FREE next day delivery over £50 – order by 3pm

Saturday delivery available in the basket

Hi-fi experts since 1947 · 14-day returns

In stock

McIntosh MA252 2-Channel Hybrid Integrated Amplifier

  • Hybrid Design: Unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern technology, combining vacuum tube...
  • Powerful Output: Delivers 100W per channel into 8 Ohms and 160W per channel...
  • Versatile Inputs: 2 unbalanced, 1 balanced, and 1 Moving Magnet phono input for...
  • Analog Tone Controls: Bass and treble controls for precise audio customization, maintaining an all-analog...
  • Subwoofer Output: Full-range subwoofer output for seamless integration with powered subwoofers, enhancing low-frequency...
  • Power Guard® Technology: First vacuum tube product with McIntosh's patented Power Guard technology, preventing...

Buy online with confidence

79 years of hi-fi expertise · established 1947

Genuine UK stock with full manufacturer warranty, free next day delivery over £50 and 14-day returns. Need help? Our experts are on 0115 975 8613.

£5,890.00

Order this by phone or in our Nottingham showroom. Call us and we'll reserve it, answer any questions and arrange delivery or collection.

Call to order · 0115 975 8613 Send us a message
Manufacturer warranty
Genuine UK stock, full cover
14-day returns
Hassle-free if unused
Secure checkout
All major cards accepted
Hi-fi experts since 1947
Real advice, before and after you buy

Questions? Call our experts on 0115 975 8613 or send a message.

McIntosh  |  SKU: 64709

Why you'll love the McIntosh MA252

The benefits that matter, at a glance.

Hybrid Design

: Unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern technology, combining vacuum tube preamplifier (12AX7a and 12AT7) with a powerful solid-state output stage.

Powerful Output

: Delivers 100W per channel into 8 Ohms and 160W per channel into 4 Ohms, ensuring robust and efficient amplification.

Versatile Inputs

: 2 unbalanced, 1 balanced, and 1 Moving Magnet phono input for turntables, offering flexibility in connecting multiple audio sources.

Analog Tone Controls

: Bass and treble controls for precise audio customization, maintaining an all-analog signal path.

Subwoofer Output

: Full-range subwoofer output for seamless integration with powered subwoofers, enhancing low-frequency performance.

Power Guard® Technology

: First vacuum tube product with McIntosh's patented Power Guard technology, preventing clipping and protecting speakers.

Monogrammed Heatsinks™

: Connected to high-current output transistors, eliminating warm-up time for instant peak operating condition.

Sentry Monitor™ and High Drive Headphone Amp

: Ensures smooth system operation and accommodates headphone enthusiasts.

Overview

Unveiling McIntosh's First Hybrid Marvel

Introducing the McIntosh MA252 Integrated Amplifier, a groundbreaking hybrid that seamlessly marries vintage tube aesthetics with cutting-edge solid-state technology. Taking design cues from the legendary McIntosh MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier, the MA252 is a visual and sonic masterpiece, delivering an unparalleled audio experience.

A Symphony of Hybrid Design

The MA252 boasts a unique hybrid design, incorporating a vacuum tube preamp and a solid-state power amp. With 100 Watts into 8 Ohms and 160 Watts into 4 Ohms, this amplifier strikes the perfect balance between tube romanticism and solid-state resolution.

Acclaimed by Audiophiles

Praised by audio enthusiasts, the MA252 has earned accolades for its captivating blend of tube allure and solid-state authority. Described as a "special component by any standard," it effortlessly connects listeners to the music, embodying the true essence of a musical sound.

Unmatched Preamplifier and Output Stage

The preamplifier stage features two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 vacuum tubes, protected by stylish cages. The output stage, a direct-coupled solid-state amplifier, delivers 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers and 160 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers.

Analog Elegance with User-Friendly Features

Featuring an all-analog design, the MA252 includes 2 unbalanced, 1 balanced, and 1 Moving Magnet phono input for turntables. User-friendly naming of inputs simplifies control. Bass and treble tone controls allow fine-tuning, while a full-range subwoofer output enhances low frequencies.

McIntosh Signature Technologies

The MA252 showcases McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™ connected to advanced high-current output transistors, eliminating warm-up time. Patented Power Guard® technology ensures real-time adjustments to prevent clipping. Additional McIntosh technologies include Sentry Monitor™, High Drive headphone amplifier, and gold-plated speaker binding posts.

Intuitive Controls and Display

Front panel knobs and the included remote control facilitate easy adjustments of input selection, bass, treble, tone bypass, balance, and input offset levels. All settings are displayed on the OLED display, ensuring an intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Elegant Chassis and Iconic Design

Resting upon a polished stainless steel chassis, the MA252 exudes elegance. Classic McIntosh-styled die-cast aluminum name badges adorn each side, showcasing a timeless design that pays homage to McIntosh's storied legacy.

Specifications

FeatureDetails
Power Output per Channel
100 Watts into 8 Ohms

160 Watts into 4 Ohms
Number of Channels2
Speaker Impedance4 or 8 Ohms
Rated Power Band20Hz to 20kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion0.03%
Dynamic Headroom1.8dB
Frequency Response +0,-0.5dB20Hz to 20kHz
Frequency Response, +0, -3dB10Hz to 100kHz
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Coil)N/A
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet)3.0mV
Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced)0.6V/0.3V
Sensitivity (Power Amp input)N/A
Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Coil)N/A
Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Magnet)80dB
Signal To Noise Ratio (High Level)97dB
Signal To Noise Ratio (Power Amp input)N/A
Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced)20K/20K
Damping Factor
8 Ohms: >200

4 Ohms: >100
Maximum Output (Balanced / Unbalanced)8V Unbalanced
CONNECTIVITY
Balanced Input1
Unbalanced Input2
Phono Input Moving Coil0
Phono Input Moving Magnet1 (fixed loading)
Upgradeable Digital Audio ModuleNo
Digital Coaxial Input0
Digital Optical Input0
Digital MCT (DIN) Input0
Digital USB Input0
HDMI (ARC) Input0
Balanced Variable Output0
Unbalanced Fixed Output0
Unbalanced Variable Output0
Headphone Output1/4″ High Drive
Subwoofer Output1 (mono)
AM/FM Tuner optionNo
Home Theater PassThruNo
Unbalanced Analog Connector TypeStandard
Speaker Binding Post TypeStandard
Service Port0
DIGITAL AUDIO SPECIFICATIONS
Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) TypeN/A
Digital Coaxial Input Sample RateN/A
Digital Optical Input Sample RateN/A
Digital MCT (DIN) Input Sample RateN/A
Digital USB Input Sample RateN/A
CONTROL
Tone ControlsBass and Treble
Tone Bypass and Input AssignYes
RS232 Control InputNo
Power Control Output1
Rear Panel Data Port1
Rear Panel IR Sensor InputNo
Input Level MatchYes
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Vacuum Tube or Solid State
Preamplifier: Vacuum Tube

Power Amplifier: Solid State
Output TypeDirect Coupled
Output MetersNo
Dual Layer ChassisYes
Chassis FinishPolished stainless steel
McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™Yes
Power Requirement120V 50/60Hz, 3.7A
Standby Power Requirement<0.5 Watts
WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS
Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)12″ (30.5cm) x 7-5/8″ (19.4cm) x 16-1/2″ (41.9cm)
Unit Weight28 lbs (12.7 kg)
Shipping Weight37 lbs (16.8 kg)

In the box

  • McIntosh MA252
  • Remote Control
  • User Manual

Not sure what you need?

Tell us about your room and kit, and our team will build you a matched system, at no extra cost.

Call 0115 975 8613 →

Free next day delivery

Free next day delivery on orders over £50 – order by 3pm. Saturday delivery available in the basket.

Genuine UK stock

Every product comes with the full UK manufacturer warranty.

14-day returns

Changed your mind? Send it back unused within 14 days.

Experts since 1947

Real advice before and after you buy. Call 0115 975 8613.

McIntosh MA252 – frequently asked questions

How quickly can I get the McIntosh MA252?

It is in stock now. Order by 3pm Monday to Friday and it arrives the next working day, free on orders over £50. Saturday delivery is available as an option in the basket.

What comes in the box with the McIntosh MA252?

McIntosh MA252, Remote Control, User Manual ,

What warranty does the McIntosh MA252 come with?

It is genuine UK stock and comes with the full McIntosh UK manufacturer warranty, so you are fully covered.

Can I return the McIntosh MA252 if I change my mind?

Yes. You can return it unused in its original packaging within 14 days of delivery. See our returns policy.

Still got a question about the McIntosh MA252? Call 0115 975 8613 or send us a message.

Delivery

Free next day delivery on UK orders over £50 – order by 3pm Monday to Friday. Saturday delivery available in the basket.

Returns

14-day hassle-free returns on unused items in original packaging. Returns policy

Collect in store

Unit 8, Dillion Court, Gamble Street, Nottingham NG7 4EX. Free parking outside.