The first hybrid integrated amplifier from McIntosh has been announced, the the MA252 Integrated Amplifier.

The MA252 Integrated Amplifier is the first hybrid integrated amplifier from McIntosh. Taking retro design cues from the legendary McIntosh MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier, McIntosh say that “the MA252 combines the best of vacuum tube and solid-state circuit design to create an amplifier that’s both visually and sonically stunning”.

The preamplifier stage uses two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 vacuum tubes housed inside stylish protective cages; the output stage is a direct coupled solid-state amplifier that delivers 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 160 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers. An all analogue design, it comes with 2 unbalanced, 1 balanced and 1 Moving Magnet phono input. All 4 inputs can be given user-friendly names in order to simplify user control. Bass and treble tone controls help fine tune the music. A full range subwoofer output is included for use with a powered subwoofer.

The MA252 features McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™ which are connected to advanced high current output transistors. These transistors eliminate the typical amplifier warm-up time. A control microprocessor is used for smooth system operation, along with some of the latest audio-grade circuit components.

McIntosh went on to say: ‘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 the speakers. If Power Guard is activated, the 2 vacuum tubes connected to the affected audio channel(s) will flash an amber colour; they will return to their normal green colour when the clipping has stopped’.

Other McIntosh technologies found in the MA252 include Sentry Monitor™, High Drive headphone amplifier and gold-plated speaker binding posts. Input selection, bass, treble, tone bypass, balance and input offset levels can be adjusted using the front panel knobs or the included remote control; all settings and input selection will be shown on the OLED display. The entire unit sits atop a polished stainless steel chassis with a classic McIntosh-styled die cast aluminium name badge attached to each side.

Pricing and Availability
Orders for the MA252 can now be placed with shipping expected to begin in November.

Suggested retail price (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded): $3,500 USD and £4500 in the UK.