McIntosh – MC152 Power Amplifier

Immense Power, Controlled Bass, Standout Dynamics, and a Conservatively Rated 150Wpc: MC152 Power Amp Offers Signature McIntosh Sound, Blue Meters, Proprietary Autoformer, More

Leave it to the audio gods at McIntosh to deem the MC152, a 75-pound and conservatively rated 150Wpc power amplifier complete with the company’s legendary blue meters, an “entry-level” piece of gear. Nothing about the incredibly powerful MC152 is entry-level. Named Amplifier of the Year and given an “outstanding” 5-globe review from Hi-Fi World, the expansive-sounding MC152 offers immense power, controlled bass, and a finesse marked by smooth, natural tonality. Equally at home with guitar-driven rock or epic classical orchestrations, MC152 reproduces music with the kind of dynamics, colors, and imaging that takes you into the performance. This U.S.A.-built component delivers high-end levels of detail, punch, and spaciousness that belie its price.

“Iconic looks matched with a big, expansive and detailed sound make the MC152 one of the best power amplifiers you’ll hear at its price. Highly recommended.”
– Hi-Fi World, Amplifier of the Year Award and 5-globe “outstanding” review

No wonder Hi-Fi World measured MC152 at providing 253 watts into an 8-ohm load and 225 watts into 4 ohms. Touting supremely low distortion at all frequencies and able to drive practically anything, MC152 features McIntosh‘s unique output Autoformer technology that ensures every speaker receives full power regardless of its impedance. Proprietary Power Guard circuitry eliminates clipping and prevents distortion, while a Sentry Monitor acts as a short-circuit protection device. McIntosh’s unmistakable glass faceplate, distinctive Blue Watt meters, fiber-optic front-panel illumination, balanced and unbalanced outputs, and patented gold-plated binding posts all come standard. Backed by our 100% Music Direct Guarantee, MC152 will instill a sense of pride and happiness that no dollar amount can measure.

An Unparalleled Heritage of Prestigious Craftsmanship
McIntosh has been handmaking world-class audio equipment for seven decades. Each component is produced in the same upstate New York factory the company has called home for 60 years. Recognized and revered around the globe, McIntosh continues to set new standards for high-end performance, unstinting reliability, and product longevity. Its storied tradition of ingenuity, craftsmanship, pride, and service is shared by only the most iconic American brands. In an era where manufacturing shortcuts and outsourcing are the norm, McIntosh takes a no-compromise approach defined by hands-on workmanship, singular expertise, and an unabated passion for being the best in its field. These rarified characteristics set McIntosh apart. While most audio companies emulate the competition, McIntosh leads by living up to – and exceeding – its own benchmarks. That’s the mark of a legend.

Like None Other: Iconic Blue Watt Meters and Black Faceplates
The gentle glow of McIntosh’s signature Blue Watt meters tells you that you own a legend – and that you made the right choice. Those soft blue lights convey comfort, coolness, and character. Known even to non-audiophiles, McIntosh’s stylish meters also serve a practical purpose that guards against speaker damage. They’re one of many unique elements distinctive to every McIntosh product. McIntosh’s namesake black faceplates claim an equally famous pedigree. Whether 1/4-inch or 1/8-inch thick, every glass faceplate is cut with garnet dust to diminish friction and guarantee a perfect finish. The unrivaled appearance further owes to the application of 12 layers of paint and final examination by a white-gloved specialist. This combination of personal care, old-school values, and human involvement exemplifies what makes McIntosh different – and better.

Handmade for Everyone That Appreciates the Superiority of Hands-On Artistry
McIntosh’s handcrafted ethic predates by more than half a century the handcrafted movement currently re-defining the beer, food, furniture, jewelry, and soap industries. From patrons of farm-to-table restaurants to fans of limited-batch beer, people increasingly realize the importance and superiority of handcrafted goods in their everyday life. Whether it’s the exacting detail afforded the PC boards, the meticulous attention paid to the hand-wound transformer coils, or the innovation behind patented Power Guard circuitry, McIntosh shares in the same belief. Rather than cut corners or adhere to mass-produced construction, McIntosh only puts its name on components that deliver paragon experiences by way of their unassailable artistry and precision-minded quality. While McIntosh products don’t come cheap, they stand out – and stand the test of time – in a world flooded by homogeneity and inferiority.

Aspire to Own an American Icon
McIntosh amplifiers broadcast President Lyndon Johnson’s inauguration speech and powered the original Woodstock festival. Nearly 29,000 watts of McIntosh power fueled the Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound, regarded by many as the finest-sounding concert system ever devised. McIntosh has assisted in the recording of some of history’s most celebrated albums, including the Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds. David Bowie collaborator/noted producer Tony Visconti and Dead guitarist/singer Bob Weir are among the countless McIntosh devotees. Thousands of older McIntosh components remain active in systems, having been built to last a lifetime. The history is clear: With McIntosh, you’re not only considering today but planning for endless tomorrows. McIntosh is legacy audio you bequeath to future generations. The reason wish lists exists, McIntosh is the dream you aspire to own and, once you do, you cherish forever.