McIntosh has launched the MC312 Power Amplifier, a 300-watt US-made stereo amp that, say McIntosh, introduces numerous improvements over the MC302 which it replaces. The MC312 Power Amplifier features several internal upgrades in addition to some design updates.

Improvements over its predecessor, the MC302, include doubling the filter capacity and many circuit components have been upgraded, along with the internal wiring. Balanced and unbalanced outputs have been added to enable bi-amping or tri-amping speakers; these can also be used to connect to a secondary system if the preamplifier doesn’t have enough connections or to connect a powered subwoofer.

The MC312 also contains a number of additional McIntosh technologies including: Power Guard®; Sentry Monitor™; Power Control and McIntosh’s patented Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts.

The MC312 has received some design updates, too. The audio output Autoformers, whilst still straddling the power transformer, are now located in new enclosures capped by a single cover, with glass inserts detailing the wiring diagram for each transformer.

Other design updates include the addition of McIntosh’s exclusive Monogrammed Heatsinks™, an eco-friendly power management system and direct LED backlighting illuminating the front panel.

The MC312 has a polished stainless steel chassis and features the McIntosh black glass front panel with illuminated logo, control knobs, aluminium end-caps and a pair of fast-responding blue Watt meters. Price is at £9,995 or $7,000 in the USA.

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