McIntosh has unveiled a new addition to their range of hybrid integrated valve amplifiers this week with the launch of the new MA252 Integrated Amplifier which has been inspired by the McIntosh MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier, combining the best of solid state circuit design and vacuum tubes to create an amplifier that is both “visually and sonically stunning” say it’s creators. The McIntosh MA252 Integrated Amplifier is a preamplifier stage that uses two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 vacuum tubes housed inside stylish protective cages. Providing users with a solid state amplifier that delivers 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 160 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers.
The McIntosh MA252 amplifier also features the company’s Monogrammed Heatsinks which are connected to advanced high current output transistors, eliminating the typical amplifier warmup times allowing the MA252 to be ready for use as soon as the amplifier is switched on. McIntosh explain more :
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.
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 overdriving 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.
For more information, full specifications and to purchase your very own McIntosh MA252 amplifier jump over to the official McIntosh Labs website by following the link below.
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