MA252

About the MA252

The McIntosh MA252 is a two-channel hybrid integrated amplifier combining vacuum tube preamp sections with solid-state power amplification using McIntosh's patented Hybrid Drive technology. It delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts into 4 ohms with a frequency response of 10 Hz to 100 kHz and very low distortion (0.03% THD). The preamp stage uses two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 vacuum tubes, while the power stage is solid-state. It features McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks connected to high-current output transistors that eliminate warm-up time, Power Guard technology to prevent clipping and protect speakers, Sentry Monitor and Thermal Protection circuits for reliability, and a built-in High Drive headphone amplifier supporting headphones from 20 to 600 ohms. Inputs include one balanced XLR, two unbalanced RCA line-level inputs, and an RCA phono input for moving magnet cartridges. Outputs include gold-plated binding posts for speakers, a 1/4" headphone jack, and a mono subwoofer output. The amplifier offers adjustable bass and treble controls per input, tone control bypass, input trim adjustments, and an OLED front panel display showing source, volume, and settings. It comes with a remote control and has a polished stainless steel chassis with an illuminated glass front panel. Dimensions are approximately 12" W x 7-5/8" H x 18" D, weighing 28 lbs. It includes a 3-year amplifier warranty and 90-day tube warranty.