McIntosh has announced the MC462 Quad Balanced Power Amplifier. The MC462 replaces the MC452 as the American brand’s most powerful stereo amplifier. Like the MC452, the MC462 features an output of 450 Watts per channel. With a dedicated McIntosh Autoformer™ connected to each audio channel, the full 450 Watts is available to any speaker regardless if it has 2, 4 or 8 Ohm impedance.

The new generation MC462 has received numerous updates. The most prominent is that filter capacity has been increased by nearly 50%, which has resulted in a 66% increase in dynamic headroom from 1.8dB to 3.0dB. Bass performance is also improved as a result of the filter capacity increase. McIntosh’s eco-friendly power management system has been added, while internal wiring and select circuit components have also been upgraded.

Aesthetically, the MC462 retains all the hallmarks of a McIntosh amplifier with a few modern enhancements. The front panel now has direct LED backlighting that improves colour accuracy and appearance. The two audio Autoformers and single power transformer are housed in new enclosures topped by a single machined cover with glass inserts. The back half of the amplifier is home to four Monogrammed Heatsinks™ which connect to advanced high current output transistors. Besides these updates, the MC462 also features other McIntosh technologies including: Power Guard®, Sentry Monitor™, Quad Balanced design, Power Control, and our patented Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts.

Balanced and unbalanced outputs make bi-amping or tri-amping speakers easier; they can also be used to send the audio signal to a secondary system or to connect a powered subwoofer. The MC462 sits on a beautiful polished stainless steel chassis and features the McIntosh black glass front panel, illuminated logo, control knobs, aluminium handles and a pair of blue Watt meters. Suggested retail price (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded): $9,000 USD

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