REVIEW: McIntosh MA252 AMP - LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT?

PRODUCER'S NOTE: In this video I inadvertently mention that the McIntosh MA252 Hybrid Amp has digital inputs. It clearly DOES NOT! My apologies for the error!
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I've been wrestling with loving this amp, the McIntosh MA252 Hybrid Integrated Amplifier, It's half tube and half solid state. What am I missing? Do I have it wrong? Is love really blind... even in the audio world? Please watch and decide for yourself! Do you have a WARM place in your heart for the MA252? Please Like and Subscribe like a Boss!
www.mcIntoshlabs.com
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[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

PRODUCER'S NOTE: In this review I mistakenly mentioned that the McIntosh MA252 includes digital inputs. It clearly does not. I apologize for the error!

[@jaredpmoser]

Been waiting for this review. Thanks Bob.

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

I know things are starting slower than you hoped but your videos are what I look forward to more than any other content! I dig your style and sense of humor (and humanity) and know that things will take off once KZbin’s algorithm catches up.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Consistency is the key! I'll keep banging it out for you!!! Thanks!

[@40bdg]

I liked the intro. Glad things worked out for you in the end. Thanks for sharing your tale.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Always! And thanks for being here!

[@wvjon75]

I like your conversational style and humor. I hope your channel grows!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Me too! Thanks!

[@HeavyBeats24]

You are very entertaining. Keep it up!!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks, Simon! Where do you live?

[@adsph]

Good to hear the Mac is good. Also good to hear its back to goodness with you. I'm sure the Mac is a fine component.

[@ScramjetNY]

Greetings from Binghamton Bob. I had a new MA252 for a few years and traded it in for a new MA5300 which I have now been running for nearly 2 years. I wanted the onboard DAC, meters, and the few extra inputs on the MA5300. I was expecting the sound signature of the MA5300 to be nearly identical to the MA252, which i really loved. I have found that the MA5300 sounds incredibly better to my ears than the MA252 did. I am really delighted that I swapped them out and have not regretted my decision in the least. I also like the slim chassis profile and much lower weight of the direct coupled MA5300 compared to the McIntosh integrateds with autoformers. Great channel BTW. I just discovered it and I'm really glad that I did :)

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Yeah... I might have an opportunity for a trade. I don't want to loose too much value. At this point I have all kinds of stuff to listen... and 252 is just another arrow in my amp quiver! Glad we found each other!!!!

[@joemcsweeney3923]

Greetings from Syracuse. That's one hefty arrow. I confess I have not heard the 252 but agree with Scramjet. As a fellow owner of a 5300, it's incredible and will drive those Fortes to concert volumes before powergard starts pestering. She does get hot though. Your 252 is a stunning looking piece that will always hold its value.

[@guymitchell7612]

Hi ! i was watching your video about the mac 252 and wow! it hit me ... i was like you a little disapointed in at first with that amp, but i kept listening to it with my new pair of wharfdale lintons 85th anniversary and my jvc ql-5f turntable with a denon 310 cart , it seemed to me that it lack in sounstage and prescence after 300 hours or so of listening to the tt and the little dac i have i got to say that i can listen to that setup all day long without any fatigue, i love the smooth and soft relaxing sound of the setup now very very much i hope you will too! good listening sir!!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I would think the Lintons would be a perfect match on every level... sons, looks. Always wanted them. The 252 with my Forte IV's probably produce a similar sound !

[@MrTabacon]

I appreciate your willingness to give gear a 2nd chance. I've been excited to try new things and have felt that despair with large out of pocket and less than satisfactory sound... It's hard for me to try and demo new gear these days - within my budget I just don't see how things will get a lot better. I want to try new gear, and usually don't just to avoid frustration and lost time. I think the Fortes helped your situation a lot and am happy for you that it's a good pairing.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I agree with EVERYTHING you've said. That's why I normally don't make those large purchases. The hobby is always more fun when you find great sound in a value product that exceeds your expectations. That's always what I'm looking for! Thanks for watching!

[@mrk8212]

Just like you said, I have wanted a McIntosh setup since the 70s. 2024 is going to be my year.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Avoid the hybrid!

[@mrk8212]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I thought you liked yours, I will watch the vid again and pay attention this time

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

@@mrk8212 I was conflicted I guess. If I could go back in time I would have saved more money and got what I really wanted... the 275 and a Mac pre. I don't want you to go through the same drama! If I'm keeping it I might as well try to pair it with the right stuff and enjoy it! Happy hunting!

[@mrk8212]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I heard the 352 in person yesterday and was impressed. I wanted to compare it to one of the big solid state integrated amps but the dealer did not have one if you can imagine. I am very close to buying a 352 but want to hear a MA8900 in person first. It will likely be one or the other. For my first McIntosh purchase I am going with new, otherwise I might look at separates also. There are some very good prices on used separates out there right now.

[@darylfortney8081]

352 is an incredible amp

[@jasonlsimmons]

I always thought I wanted a McIntosh too. Got a new MAC7200 from a local dealer and it died in two hours. Returned it for a Mark Levinson 5805. So much better. That is real hifi.

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

You sucked us in and hit it out the park. Well done, my friend. McIntosh is something I will aspire to in another life when my life takes off, or not. 😂 Enjoy your success and guilty pleasure amp. I hope it grows on you and will one day fulfill your expectations. Perhaps I'll stick to my Marantz or Rotel and continue to ignore McIntosh. 😂 Thanks for your time and efforts to review and share this with us all. Merry Christmas to you and the whole family. All the best.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

It's all about the flavors! Thanks for the comment, Simon!

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog You're always most welcome, Sir.

[@johnbrender7635]

Another good one Bob! One day I too will reach the peak of the audio summit aka in our world...McIntosh When I got my first pair of Magnepans I felt I had arrived...then I got the McIntosh bug. Problem is my wallet is like bugspray.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks, John! Spoken like a true poet!

[@errolallen5007]

I listened to the MC462 and the C49 when I was deployed and saved my money and after over 30 years with a JVC receiver and a vintage rack I got them in 2022 and built some open baffle speakers and I’m in heaven😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@stevezeidman7224]

Bob, I loved the intro! I have vintage McIntosh. I have 4 pieces (amps, preamp) all from 67-82. I really love their sound. One of the amps has autoformers, the other direct coupled. The Autoformers amp (MC2155 155 wpc) is very much the warmer but sweet midrange and vocals but the details are there. My other is a MC2002 (200 WPC) is direct coupled. It is much more neutral and def had plenty of power with very punchy bass. You can get these amp-preamp combos for 2500-3000. I love them both. Oh yeah, they have meters too 😎

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Stop it... you making be break the 11th Commandment... though shall not covet thy neighbors gear!

[@stevezeidman7224]

Too funny! The Fortes are a great pairing for that MA252. It’s a fine piece and absolutely rocks the aesthetic!

[@moonytheloony6516]

What I have learned from this video is that there may be no finer feeling than deciding that your $4,500.00 amplifier will have a home in your home...beyond that of a very expensive avant-garde paper weight.

[@Rolandolamotta]

i actually bought the Mc ma252.... was not satisfied with it, took it back to my great dealer & i got out of it with the MA352 & a Mc MTII, JUST LOOOOVE IT, great review, good luck ;-}

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Yeah... I have to jettison it! Thanks!

[@johngutmanis3580]

I just found your channel and subscribed! Glad hearing about your experience with the ma252. I have to admit the blue meters and glass front plates with the green LED’s really look great! The meters have a hold over me, I think I will own this gear for the rest of my life, I’m hooked. I own a c50 and an mc352. That combo is on the neutral to a little warm side. With the built in EQ I can make it sound anyway I want. I mainly listen on 1980’s Klipsch La Scala’s and NHT ten powered subs. To get different flavors I also have a Carver tube amp and a pair of DIY class D mono block amps. My TV system is an NAD c700 with Klipsch Heresy IV speakers in the living room. To the haters of McIntosh and Klipsch all I can say is haters gonna hate.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Good stuff you got there! And the players are gonna play!

[@GIBKEL]

How’s the phonostage in it? I have the Fortes and the mofi with a Vincent SV226MKII. It sounds good to a point….and that’s the point I want to go to. I believe I can get the Mac for 2500 and I want to better imaging with the vinyl and digital. Curious about your specific experience with that aspect.

[@korling99]

I love McIntosh too - very fortunate to have a MC-240 and MX-110. Austin is the Capital of The United States of Analog - Great city!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks! Enjoy your Mac gear. Someday I shall have the 275... and La Scalas... and...

[@mikewolfe9458]

I just found your channel and subscribed after seeing the cheapaudioman plug. Glad I did! I’ve been considering one of these or a rogue Cronus Magnum III as an upgrade from my Yamaha A-S301. I’ve wanted some “real” McIntosh gear since I was a kid as well. I had a MAC1900 receiver that I really enjoyed for awhile until I traded it for a Telecaster a few years ago. Wish I hadn’t done that…

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Wait... tell me about your tele! I have an all-rosewood George Harrison model!

[@mikewolfe9458]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog very nice! Those are cool guitars. Mine was a 2009 FSR model in Daphne Blue with a rosewood board and matching headstock. It was very cool. But I sold that one as well and went down the vintage spec nitro finish rabbit hole for awhile. I’ve currently got a squier 40th anniversary model that I modded the holy hell out of with a Bigsby and custom shop pickups and wiring.

[@cirenosnor5768]

@mikewolfe9458 - One could argue that a “real” Mac is all tube. Not solid state or hybrid 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@brentcollins9727]

I have the more powerful MA352 with the equalizer and absolutely love it. Streaming from a HiFi Rose 250 into Sonus Faber Sonetto 3’s, I can listen to it all night.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Heard great things about the he 352. How could they be so different, power aside? Thanks!

[@brentcollins9727]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog , I’m not sure if they do. The 352 just looks so much better with the meters and the equalizer makes crappy recordings sound better. Plus the resale will always be there. McIntosh wins on so many levels, in my opinion.

[@mrk8212]

rock solid setup right there my friend, congrats and happy listening

[@grahamwhatling1871]

In my experience the 352 was embarrassed by Accuphase and Pathos, absolutely embarrassed. On hearing my thoughts, my dealer confessed that he only keeps McIntosh on as it gets people in, who then nearly always end up buying one of his other brands in preference.

[@4Rhouse]

I'd be interested in a blind hearing test of this amp vs. the $200 Dayton Audio HTA100, a similar design with tube a preamp.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I think the McIntosh might win... it would be an interesting experiment!But there are cheaper contenders from Prima Luna and Black Ice (Jolida). Thanks for watching.

[@billd9667]

Great video. I am curious about your mentioning digital (coax, optical) inputs. On your own B roll, no such inputs are visible.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Wow, you are right! I'm only human. It does not have a built in DAC. That embarrassing. Please disregard and thanks for catching that!

[@billd9667]

You’re human? I’m not! Bleep blorp!

[@anthonycharles19]

I Like your review style been subbed a minute .

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks for checking it out! Appreciate the sub!

[@gilesdavis6345]

Great video again. I’ve got a ma2275 that I love. I used to swap back and forth with a jardis orchestra. But the Mac has stayed in play for quite a while now. I should think both are on the warm side, and maybe not entirely true to the source. But I like what they do. The Mcintosh has a bit more balls (technically speaking).

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks. I keep trying to love it!

[@parttime9070]

Does it clip with CD's as will as LP's.? I have a rebuilt MC 2105, it makes my Klipsch KG.4's sound awesome.. Over the years I found that a subwoofer made a big difference, striping away some bottom end so the speaker's didn't have work as hard..

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Yeah, the clipping hasn't been a problem with my Fortes!

[@3dimensionsofmusic3D]

I have the SS macs with the autoformers. Very satisfied. My ears would clip before these amps would. Matching speakers is as important to choosing your flavor of amps. Happy listening 🎶. Greg

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Alright... now you're just bragging! 😃

[@edholmwood2263]

Great new intro. Another very good video my friend. Merry Christmas. BTW, How do I buy that T-Shirt you are wearing. I need it to match up to my Back Stage Pass shirt. Thx.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I'll send you one! Send your deets to [e-mail], Ed!

[@edholmwood2263]

I did email you. 2XL if you have it. Thx.@@UnitedStatesofAnalog

[@CarlosPerez-eb5er]

I home tested this amp and a Primaluna all tube. Even though the Mac had more features I wanted I opted for the Primaluna. No regrets, love the Primaluna, has more than enough power.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I'm going to try and get my hands on one!

[@davidsagarra9841]

I have both, a PrimaLuna EVO400 poweramp and a McIntosh MA12000 integrated amplifier; the internal tube preamplifier of the MA12000 is always working and I choose between the very sweet (yet very powerful) EL34 tube amplification of the PrimaLuna or the monster powerhouse SS amplification of the McIntosh.

[@TeensierPython]

I was also cross shopping those brands. It was tough because I couldn’t hear them in the same store. Ended up with the McIntosh because it was available and the Primaluna was not available for 6 months at the minimum.

[@TeensierPython]

I was also cross shopping those brands. It was tough because I couldn’t hear them in the same store. Ended up with the McIntosh because it was available and the Primaluna was not available for 6 months at the minimum.

[@arielrodriguez6980]

Do you think the MA252 will drive Magnepan LRS since they demand power?

[@jimfarrell4635]

You are absolutely right about different amp flavours. I was never 100% satisfied with any of my amps till I set up an Allnic 300b SET tube amp and a 215 watt Kinki solid state together in the same system. So for acoustic music and jazz its tubes, and for rock and orchestral its solid state and I feel I get the best of all worlds. And yet there are still those poor deluded souls out there who swear all amps sound the same unless faulty. Bless. Incidentally, Bob, I would love to hear your mellifluous tones on the radio. What radio station are you on and when ? I presume it streams on the interweb ( I'm in Scotland ).

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I'm on the mighty KLBJ-FM 93.7. Mornings with Matt and Bob (powered by Chuy). You can stream us live Texas time on klbjfm.com. Most days we put up reruns there two. You can also stream up on the various radio apps like iheartradio

[@jimfarrell4635]

Cheers, Bob, appreciate it. US radio is so much better than UK radio, except perhaps for Radio 4. Music radio in the UK is dire. I look forward to having a listen.

[@jgrizzle2]

Good video. I own both the MA252 and the MA352. I understand what you mean about being a little underwhelmed at first, after hearing the 252. It's very smooth and somewhat laid back. In my opinion the MA352 is much better sounding. It has more authority, power and a better soundstage, plus, it has main outputs, so it can also be used as a preamp, if desired.

[@philipketchum1407]

Klipsch do love McIntosh and tubes

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Amen, Phillip!

[@Jamko1970]

The best integrated all-tube amp is the McIntosh MA2275. I wish they would bring back an integrated amp like that one ☝️

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I wish they would make something under $1000!!!

[@jimfarrell4635]

​@@UnitedStatesofAnalogDon't they make some Bluetooth thingy, which retails for about £1200 here. Not under $1000, but edging close. Though who wants a Mac Bluetooth thingy ?

[@mnbsay9548]

Wow… two months ago I got my my first Mac, 252, I feel you, it feels underwhelming and seems to lack the punch I was expecting. I’m running it through klipsch Cornwall 4 that are rated for only 100 watts so I thought this would be a good pairing. Like you mentioned I have the same clipping going on. I really thought I would be able to just run the amplifier and not second guess my purchase. Just like you before I bought the 252 I was seriously considering the 275 and honestly that’s the direction I wish I had gone. I think we got what we paid for but not necessarily what we wanted… Until I can get some more funds together and upgrade, it’s still a very decent amplifier, I’ll enjoy this.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Wow... I really hit a nerve out there with this one! Hang in there!

[@tonyrinaldi3945]

I've been shopping for a new amp to power my cornwall 4 speakers. All the so called reviewers have been praising the Rotel RA1592 amp, I purchased it and was completely underwhelmed, I returned it and started researching again. The MA 252 was on my short list. however I may have a change of heart after watching this video. I think things are so overhyped that our expectations are rarely met, this review and comments bring us back to to reality. Back to the drawing board.

[@user-zg4vy4im8y]

I use a combination of infinity’s Athena book shelf speakers and a klipch s120 sub and it performs amazingl, very clear full and punchy

[@ramondelgado6778]

What about that beautiful MA5300 behind you? Which one is better? Great video! Merry Christmas!!!!!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

That's actually a MHA100

[@ramondelgado6778]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Please do tell! Looks like it's a really nice integrated with a very desirable DAC and headphone amp!!!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

@@ramondelgado6778 technically I think it is their first dedicated headphone am but it also has a 50wpc speaker amp

[@ramondelgado6778]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I'm seeing pretty stellar reviews. And at $4,500.00, it better be. It looks gorgeous!!!!

[@Prometheus1979]

I just found your channel and subbed. McIntosh is one of the last brands I would own. They are about the name, pretty lights and VU meter, sonic performance is second. There are way better sonically performing amps out there then McIntosh.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Why didn't you tell me this BEFORE... jeez! Thanks for watching!

[@Prometheus1979]

lol got a chuckle from that. Enjoy your McIntosh it is a privilege to own one. Happy holidays!!!

[@mrk8212]

My experience is that differences are generally subtle and often quite subtle indeed once you cross into real hifi gear. What would you cite as an example of a way better amp? Honest question, not trying to be argumentative.

[@grahamwhatling1871]

Couldn't agree more, definitely overhyped and trading on image. I've compared a few Mc's to other amps and they were consistently embarrassed at each price point by Accuphase, Pathos, Bryston, Devialet, Gryphon, and Vitus. Look nice though.

[@mr.potatofries8094]

@@grahamwhatling1871 can you give me a cheaper alternative to the Mc please

[@ridirefain6606]

I enjoyed your take on this product. Yep, I also feel the same way on the sonic character of MA252. Due to the amount of space needed to handle its size and the amount of heat it generated the MA252 replaced a Prima Luna Dialogue HP. The PL had more punch than the Mac, you could really rock out on that thing. I would agree with the engineer you talked to. The 252 is just not that kind of amp. I found mine works best in a small room with singer songwriter type of music. Now, I do play Metal and Classic Rock on it. Quite loud, in fact. In three years of ownership the vocals and instruments never distorted or went into clipping. However, I am not using a speaker that is as large as your Forte's. Just a 4-Ohm bookshelf with modest sensitivity. My take is if you want a Mac that has more drive and authority the 352 is a better choice, I also own an Anthem STR integrated as well which retails for about the same price. It is definably a more Rock Roll amp. However, I do not find it as much fun to listen to. It sonics are pleasingly musical, however it has a much more inoffensive and neutral sound. On close microphoned vocals it does not have same breath and real flesh on the bone character the Ma252 does. There is not much out there in SS world that does. I will close with one suggestion. If you want more punch and bite, I suggest trying some tube rolling. Switching things out may give you some extra punch that is more suitable to your tastes.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Hey, thanks for your help detailed and thoughtful comments! You should have your own KZbin channel! I would watch. Thanks for confirming some of my concerns. At least I know I'm not going crazy! Thanks for watching!!!! Any tube suggestions?

[@Lucasnxvii]

I've got kef r7 metas, what would you pick for your first amp? Ma252 or str? I absolutely love the Mac but I can't ignore str with power/value/room correction.

[@ridirefain6606]

@xvii IMHO. It would depend on your preferences in music. The STR is more flexible and due to its power reserves. If you listen to RAP, Hip Hop, EDM, and Techno the STR would be a better fit. It is an amp that sounds just right and does little if any embellishment. Now amps that have little more character are far more suited to my taste. I like the sound of ma252 a lot more on Classic Rock, Metal, Jazz, Light Classical, and Singer Songwriter stuff. Now given what I like in music. If it were me, I would mate the KEFS with the MA252. To my ear its sound is just so much more engaging. I feel the rich midrange and laid-back upper treble of the Mac would sound wonderful with the R7's. Now, if you like something that kicks you in the gut. The ma252 does not have that type of sound. If that is your preference, I think you will be happier with the Anthem STR. Especially since it has great bass management features that makes integrating a sub a cakewalk.

[@Lucasnxvii]

@@ridirefain6606 awesome reply, thank you! Hopefully getting to demo ma252 soon to help make my decision.

[@Nordraw]

You have a right to expect a lot at that price.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I guess. It's not like it's hot trash, but I guess I was expecting audio Nirvana, and it fell a little short. I am not the only one who has expressed concerns about the usable power.

[@thedude6478]

Marantz 1060! A great little amp

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I had one in the 70s!

[@stratofever1]

What speakers were you using? Which wires? WIRES! It makes a huge difference !

[@TheMrgonzalo05]

Are you going to review that beautiful headphone amp behind you?

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

It's a thought! I'll put it on the list. It's a McIntosh MHA100 headphone amplifier with a 50wpc amp included. Thanks for watching!

[@LitlHickey]

I had a Pioneer back in the good days or maybe a Kenmore.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Better than an Admiral!

[@steverogers7611]

How would u upgrade ? The 352 ?

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Maybe sell off and save (or win the Lottery)and go the 275 + preamp route. I have a Black Ice tube amp inbound! I'd also like to try a Prima Luna. Mac ain't the only tube game in town!

[@allenwilliams8962]

Wow this one is right up my ally. Never buy a Mac without "autoformers" you will hear a difference. I have a MAC-7200 and Forte IV's and had the SU-G700 receiver. Much prefer the MAC. Even though the Forte's are considered the most polite in the Heritage line up... they are still have a VERY forward presentation. They need to be tamed with laid back gear. Even the sources -DAC's Streamers, cartridges. I found this out the hard and expensive way! Just my ears and opinion great review !

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thank you so much for your thoughts comments. Maybe I should part ways with the 252. Selling stuff is such a hassle. I have a tendency to cling to my gear... time to cull the herd, I guess! Thanks for watching!

[@davidsicking7514]

I would the hybrid would be reversed; power tubes preamp solid state. Tube Power amps have limited negative feedback to reduce distortion. But distortion blends in with musical instruments overtones. To get lower distortion must build more powerful amplifier which gives less distortion at spec level. Preamps cover mixing and response variations. But levels are modest and well within drive capabilities. So distortion is typically under 0.01‰. 0:03 David Sicking

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Mac got it wrong I guess. Too bad. Im still gonna give it another chance!

[@esd9510]

I had the same issues with the 252. I traded in and got the MA352, all issues went away. If you like the sound of the 252, the 352 destroys it in every way.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Did you trade through McIntosh's trade in program?

[@esd9510]

I traded through my dealer. I’m assuming the program was used. If you get the chance to get your hands on the 352, I think you will be very happy. All the issues you had/have with the 252 are the exact same as I did. The upgrade is night and day. No clipping issues and much better sound.

[@jaycoleman8062]

I had something similar and figured out a couple of things. I have the MA-252 and their XR50 speakers and play mostly vinyl. My room is 10x12 with a stone floor. Never really much above 60% getting mid 80s decibel peaks is more than adequate. Then, I opened the door, and I needed more volume. These speakers are not very efficient, but this amp lights them up with really good bass. I was playing at 73% with the bass control +5db playing vinyl and had 1 quick flash of yellow. The combination of the open door & +5db may have contributed. Your room seems bigger. I think the amp is running out of breath because of room size. Trying to get above 90db is pushing it, imho. I love my setup but realize it will not fill up a bigger room, even with more efficient speakers. Just my opinion here.

[@dougg1075]

Clipping with Heresy’s?

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

No... my b&w towers mostly!

[@darylfortney8081]

You need the 352… much more powerful. Ask a dealer about trading it up. Personally I never get clipping on my 252 or 352 driving maggies at ear blistering volume

[@PH-gm2qe]

If I had this in my home I would not speak to anybody. I would listen to music 16 hours a day LOL

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I get it. It's all about expectations. It's a good unit, just not what I expected. Some days it absolutely shines. The Fortes are a good match!

[@PH-gm2qe]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog you are right. I had a chance to listen to this unit and I loved it. But my current budget does not allow it. Total apartment reconstruction in progress. But I hope after 2-3 yers, probably. And then I will stay at home for rest of my life :-)

[@BeyondResolution]

Good to hear that value is not a part of the review :) No products from MC is a value. You do pay the Mcintosh tax on it. They have a good build quality(far from the best) and they have a sound(the mc sound that you either love or hate). But at this pricepoint you can get so much more, so much better sounding stuff. But yes, the look of a mac is just that.. :)

[@ArnaudSiemons]

The room, the speakers. the mood, the music..... There is no such thing as a perfect amp...

[@mrrocknroll84]

Trust me, many amps these days suffer from modern tubes. They aren't as good as old ones. Get yourself some nos tubes...it will make a difference. Kimber or canare cable will go very well with the klipsch speakers.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Hey, thanks for the tips! Sharing is caring!

[@rajoconnor]

Killer shirt

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

usanalog.square.site

[@reestyfarts]

Heard a few horror stories getting those serviced.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks for making it worse!😅

[@HeavyBeats24]

A dealer who sells these told me that most guys who buy it bring it back for something more powerful.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I've heard similar feedback from those in the know as well! Thanks!!!!

[@dougg1075]

Get a Wilsenton R8 and buy a ton of records. Heresy’s love it:)

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Yes, Captain!

[@pnichols6500]

Replaced all the tubes in my R8 with NOS tubes, some real Svetlana 6650c Russian tubes and Sylvania Pre amp tubes, not cheap (little less than $900) but soooo sweet! My Heresy IV'S love them! I actually use it as the amplifier, and a Parasound for a pre amp, gives me bass management for the sub, high/low pass control, bass/treble control, DAC etc. Really makes a nice combo.

[@jasonlsimmons]

Send it back. You blinded by the blue LEDs. 😂

[@mikecampbell5856]

I love the United States of Awesome channel. I think McIntosh treated you badly. Shame on them. I always wanted a Mac but I don't think as an old retired guy that will ever happen. LOL

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Never say never!maybe a Mac will find YOU! Thanks (as always) for watching! -USofA

[@roxy_xcxc6869]

🤔If u buy this, u must match with AudioQuest cable will be best match😘

[@kirkericson2722]

This product is a fail to me because they didn't include the VU meters. Frankly, I think they did it to get people to step up to the 7K MA352, even if those people didn't need the extra power. A McIntosh integrated without those blue meters is just a sad thing to look at.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I can't fight you!

[@stephencosta6814]

I don’t know why everybody makes such a big deal about those meters. I turn mines off it’s all about sound quality people I know people like them but it’s not a dealbreaker let’s face it.

[@LitlHickey]

Wooo I thought that man was Bruce Springsteen

[@joenovak6393]

I did not get caught into the "Voodoo" lights Mac sucks its players with and the Cult following know it all (goto the forms and you will see why). I have a 4100 just for giggles, but I am into Tube Gear with Point-to-Point wiring...PrimaLuna DiaLogue Premium HP Integrated, Sunvalley SV-S1616D [300B], Dennis Had Firebottle Inspire KT-88 and ELEKIT TU-8850.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I think I have access to some PrimaLuna locally. I better check it out!

[@dtracy03ss]

Great Video but you or Anyone else whether it's a Master Mac Tech or the President and CEO of the Company that is Mac will talk me in to a purchase! Because what you experienced, back in the Day, my Dreams were Pioneer and Sansui with Marantz and Kenwood in there too. Also I would rather spend a little more Money and buy a Completely Restored and Perfected Vintage Reciever with Twice the Power. The Vintage Sound and Performance, versatility and being able to add the modern equipment in with the vintage is a Win Win! My Opinion because I know there are Mac people that turn there Snoot on 100 % because NOTHING and I MEAN NOTHING, will ever compare to their Mac!!!, psssss - even if deep inside they Really aren't impressed like they lead on!!!! Mac has been a great Hi Fi system for lots of Years, Nothing wrong with Mac, it's All in What your taste in Sound is Period, so Power to the Mac. You and I grew up with Major Reciever Wars and they've always been for me. Keep up the Great "REAL" Videos! The ones we can trust are Genuine! Show this Cred to your Wife!!!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks! Great take!

[@MsCorbacho]

Maybe you are now being under critical because it’s the Mcintosh , the amplifier that you always dreamt over . This review sounded to me ( I am sorry to say) like a big excuse for a product that you know in fact it’s not worth the money if you are totally honest with yourself , I have been there …..I mean, you do buy a product , it is not at all what you made it in your imagination to be …..but it costed a lot, it’s beautiful, it’s that X brand , so……no ……of course not I must be wrong , I am wrong for sure . Humans are very , very good in auto suggestion . This is only my opinion over this video of course , and also my own experience from having had a lot of gear ( and I mean a lot ) for which I also had almost always excuses , Of course not every piece of equipment was bad , but that’s another story . I am happy and very lucky to be in a point of my life , that due to that experience with gear , and to had reach a certain age ….I sincerely do not care anymore about the brand , Since intent that way , I found a lot of for me unknown , but very interesting brands , and a lot of musical pleasure without expensive regret or excuses

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

You're probably right. I tend to cling on to useless things. Maybe I should kaboot it! Thanks for sharing!

[@MsCorbacho]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalognot at all, glad if I can help ! We all know how difficult and strange this road to obtain our perfect sound is.

[@tmdillon1969]

I'm lucky enough to be able to afford it but I just can't justify it. Dad raised us to be cheap.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Me too... it's the downside of having depression-era parental units! Thanks for watching!!!!

[@Bunno1177]

Analogue*

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

That's proper English!

[@roxy_xcxc6869]

😂Mcintosh is still the Best buy Hi-Fi cheap & Good. lucky they offer us cheap & fare price or elso no more people is going to play hi-fi Anymore😄. Mcintosh is the Perfect match with AudioQuest cable.

[@De132an]

It’s a dog into 4 ohms!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I believe it.

[@chebrubin]

Come on unless you are implementing 2 x McIntosh MC901 Dual Mono Amplifier with differential hybrid tube and solid state outputs you are going to be severely disappointed. Try spending $40k just to get started.

[@oledog8391]

Got one of these units. It’s gathering dust. Don’t want to sell it because it’s a McIntosh. It was replaced by a new 275, which is much better, but more expensive. Adding Cardas wiring really woke the 275 up. Yes, wire matters A LOT.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks! I draw the line at wire! I'm a simple man!

[@oledog8391]

@UnitedStatesofAnalog I scout The Music Room every so often looking for used Cardas. His stuff is really very good, but also very expensive. Picked up a pair of balanced interconnects for $300, originally over $1k. The result was magical. Don't like? TMR takes returns. Once you understand wire, it becomes an important component. Even my wife agrees.

[@ArnaudSiemons]

Totall BS. Unless you have perfect hearing...

[@melchior-chr.v.brincken8006]

Minimal to no information dragged out and out. Lots of insubstantial bla bla.

[@MOOeymania]

Crazy! 100 Watts into 8 should be fine for most speakers.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

You would think... right!