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McIntosh MC152 Stereo power amplifier

Item # 958MC152

The sonic character of a world-class amplifier like this one can be described as an iron fist in a velvet glove.

The sonic character of a world-class amplifier like this one can be described as an iron fist in a velvet glove.

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8 questions - 27 answers

Item # 958MC152

In stock
$5,500.00

About the McIntosh MC152

Steve Kindig

An amplifier that blends power and precision

The sonic character of a world-class amplifier like the McIntosh MC152 is often described as an "iron fist in a velvet glove." That requires an amp to have a robust, regulated power supply to tightly control the movement of a speaker's drivers — crucial for tight, accurate bass. It must also be able to react with lightning speed to changes in the music signal. The MC152 delivers all the bass slam you could ask for, serving as the foundation of its big, detailed, involving sound. If you're wondering, "Yeah, but will it rock?" The answer is, "Definitely!" The Grateful Dead's famous Wall of Sound PA system was powered by McIntosh amplifiers.

An amplifier that blends power and precision

The sonic character of a world-class amplifier like the McIntosh MC152 is often described as an "iron fist in a velvet glove." That requires an amp to have a robust, regulated power supply to tightly control the movement of a speaker's drivers — crucial for tight, accurate bass. It must also be able to react with lightning speed to changes in the music signal. The MC152 delivers all the bass slam you could ask for, serving as the foundation of its big, detailed, involving sound. If you're wondering, "Yeah, but will it rock?" The answer is, "Definitely!" The Grateful Dead's famous Wall of Sound PA system was powered by McIntosh amplifiers.

In addition to state-of-the-art sound quality, this amp stands out from the crowd of generic black boxes with those iconic blue McIntosh power meters.

Inside the classic McIntosh sound

McIntosh MC152 back panel

The MC152's speaker connections include taps for 8-, 4-, and 2-ohm speakers, for compatibility with demanding speakers, like many electrostatic models.

The MC152 delivers the effortlessly smooth, warm, non-fatiguing sound that McIntosh amplifiers are known for. One reason is the company's patented output Autoformers. These special output transformers ensure that the MC152 will deliver its full rated power — 150 watts per channel — into any speaker load.

The amp's back panel looks decidedly different than that of most stereo amps, with dedicated connections for speaker impedances of 8, 4, or 2 ohms. It's an expensive way to build an amp, but it means that even exotic, difficult-to-drive high-end speakers will provide optimum sound quality when paired with the MC152.

This amp also employs Power Guard, a waveform comparison circuit that continuously monitors both input and output signals. Power Guard dynamically adjusts the input level to prevent clipping and harsh-sounding distortion.


Praise for the McIntosh MC152 from Hi-Fi World

"It was the combination of power, control and overall coherence that made the McIntosh work so well with seemingly all musical genres… It can be subtle and fleet-of-foot when needed — yet is just at home pounding out deep bass lines, crashing guitar chords or orchestral crescendos. Not just a cut-down version of McIntosh's bigger power amplifiers but a great performer in its own right." Awarded 5 out of 5 globes.

— From Jon Myles' October, 2015 review at hi-fiworld.com
Read the full review


Achieve sonic synergy with a McIntosh preamp

McIntosh MC152 angled view

The MC152's clean, dynamic sound will add impact and presence when used with any preamplifier. Of course, an ideal match would be to pair the MC152 with one of McIntosh's preamps — like the analog/digital C49.

A world-famous audio heritage, made in America

Since its founding in 1949, McIntosh has defined the meaning of high-quality sound reproduction, while setting industry standards for superior performance and reliability. The company is based in Binghamton, New York, where its high-end components and speakers are still individually handcrafted by a team of skilled experts. This uncompromising dedication to quality has made McIntosh one of the most recognized and respected audio manufacturers in the world.

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Product highlights:

  • 150 watts per channel into 8, 4, or 2 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.005% THD with 2 channels driven
  • stereo balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
  • push-pull complementary Class AB design for signal purity, low crossover distortion, and improved efficiency
  • oversized power transformer and extra-large capacitors for stable, noise-free operation
  • patented McIntosh output Autoformers ensure every connected speaker receives full power regardless of its impedance
  • ThermalTrak output transistors for lower distortion and cool operation
  • Power Guard continuously monitors both input and output signals and dynamically adjusts the input level to prevent distortion and clipping
  • gold-plated binding post terminals accept bare wire, banana plugs, and spade lugs
  • Power Control in/out jacks for use with compatible McIntosh components
  • fiber optic illuminated glass front panel
  • detachable power cord
  • handcrafted at McIntosh's Binghamton, New York factory
  • total harmonic distortion: 0.005% at 20-20,000 Hz
  • signal-to-noise ratio: 118 dB balanced, 115 dB unbalanced
  • frequency response: 10-100,000 Hz (+0, -3dB)
  • 17-1/2"W x 6"H x 21"D
  • weight: 75 lbs.
  • warranty: 3 years
  • MFR # MC152

What's in the box:

  • Stereo power amplifier
  • 6' AC power cord
  • Owner's Manual

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More details on the McIntosh MC152

Stacey B.

Product Research

Features

150W Per Channel Stereo Power Amp w/ Balanced Push-Pull Design: The McIntosh MC152 is solid state stereo amplifier that delivers 150 watts of power into two channels at 2, 4, or 8Ω with less than 0.005% distortion for all frequencies from 20Hz to 20,000Hz. The McIntosh MC152 stereo power amp utilizes a Balanced Push-Pull design from input to output stage. Each channel of the amplifier also contains complimentary balanced circuitry. As a result, the MC152 delivers dynamic sound with low distortion, high efficiency, and high output power.

Exclusive McIntosh Power Assurance System: The McIntosh MC152 employs a collection of technologies that enhance performance and reliability while protecting the amplifier and loudspeakers.

  • Output Autoformers: McIntosh output Autoformers ensure every connected speaker receives full power regardless of its impedance. This unique patented McIntosh technology delivers the full-rated amplifier output with the least possible distortion into loudspeaker impedances of 2, 4, or 8Ω; you get all the power you paid for and the freedom to choose any loudspeaker. The Autoformers also provide perfect DC protection for your valuable loudspeakers.
  • Power Guard + Power Meters: Power Guard is waveform comparison circuit continuously monitors both input and output signals. Power Guard dynamically adjusts the input level to avoid clipping while preventing harsh sounding distortion. The amp's front-panel LED indicator will flash when Power Guard is activated. The Illuminated power output watt meters on the MC152 are peak responding, and indicates the power output of the amplifier.
  • Sentry Monitor: McIntosh Sentry Monitor power output stage protection circuits ensure the MC152 will have a long and trouble-free operating life. Sentry Monitor is a fuse-less short-circuit protection circuit that disengages the output stage before current exceeds safe operating level; resets automatically.
  • ThermalTrak & Thermal Protection: The power amplifier uses ThermalTrak output transistors for lower distortion and cool operation. Built-in thermal protection circuits guard against overheating.

Classic McIntosh Design & Specially Designed Power Supply: The MC152 stereo amplifier incorporates classic McIntosh design cues, including a black glass front-panel, rotary knobs, brushed aluminum end-caps, illuminated logo, and a power output watt meter. An oversized power transformer and extra-large capacitors ensure stable noise free operation.

Balanced & Unbalanced Analog Inputs: The McIntosh MC152 amplifier is equipped with one balanced stereo XLR input and one unbalanced stereo RCA input. Balanced connections guard against induced noise and allow long cable runs without compromising sound quality. There is a switch on the back of the amp that allows you to select between the balanced & unbalanced inputs.

Gold-Plated, Binding Post Terminals: McIntosh Patented gold-plated, binding-post speaker terminals deliver high current output to a single pair of loudspeakers. They accept large diameter wire (up to 10AWG), banana plugs (single only), and spade lugs. The power amp's Left & Right speaker channels have separate Positive (+) binding-post terminals, labeled "2Ω"/ "4Ω" / "8Ω". Each Left & Right speaker channel has only one Negative (-) binding-post terminal that is shared ("common") between the positive terminals.

Note: You can connect a single pair of loudspeakers to the Left & Right Positive (+) binding-post terminals along with the shared ground terminals, for a total of three pair of loudspeakers. Make sure the speakers ohm rating matches up with the terminals ohm rating. If you have 6Ω speakers, use the 4Ω output terminals.

Power Control In/Out: The MC152's Power Control Input (3.5mm) receives an On/Off signal from +5 to +12 volts when connected to a McIntosh component. The amplifier's Power Control Output (3.5mm) will in turn provide a +12 volt Output Signal with a total current up to 50mA to turn On/Off a connected McIntosh component.

AC Power Cord + Auto Power Off: The McIntosh MC152 power amp has a detachable AC power cord with 3-pole IEC connector. The MC152 incorporates an Auto Off feature, which automatically places the amplifier into the Power Saving Standby/Off Mode after approximately 30 minutes of no audio signal.

Mounting Options: The McIntosh MC152 can be placed upright on a table or shelf, standing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in a piece of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The four feet may be removed from the bottom of the MC152 when it is custom installed. Always provide adequate ventilation for your MC152. Allow at least 2" above the top, 2" below the bottom, and 2" on each side of the amplifier, so that airflow is not obstructed.

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Customer Q&A

8 questions already asked

Q
Is a 3.5mm stereo mini phone plug included for the on trigger?
michael  Jan 15, 2022
1 answer
A
No additional accessories are included, just the following: Stereo power amplifier 6' AC power cord Owner's Manual
kenneth  Jan 15, 2022 (Staff)
Q
I have MA8900 and thinking of connecting MC152 to it. Both are two channel so the idea is to have two "front" speakers connected to MA8900 and two "back" connected to MC152. Any concerns, recommendations?
alex  Aug 29, 2020
3 answers
A
P.S. You might look at an "outboard" hi rez "outboard" DAC since digital files are highly compressed. Just a thought. Alice
alice k  Aug 29, 2020
A
I'll try to answer your question but the truth is I have no experience in Home Theater. I have my 152 hooked up to Golden Ear Trident 2 plus speakers. I also have a pair of B & W Nautilus 802s hooked up to a 600W 5 channel c-j amp. Yes, crazy I know . . . but aren't all audiophile? Anyway, I take it the source is all digital streaming of both music and TV. I am guessing you would be better served by ONE multichannel amp and one (separate) pre-amp. If you want to play CDs, I suggest one of the higher end Yamahas. Oh, AND, the speakers preferably should be the same. Yeah, this is a lot to do, but this is the best answer I can give and what I would do if I had Home Theater. Good luck! Drop by a place that specializes in Home Theater and I'm sure they could help you decide how to modify your system.
alice k  Aug 29, 2020
A
I see no issue with this.
donald  Aug 29, 2020
Q
Does mc152 allow Dolby Atmos? RCA connects don't work with Dolby Atmos and possibly other higher end audio signals. Isn't this a huge problem for home theater use?
rick w  Jun 01, 2020
3 answers
A
MC 152 not suitable for Home Theater, but great for audio CDs or vinyl.
alice k  Aug 29, 2020
A
I use the amp to drive a pair of Klipsch Forte III speakers. It is dedicated to audio only.
donald  Jun 01, 2020
A
This is a nice amp, but in my opinion not suitable for home theatre. I myself would look for a multichannel amp, 4 or 5 depending on how many speakers you intend to drive. But, I'm "old school" and am just a straight-up audiophile who enjoys a variety of music. I suppose you could buy another MC152, and use adaptors if the RCA plugs don't work for you. Not sure what it would take to do that, or if that's even possible.
alice k  Jun 01, 2020
Q
Would this amp be too much power for a pair of klipsch 5.5's?
dave  Mar 12, 2020
6 answers
A
Good Lord, no! Go for it.
alice k  Jun 01, 2020
A
Not at all! Go for it. It's a beautiful amp with a great sound.
alice k  Apr 15, 2020
A
Not at all. I have it running kef ls50s and it sounds great!
matthew  Apr 14, 2020
A
No!, the MC152 will not be too much power for your speakers. The Power is so clean and pure, it will not overpower speakers. And you can follow the meters so you can get very loud without going into any clipping or distortion. Beautiful Amp, I highly recommend it!
lee  Apr 14, 2020
A
I am using it to drive Klipsch Forte III speakers with no problems.
donald  Apr 14, 2020
A
Thanks for your question. For information on selecting the best amp I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences between the amp models and help you make the best choice for your system.
kristina  Apr 14, 2020 (Staff)
Q
I am old school. What people call airy or musical worries me. In being too bright sounding. Seems like a lot of people listen to highs and meds. Reproducing music that sounds to me monotone. I like a full-bodied rich warm sound. Seeing how I use only solid-state. And copper interconnects and speaker lines. How does the MC 152 Really Sound. Everyone here emphasizes the power. Okay fine. Is it full-bodied rich sounding with beautiful bass. Or detail for the most part highs and meds? I'm not someone who listens to detail. Although I do. I listen to music first. Does the MC 152 sound rich and full bodied as I've read the MC 301 amp is Warm full body? I've heard great things about Macintosh. Thank you
stereo-1  Dec 14, 2019
3 answers
A
Gee, your question is pretty complicated. I do like the MC152, but I've had it only a short time. Also I recently changed speakers, all power cords and interconnects. I had a five channel 600 watt c-j amp, bi-wired and bi-amped to B & W Nautilus 803s. Also have moved and the acoustics are SO different in this living room. My new speakers are Golden Ear Triton 2 plus. It's almost impossible to answer a question like that without knowing the details of your system. Having said all that, I like the 152, and it seems to match well with my Yamaha CD player and the Tritons. It has good specs, and although it's the first Mc I've had, I trust the company and the reviews. Good bass response. Would be easier for me to address the warmth/sonority it I bought another one and hooked up the B & Ws--NOT gonna happen. I'd be glad to speak with you over the phone, as it would be easier to answer these important questions. I do have decades of experience at a moderately high level of audiophilia. The thing is, and I'm sure you know this, there are SO MANY variables; every time you tweak your system it sounds a little different. If you can arrange to demo the MC at home, that would be ideal. Alice King
alice k  Jan 07, 2020
A
I would say the best word to describe the mc152 is full. I am using it with kef speakers that have been accused of being too bright, but the mc152 brings out a richness in the speakers that has impressed me and anyone else who has listened to them. One piece of advice though, make sure you use a stereo trigger plug. One channel operates the trigger and the second channel does the meter lights. It took me too long to figure that out.
matthew  Jan 06, 2020
A
I've owned MC275 (tube) and MC152 and whole bunch of other amp. Like all the McIntosh amps, they seem to have a sound signature that 1) Very smooth and beautiful mid range especially vocal and natural instruments. 2) Polite treble, kind of laid back, good resolution, and easy listening, never harsh or in your face. 3) Realistic bass with good decay. The base feels solid even with low volume. The MC152 has all the above characteristics and it has very low distortion and
sek  Jan 06, 2020
Q
I would like to connect two mc152 power amps to the c-47 preamp and have two front speakers and two rear speakers but i don't see any input controls on the power amps to balance the sound between the front and the rear. Any thoughts on this?
james  Mar 17, 2018
3 answers
A
Don't see why this should be a problem, assuming all four speakers are the same. I see your question is an old one, just curious, what did you decide??
alice k  Jun 01, 2020
A
Hi James, unfortunately there are no output trims on the c47 to adjust levels between output 1 front and output 2 rear (otherwise known as 2nd room). likewise the mc125 does not have input trims. The c47 is a stereo preamp, not a quadraphonic or surround preamp. Personally I prefer to run all 4 channels at the same level, but I suppose this is highly dependent on your listening room. You may need to build an attenuator for one of the outputs. However this may contaminate the purity of the signal, so be careful.
marc  Mar 31, 2018
A
Just wondering why you think having separate amps is the best route I run a pair of Klipschorns (15" woofers) with 1 About all I know other than before purchasing my Mac
timothy p.  Mar 29, 2018
Q
I see no commentary about 6 ohm speakers, which is what I have.( Mirage 1295is). How would you connect them to this amplifier or are they even compatible? Bill G.
william  May 27, 2017
4 answers
A
They'll be fine; no worries.
alice k  Apr 15, 2020
A
All McIntosh amplifiers have 2, 4 and 8 ohms outputs. Connecting your speakers to the 4 ohm tap will be OK.
alberto  May 27, 2017
A
You need to check with Crutchfield tech or mac to hook up this massive powerhouse of exquisite beauty
galen  May 27, 2017
A
On page 9 of the owner's manual it states: "If the Loudspeaker's impedance is in-between the available connections, use the nearest lower impedance connection."
william  May 27, 2017
Q
Is this a fully balanced design?
sriram  Feb 04, 2017
4 answers
A
yes
alice k  Apr 15, 2020
A
No. it has balanced and no balanced inputs but it is not a fully balanced design.
alberto  Feb 06, 2017
A
I'm not sure what you mean by fully balanced, but it was the right decision for me. I bought the MC152 along with the C47 digital/analog PreAmp so I could play both my analog music (albums) and take advantage of the newer hi-resolution digital music. It was a perfect match for me. The MC152 offers me 150 watts per channel which is more than enough for the room that I placed it in and the quality of music is excellent! Crutchfield was very helpful by answering all my questions and arranging for shipment. I have lifetime tech support through them as well. I couldn't have gotten a better deal anywhere.
thomas  Feb 06, 2017
A
There are balanced and unbalanced inputs, but you cannot use them both at the same time. So, basically, yes: if you select the balanced inputs, it's fully balanced.
james  Feb 06, 2017
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