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Mcintosh MC 252 vs. 402

Does anyone have an opinion on the sonic differences between these two amps, other than 150 watts of additional power? My speakers are Spendor S8es, which I'm currently driving pretty well with 130 watts, so I don't think the difference between 250 and 400 watts will be problematic, so it just comes down to sound. Is the MC 402 just more of a good thing or is there actually some discernable qualitative issue?

Thanks!
grimace
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
more of a good thing. a bit more viseral in the bass on somw speakers, otherwise the same neutral character.
tricon_dave
96 posts
 
Check over on the McIntosh forum on AudioKarma. I think you will get varying opinions of the sonic differences.

One consideration I had when trying to decide between these two amps was that the 402 delivers 100 amps of current versus the 50 amps with the 252. With my speakers, that made a difference.

Dave
theo's avatar
theo
2,681 posts
 
The major differences between these two is the 1)power supply is a newer design on the 402 2)the 402 has dual differential circuitry (aka double balanced)which will provide a quieter background. Both are good amps I own a 402 and love it.
goatwuss
877 posts
 
For what it's worth, a local dealer who carries Mac told me that other than the additional WPC for power hungry speakers and large rooms, they sound the same.

I can't verify this personally, as I haven't done a controlled A/B between them.
grimace OP
624 posts
 
thanks for the responses. is anyone out there currently using either of these amps with Spendor S8es?
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