I wouldn't call the soundstage "holographic" but it is certainly more dimensional than the soundstage that a number of modern SS amps produce. In other words, instead of hearing the equipment (and its colorations), you hear the music. It really shines with acoustic recordings and jazz, where instruments are reproduced with such amazing clarity that they sound eerily like the real thing, as opposed to a mere simulation of the real thing. If I had to describe the sound of this amp in one word, it would be "organic." It reproduces music with very little coloration, although it can be a bit on the warm side at times. I have the MC2505, which is a 250 with a faceplate and power level meters. For $450, you can't possibly ask for more. In return, you got very sweet and non-fatique sound. This amp does lose some details, and the imaging as not as precise. It is hard to keep this because this MC250 will make you very tempted to get the real deal like MC240 and MC275. This is the main reason I have to sell the MC250 quickly after I owned it.ģ) Transitional product: This amp is real good for your money (way better than the Dynaco ST70 and the vintage Accuphase I got) AND will get you ponder how good an true vintage tube amp sounds like. The spades just don't go with those strips. I am using NBS cables, and those spades are tough as diamond. Jut $100-$150 on top, and you get better-than-new sound from this gem.Ģ) The speaker strips drive me nut.
#MCINTOSH MC 250 REVIEW UPDATE#
On top of all those glowing comments made before me, I'd like to add those $0.02 for your considerations:ġ) Be prepared for an update via Audio-Classic if you get this used and non-certified. Only the vintage MC275 ($$$$$$$$$) sounds better than this. This is one of the best vintage amp I owned or auditioned. The bottom end is round and not punchy like some of your other amplifiers. Right away! This amplifier will not satisfy you if you enjoy sub-sonic bass rap stuff. If you can find one of these amplifiers for the right price, purchase it. It looks fabulous paired with my C36 preamplifier and MQ101.
#MCINTOSH MC 250 REVIEW FREE#
I worked at a local stereo store when I was younger and drooled over the McIntosh products traded in for, “upgrades.” I can sit for hours listening to fatigue free music while watching the meters. The warmest section of this amplifier is the mid-bass. Blood Sweat and Tears, Chicago, Tower of Power, etc… hence the horn cabinets. The style of music I appreciated is late 60’s/ 70’s brass rock. I’ve used this amp with my Maggie SMGA’s and now with my Klipsch Quartet (Heritage Series) speakers. The amp sounds better the longer it is played. I normally listen twice a week for a period of 2 hours or longer. This is the best sounding amplifier I have owned.
I also own the 2505 version, with the glass face.