McIntosh MA252 Integrated Amplifier: Hybrid Tube Amplifier for 2-Channel HiFi

The McIntosh MA252 is a 2-channel hybrid integrated amplifier for classic HiFi systems. It combines a tube preamplifier with a solid-state power amplifier and is aimed at music lovers who are looking for analog sources, powerful amplification, and easy operation in one device.

Tube Preamplifier and Solid-State Power Amplifier Explained Simply

The preamplifier operates with two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 tubes. The power amplifier is directly coupled and built with solid-state technology.

This combination connects the character of a tube preamplifier with the performance of a transistor power amplifier. In everyday terms, this means: music reproduction with analog character, controlled speaker drive, and stable performance.

Why do tube amplifiers sound better?

Tube amplifiers don't fundamentally sound better, but different. The sound is often described as "warm". With the McIntosh MA252, the advantage lies in the hybrid design: the tube preamplifier shapes the sound, while the solid-state power amplifier provides control, resolution, and power.

Analog Integrated Amplifier with Four Inputs

The MA252 has a completely analog design. It offers two unbalanced inputs, one balanced input, and a Moving Magnet phono input.

This allows HiFi sources such as CD players, streamers with analog output, or turntables to be directly integrated.

Phono Input for Turntables

The integrated Moving Magnet phono input makes the MA252 interesting for vinyl listeners. A turntable with an MM system or high-output MC system can be connected directly.

There is no dedicated MC phono input for operation with Moving Coil cartridges. This is important if such a cartridge is to be used.

Adjust Sound to Room and Taste

Bass and treble can be adjusted directly on the device or via the included remote control. The tone control helps to fine-tune recordings, speakers, or room acoustics.

Those who prefer unaltered reproduction can use the Tone Bypass. This keeps operation simple, without sacrificing adjustment options.

Subwoofer Output for More Bass

A mono subwoofer output is available. This allows an active subwoofer to be integrated into the 2-channel system.

Headphone Connection Available

The MA252 has a 1/4-inch High Drive headphone output. It is designed for headphones with 20 to 600 ohms.

Protection Functions for Amplifier and Speakers

Power Guard monitors the output signal and intervenes if overdriving threatens. This is intended to prevent harsh-sounding clipping, which can damage speakers.

Sentry Monitor and thermal protection circuits additionally protect against critical operating conditions. In everyday use, this is particularly relevant when the amplifier is used for extended periods or when demanding speakers are operated.

How long does a tube amplifier need to warm up?

No specific warm-up time is given for the McIntosh MA252. The Monogrammed Heatsinks are connected to high-current output transistors and are designed to eliminate the typical amplifier warm-up time.

The tube LEDs show orange in warm-up mode and green in normal operation.

What warranty applies to McIntosh MA252?

The McIntosh MA252 comes with a standard 3-year warranty.

Operation via Front, Display, and Remote Control

Input selection, volume, bass, treble, balance, Tone Bypass, and level adjustment can be controlled via the front controls or the included remote control.

The OLED display shows input, settings, and operating states. This simplifies operation without the need for technical prior knowledge.

Design with Stainless Steel Chassis and Tube Optics

The MA252 sits on a polished stainless steel chassis. The visible tubes with protective cages, the McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks, and the side aluminum nameplates pick up classic McIntosh design elements.

The design is not only optically striking but also makes the amplifier's hybrid construction directly recognizable.

Specifications

General

• Product Name: McIntosh MA252 Integrated Amplifier
• Product Type: 2-Channel Hybrid Integrated Amplifier
• Application: 2-Channel Audio Systems / HiFi
• Channels: 2
• Design: Tube Preamp and Solid-State Power Amp
• Preamp Tube Complement: 2 × 12AX7a, 2 × 12AT7
• Output Stage: Directly Coupled Solid-State Power Amplifier
• Dimensions: 12" × 7-5/8" × 16-1/2" / 30.5 × 19.4 × 41.9 cm
• Weight: 28 lbs / 12.7 kg
• Shipping Weight: 37 lbs / 16.8 kg
• Frequency Response: +0, -0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Frequency Response: +0, -3 dB from 10 Hz to 100 kHz
• Chassis: Polished Stainless Steel
• Dual Layer Chassis: Yes
• McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™: Yes

Performance

• FTC Power Output Rating: 100 W
• Power Per Channel: 100 W into 8 Ohms
• Power Per Channel: 160 W into 4 Ohms
• Speaker Impedance: 8 Ohms or 4 Ohms
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.03 %
• Intermodulation Distortion: 0.03 %
• Dynamic Headroom: 1.8 dB
• Damping Factor: >200 into 8 Ohms
• Damping Factor: >100 into 4 Ohms
• Power Guard: Less than 2% THD with up to 16 dB Overdrive at 1,000 Hz

Inputs

• Total Analog Inputs: 4
• Balanced Input: 1
• Unbalanced Inputs: 2
• Moving Magnet Phono Input: 1, Fixed Load
• Moving Coil Phono Input: 0 / N/A
• Phono Moving Magnet Sensitivity: 3.0 mV
• High Level Sensitivity: 0.6 V Balanced / 0.3 V Unbalanced
• Input Impedance Balanced / Unbalanced: 20K / 20K
• Phono Input Impedance: 47K Ohm; 50 pF
• Maximum Input Signal High Level: 4 V Unbalanced / 8 V Balanced
• Maximum Input Signal Phono: 40 mV

Digital Connections

• Upgradeable Digital Audio Module: No
• DAC: N/A
• Digital Coaxial Input: 0
• Digital Optical Input: 0
• Digital MCT Input: 0
• Digital USB Input: 0
• HDMI ARC Input: 0

Outputs

• Speaker Terminals: Standard Speaker Binding Posts
• Headphone Output: 1/4" High Drive
• Headphone Impedance: 20 to 600 Ohms
• Subwoofer Output: 1 Mono
• SUB Mono Output: 1.7 V Unbalanced, 6 V Maximum
• SUB Mono Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
• Balanced Variable Output: 0
• Unbalanced Fixed Output: 0
• Unbalanced Variable Output: 0
• Maximum Output: 8 V Unbalanced

Tone Control and Operation

• Tone Control: Bass and Treble
• Bass: ±10 dB in 1 dB steps at 70 Hz
• Treble: ±10 dB in 1 dB steps at 10,000 Hz
• Tone Bypass: Yes
• Input Assign: Yes
• Input Level Match: Yes
• OLED Display: Shows Settings and Input Selection
• Remote Control: Included

Control

• Power Control Output: 1
• Power Control Output: 12 VDC, 25 mA
• Rear Panel Data Port: 1
• RS232 Control Input: No
• Rear Panel IR Sensor Input: No
• AM/FM Tuner Option: No
• Home Theater PassThru: No
• Service Port: 0

Protection Features

• Power Guard®: Yes
• Sentry Monitor™: Yes
• Thermal Protection Circuits: Yes
• Protection Indicator: Tube LEDs illuminate Orange when Protection Circuit is Activated; Green in Normal Operation

Power Supply

• Rated Power Requirements: 120 V, 50/60 Hz, 3.7 A
• Other Factory Configured Voltage Variants in the Manual: 100 V, 110 V, 120 V, 220 V, 230 V, 240 V
• Standby Power Consumption: <0.5 W

Warranty Period

• Warranty Period: 3 Years Manufacturer's Warranty

Scope of Delivery

• McIntosh MA252
• Remote Control including Batteries
• Tube Protection Covers
• Power Cable
• Special Wrench for Tightening Speaker Binding Posts
• Documents

• Broschüre
• Anleitung
• Sicherheitsanweisung