at the price tag and go "JFC...". Nice to live vicariously through you guys and see a great explanation, analysis, etc. Maybe when I win the lottery...

[@robinsonbrand]

Our pleasure!

[@SteveRig82]

Great review I love my MAC7200, which is driving a pair of XR50 as my back speakers and the MAC7200 second output to a pair of MC611s driving a pair of XR100 for my primary speakers. Really enjoy McIntosh!

[@mikejames-drummerreginacan1386]

I bought a used Mac C26 Preamp in 1985 (already 10 years old) for $300...I literally never turned it off until 2018 as I ran my TV audio through it as a well as music. I sold it after using it for 33 years for $300 and it was still working fine.......as far as the look, you can tell if a Mac is in a system from 100 feet away....the big size, blue meters etc are ICONIC. If McIntosh changes it's look it would be like Coke changing it's formula. There is one McIntosh, one Rolex, one Rolls Royce and one Harley Davidson and the feeling you get owning these products is the GAME CHANGER.

[@markwilliford7471]

Super vid as usual Andrew. I’m glad you both reviewed a higher-end piece of equipment and also were not shy about comparing it to less expensive equipment. Interested to see you mix in some more higher-end reviews as time goes on. Aurender, Innuos anyone? Also - have you considered reviewing any of the high-end Schiit products - maybe the Yggdrasil?? Great job and I love hearing Kristi’s perspectives as well. It makes your reviews all the more interesting.

[@Breeder333]

McIntosh is worth EVERY penny. When I got my stuff about 15 years ago I was blown away at the difference I was hearing from my music. Never going back!

[@danieldelgado8153]

Agree. Got 2 mono block 611’s and a 5 channel 255 amp for my setup. Looking to get more. Happy 60th birthday gift from me to me. Lol. My best. Dan

[@billhartsfield424]

I have a 1970’s Mac 1500 receiver. Still sounds great. Not as much power as some newer gear, but still impressive.

[@tbirdsteve1]

Great review, really enjoyed this!!

[@ibassnote]

Respect to Kristi but the McIntosh look should never change. Never. I own Buchardts A500 so obviously I am forward thinking but if I ever see McIntosh looking like a Uniti Atom I will cry real tears.

[@jbbevan]

I have a McIntosh MA5300 which I'm using in a 10 x 10 den. I cannot justify to anyone WHY I sprang for this Amp....EXCEPT back in 1958 I wandered into one of those new stereo component salons (which were brand new at the time) and made the mistake of wandering into a demo room with a wall of blue meters. So a little over a year ago I took the dive. I think I decided to buy a McIntosh in 2021...in 1958. What I heard back then was a "gotta have" kind of experience. But McIntosh price tags are not about instant gratification...so it took me the intervening 60+ years to get up the courage to do it. I think my amp has most of the characteristics (to my ears) that Andrew describes...but mine has Bluetooth (which doesn't get used a lot)...phono capability (which does get used) and a DAC DA1. I have a lot of 24bit/96Khz recordings which I play from my other MacIntosh which is set up to put out that level of resolution. The front panel of the McIntosh shows me when the input is 96Khz. Is it worth it? Heqq, I don't know...but it was a 60 year life goal (bucket list item if you will) and I'm comfortable that that has been achieved and that I have the best, for me, there ever was. Oh, and I do like the McIntosh classic iconic LOOK.

[@andyv6230]

Congratulations James. Taking a notch off that bucket list always feels good. Best regards

[@mdjak3686]

Plain and simple, I paid for the iconic meters. I was a deadhead in the 70s, following them around concert to concert. I loved that wall of amps. Vowed to own one some day. Two years ago I bought the MC462, a 400wpc stereo amp. Is it the best amp there is? No clue because I’ve not owned better. But I love listening to it and looking at it. Perhaps not in that order.

[@missing1102]

Great answer. I think there is almost a built in reasoning as to why some of these products fascinate us so much. I have a Galaga machine in my basement becsue I swore I would have my own one day becaue it was my favorite video game. Just for a few minutes every now and then I am back in 1982. I went on the road to see the Dead a time or two. It's even hard to explain what that was like to younger people and maybe to myself if I want to admit it

[@musamusashi]

Honest answer.

[@roylv40]

Great review! Thank you for doing it!

[@hifionthemoon2745]

My pick is the MC 2105. I built a system for a club with a partner and we chose the 2105 as our primary amps (two of them) while the dj booth monitors were driven by another amp. My partner had conceived a switching board to control speakers all over the club and which amps would drive them. But he made a mistake and had the Macs putting their output directly into the other amps. Both sets of amps were around 100 watts per channel. The result: the other amps in effect, blew up. The Macs came through without any problems. Later, I came across a 2105 used and in a moment of fiscal madness, bought it. Used it for many years and enjoyed it greatly.

[@jamesnelson8549]

Absolutely worth the money!!! After years of owning other very good amps & preamps, I went for McIntosh! C2700 preamp MC312 amp! Stunning sound! Incredible flexibility of inputs & outputs & external control inputs! DAC is fabulous as well!

[@LawrenceLouie]

When you power up a piece of Mcintosh gear, it just puts a smile on your face. The MAC7200 will be next on my list. Personally have a Mcintosh MHT-100 Receiver and Mcintosh MAC1700 Receiver from 1972 (from my dad) and its just a joy to listen to.

[@robinsonbrand]

There is definitely a smile-factor with a product like the 7200!

[@timobi_1604]

Fantastic Andrew! May be your best review yet. I think part of that is my fondness for McIntosh so I listened and watched every second of this. ;) I've owned a lot of Mac gear. Never disappointed. I think there are some 'haters' who resent the brand and the iconic styling and maybe even resents the love that deservedly or undeservedly gets. Loved your comment on splitting hairs too! TRUTH. Lots of fantastic options in this price point. Well done Andrew and Kristi!

[@BC-ni3sk]

I have had the 7200 for a couple of years now and there is nothing else for me. It's a beast and drives a pair of thirty speakers without missing a beat!! I have wanted to own a Mac for 50 years and now have it! Hey Andrew let the hair go, bald is beautiful and saves on shampoo. Bald is a more advanced life form and yes the next iteration of the human race, we are just generations ahead!

[@liangyuchen6523]

Nice video, I have an MA7200 with my ATC20, and mid-range is just gorgeous.

[@GR8Tmate]

I bought a 7200 to use in my shed and it’s not bad but there’s nothing quiet like getting home and switching on my McIntosh Pre & Power amps and listening to where real audio is at.

[@sguttag]

Part of the McIntosh design is that their stuff works, from any era, looks like it goes together. I have zero problem with them keeping to their exterior design aesthetics. If you want something that looks more "modern" or "forward thinking" buy that other thing...you just aren't getting a McIntosh and 20-years from now, that other thing will probably be on the heap of outdated things while the McIntosh will continue to chug along being great.

[@johnpetrakis379]

Well, they have been building them in Binghampton, NY for a damn long time, but so has Audio Research, probably longer for MAC, they are legacy audio Co.s I don't know how "cutting edge" and a bit on the stodgy side. There all will be the latest greatest but most people do not realize how much groundwork was laid by Bell Labs in the 30's and as they say there's nothing new under the sun

[@stevenbrenner8232]

I think it really has to do with execution !

[@racekar80]

My father was a Mac guy, had a MC 225 tube amp that went bad, we living in NY drove it to the factory to get it repaired. It was sent back in a month, and it looked like a brand new amp. Everything was perfect. And the price was reasonable considering. The quality of the equipment is the best there is, and it’s American made. If I could afford it I would have Mac equipment.

[@ThePalmermark]

Andrew I always wanted to ask you but too afraid to insult you about your amazing hair growth. As I watch your videos twice-weekly it was quite noticeable over the past year! Thank you for your honesty. Mark

[@robinsonbrand]

Mark I can understand your hesitation and appreciate you wanting to approach the topic in a sensitive way. But I am an open book when appropriate and so long as you (or anyone) asks their questions in a respectful and humanistic way, I will more than likely share.

[@bencausey]

Thanks for the detailed review. Agreed on trying out Hegel, please.

[@radiorexandy]

I can't vouch for the latest generation of McIntosh products. However, McIntosh established its reputation in the fifties and sixties with their "amplifier clinics". If, for example, you had a Mac amp that needed a new set of tubes and brought the amp to one of their clinics, they GAVE you a new set of tubes! Talk about customer support, WOW! (Their rationale, BTW, was that if you had guests over, they wanted to have them hear their amps at their best. That, along with their "Sherman tank-like construction" is why Mac equipment is so expensive and has such high resale value. And, yes, MADE IN USA🇺🇸

[@dont4450]

My very first Mac ias a MA 6100 integrated amp that I bought in 1976. That beautiful sounding amp is still used daily, handles high resolution music files with ease, and has never been serviced. I've received offers over 3 times what I paid but I'll never sell n

[@williamdevereaux7484]

I've owned various Mcintosh gear for 30 years and yes it is very expensive but I have no regrets. The big bold sound stage that's so lush is hard to beat. Tube or solid state the sound is there. It's not for everyone that's for sure. My current lineup. 2 MC 601 Mono Blocks. C1100 p which is a 2 box tube preamp. For digital the D1100 Dac preamp. It will be the last Dac I buy because I don't think digital can can get any. better. Streaming internet radio via Sonos the sound is amazing. My high end streamer Aurender N10 high Rez files sound as good as vinyl!

[@intothebeyond8763]

My grandfather had McIntosh AMP from the 70's it was beautiful. He was a huge audiophile if he was alive today he would loose his mind with whats out now and I'd be right there with him.

[@marcomolini9338]

Thanks guys, great review! You saved me a butt-load of $$$! 👍

[@adolf72160]

I have had many amplifiers (tube and SS) and 4 years ago I tested my first Mcintosh in my house and since then I became a mcintosh “audio” lover, I said “audio” because my opinion it is only based on the sound performance. I just love the balance of MC sound between warm, detailed, dinamics, grip, euphonics, soundstage, pace and rhythm! Sometimes It is not the best in some of these features, but overall it have it all in my personal preference mix of prefered sound. Also it is very kind with my less than perfect recordings which are sometimes very normal in most rock, classical, pop and jazz music. I don’t need an audio system able to show the best of perfectly recorder music that is produced only for audiophiles, I need something that can give me the best of the music I like, regardless of how good that music was produced.

[@JimboJason]

Thanks for the review! McIntosh equipment has and will never be in my budget so I couldn't say what is my favorite piece of gear from that company.

[@tywoodruff8578]

On the run now, but looking forward to watching this review later. Been waiting for it since seeing the receiver in one of your other reviews. If venturing down the blue vortex rabbit hole id probably opt for an integrated over a receiver (my system doesn’t require video or tuner), but will still likely get the info and opinions I need to decide between Mac and other brands. Thanks Andrew and Kristi! Have an awesome day!

[@TM-fx2pi]

You are one of a few people to actually review a McIntosh integrated. Thank you. While I’m not a fan of, nor do I need a receiver, THERE WILL BE blue meters in my future ! Honestly, I have wanted a piece of McIntosh gear since 7th grade 😆. FIFTY years later, I can finally afford it 😬. You just nudged me that much closer. By the end of 2023, I WILL have blue meter in my rack. THANK YOU!!

[@karenmicich1203]

Which McIntosh would you choose ? MA 8900 or MAC 7200 ? Thanks !!!

[@bill8384]

My first system in the mid-70s was a Mc105? with a pair of Klipsch Cornwalls. Still miss that system!

[@artvandelay837]

just got the cornwalll 4's. they are amazing

[@snortingmydeaddad]

Maybe a 2105? I have a ma 2275 tube integrated that is used with 1974 Cornwalls. Magical sound. Absolutely magical.

[@spenceryacuboski8476]

Been waiting for this review!!

[@bullpup33]

I love the blue look. It gives me a sense of a purity. The hint warmth is what the makes the difference. Love these. Second to none in my book.

[@bobmenke3211]

Last summer I bought a pair of Martin Logan ESL's (the ones you reviewed way back) and a McIntosh MA 5300. Awesome! A system I never thought I'd own.

[@questionableidentity1]

what kind of room

[@stevenbrenner8232]

BAD ASS ROOM!

[@inpursuitoffreedomandhappi1696]

I recently demo'd a McIntosh MA12000 and an Accuphase E5000. Both are integrated amps and both are unique and gorgeous and both have their own sound signature and both sound awesome. To me the McIntosh MA12000 was more full, musical and extremely engaging. The Accuphase sounded a little too thin.

[@dixonkim8659]

I've owned the McIntosh MA8000 integrated amp for a few years now and what you say about the sound on the MAC7200 Andrew is spot on. But like you and Kristy imply, the look is not for everyone. I for one love the look! Thank you for the great review!

[@christopherdrown7666]

Great review! Thank you

[@tangentz0007]

As kids we dreamed for these units. Our Japanese Pioneer sx828s were expensive for us in 1970.

[@markscott7583]

Andrew = hair like Stalin. Great video, thanks. Makes me very curious to try in my home. Currently running Decware Zen UFO2 and Forte III and love it.

[@georgeb9189]

Glad to see a McIntosh review. I am well aware of the brand but never had the chance to experience them. What do you think about Marc Levinson amps?

[@altroist]

After owning a bunch of hifi gear; Denon, Marantz, Krell, Linn, Rotel and Yamaha I switched to McIntosh C50 with mcd301 with also a MB100 to feed my B&W803's which are connected to a CLASSÉ 301B. And I have to say it never sounded this good. Unreal difference. Now I don't want anything else. So, yes its worth it and they deserve all the audiophile praise they get! Loving it!

[@simianinc]

Would love to see your review of the Hegel H390 and compared to the other amps mentioned here

[@JD-pt3qq]

Yes - Really hoping you will do a review on the Hegel 390!!!

[@pmizz7959]

I LOVE my Hegel 390! Would be super curious to see how Andrew and Kristi think it stands up to these.

[@andrewcook4072]

Thank you very much for this review. I have had hair loss since my late teens and always had the Mickey taken out of me for years. I so wish I had known about Keeps then, perhaps I would not have had a bad time in my 20s, but I eventually found a girl that liked thin hair and audio. Now I'm in to my 50s and things are so much worse, that massive shiny gap between my ears must cause reflections in the higher frequencies, so thanks again i will be in touch with keeps to see if they do a hi Res version as my DSP software is having serious problems. Oh, on a side note the rest of your review was also good and I would love a McIntosh

[@jeromewhitmill733]

Do you think you'll ever get Hegel H390 integrated in for review? Your review was great as usual and didn't seem long at all.

[@rick-fj5do]

I wish you were my next door neighbor dude!! I gotta say i usually don’t comment or read others comments and i probably still wont but man there is a serious problem i wish i knew what was wrong with some people. Ok so yes not every mac is for everyone or anyone but i find the only people that hate macs are contrarians … the same ones that root against the home team just to get a rise or actually drag down the party I personally think the McIntosh is truly an American icon that continues to stand the test of time. Keep up the awesome work

[@mythos5809]

I think the Mac is great, sound and looks. I also agree that audio kit needs to address different levels of need, the pure audiophile approach with sound room etc, but maybe Mac should consider an alternate line, with different style criteria (less bright blue, smaller sizes etc) to fit modern requirements like stacking under the tv etc. For what it's worth...

[@mustangfred2006]

Love this channel

[@robinsonbrand]

Thank you, Warren!

[@nickelbut10]

I bought the Audiolab and in my system, in my dedicated room built from scratch for 2.2 channel, it sounded a tad too dry/cool for my liking. I compared it to the Arcam SA30 amd rega elex r, which i know are more money, but for my personal taste i missed that organic warmth I have grown to love with old age. Haha. 40. That said i understand why people would like it. Great to see McIntosh still making great amps.

[@paulwarren7018]

Never owned a Mac but have auditioned them many times over 40 years. They do their work effortlessly and reliably in nearly all scenarios. That's the appeal for me. The price tag and the space requirements are my alibis for not owning a Mac amp/receiver....yet.

[@trashyaudiophile7301]

As someone that used to work next to a high end audio dealer, McIntosh is among the top 10 HiFi audio companies in the world. There's more expensive, but it's very hard to beat the sound of a Mac.

[@MrPompanoman]

With a transistor radio maybe lol over priced junk I have heard mcintrash out preformed by sansui Harmon kardon pioneer forget the real high end manufacturer's

[@trashyaudiophile7301]

@@MrPompanoman setup, equipment are key. I don't know where this comment came from. But I haven't heard any mid grade equipment sound better then a McIntosh.

[@MrPompanoman]

@@trashyaudiophile7301 I find it interesting that no wealthy reviewers own it? I have always thought it was mediocre sounding. I prefer audio research. So many superior brands but if you like it it's all that really matters. I find it lacks refinement and sounds mid fi lacking detail and although they have fantastic output transformers I have heard many repair people say the internal hardware is cheap it is what it is.have a nice day.

[@grampawwillie1665]

in the end the real limiting factor is the quality of the work that went into the mix. once you have a pretty decent system you'll notice some recordings are much better than others. and this is the same whether you like vinyl or CD. if sound systems were to be improved they would need to move from stereo to at least L-R-C 3-channel

[@audacious22]

@ Andrew Robinson I have a pair of ML Electromotion ESLs. In your opinion is McIntosh a synergistic match, sonically? Would you rather have MC312 or Pass Labs x150.8/x250.8 in this scenario?

[@tedhaining2244]

Being originally from Binghamton, NY, I’m always glad to see some love for gear from the old home place.

[@Uniprnt]

Say what you will. I own since the late 80's at 7270 and C29. Both units to this day are just fantastic. Not only that, I paid about $2400 for the amp and 1800 for the C29. The amp today is worth about $3500 and the C29 about 2100. In fact Mc will give you 75% of its value today based upon the original purchase price. Furthermore, 34 years later I can still get the unit serviced by Mc or one of its dealers. I doubt you can say that about an amp or pre-amp booth 34 years ago. There is considerable value in owning a MC

[@scottcarlon6318]

The GRATFULL DEAD made MCINTOSCH legend. Their WALL OF SOUND powered by these monster amplifiers was truly epic. If you are interested in rock history, read up on ‘’THE WALL OF SOUND’’. I am personally incapable of putting into words how earth shattering that moment in history was.

[@inpursuitoffreedomandhappi1696]

Great review. I'm considering a McIntosh MA9500, MA12000 or the Anthem STR. And I'm also torn between these integrated amps vs separates. You guys touched on something that is very important to me. And that is "most people nowadays don't have a dedicated music room". For me a dedicated room is extremely important and so much so that I built myself a beautiful room in an independent structure 200' from my main house. It's in the country where there is an abundance of wildlife, trees etc. and I can't think of a better way of listening to music. I currently own Cambridge 851W and 851N separates but I'm in the process of comparing McIntosh to Anthem.

[@stephensams709]

Great review! I own the C50 and MC452 and I have to agree with you on the controls, but since I use the remote most of the time, it's not really an issue : )

[@patrickjones8209]

Impressive. Would love to see Luxman and Accuphase reviews as well!

[@repairfreak]

Someday I would like to own a Mcintosh integrated amp and some killer speakers. Hopefully this bucket list will be completed before I pass away. I’m now 55

[@danieldelgado8153]

Never give up. Just got my Macintosh amps for my 60th birthday. Best thing I could of done. Should of done it sooner. My best Dan

[@brentcollins9727]

I’m 54 and just ordered my new Sonus Faber Sonetto 3’s yesterday. They’ll be here in a few weeks. I’ll hook them up to my Technics amp that I’ve enjoyed for the last 30 years and then set my sights on a Mac a few years down the road.

[@repairfreak]

@@danieldelgado8153 Thanks Dan, enjoy my friend ✌️😎👍

[@georgebz1469]

Nice review. Any chance for a review of the less expensive McIntosh MA 5300?

[@razvanciulu1775]

Hello @Andrew Robinson, Which amplifier provides a warmer sound? MAC7200 or the technics?

[@robinsonbrand]

McIntosh IMHO.

[@tombillard5264]

my fave review yet, esp about reaching a price point and coming down to personal nuances people keep forgettingits all subjective and ears are like finger prints all unique

[@robinsonbrand]

Appreciate you watching and understanding the finer points of the discussion Tom!

[@alm5693]

Patrick Stewart would like a word with your advertiser. I've been in the Patrick Stewart camp (the bald one, not the sexy one) for over 30 years, so thanks for marking where the next chapter starts. If it helps you get into a new house, keep 'em coming! Thanks for this Mac review. I'll put it on my "if I win the lottery" list.

[@KristiWright]

❤️