2. amps-preamps
  3. 170011-166123

Bought a new McIntosh amp

Hello folks !
I just bought a new MC152 and now having doubts about my decision. I currently have Rotel RB-1552 mkII / RC1572 setup driving a pair of Paradigm 800f. I have not opened the sealed box yet because I’m thinking of returning the amp to be exchanged for new speakers (Klipsch) and an Rotel RB-1582 amp (more power 200w p/c).
While at Audio Advice store, I went in another demo room and listened to a Heresy IV driven by a different McIntosh setup ( MC462) and I was impressed but the mind was still on the path of getting the mc152 instead of replacing speakers.
Is it safe bet to just keep the mc152 and get a feel of speaker change later ?
I’d like to hear opinions good or bad about the MC152. Thanks !


switchman
mrklas
441 posts
 
MC 462 and MC 152 are drastically different amps.  I currently have MC302 amp and have heard both MC 462 and MC 152.    

I'd equate the MC 152 great for the office but not for my primary system.  

I'd certainly evaluate other options at the price point of the MC 152.
knotscott's avatar
knotscott
1,075 posts
 
I'd be forever curious how the new amp sounded in my system, and there's only one way to find out.  ;-)

switchman OP
7 posts
 
I do realized mc462 and mc152 are different, price is almost double with the 462. Budget is the limiting factor here.
avanti1960
1,541 posts
 
The MC152 is a very nice sounding amp and actually one of the best matches for Klipsch Heritage speakers. 
It tests at 190 wpc at clipping.  
it gets disrespect because it isn't a Mac behemoth but so what.  
open and enjoy.  maybe get a good tube preamp.  
ps Rotel is not good imho.   
yakbob
487 posts
 
My thoughts as a McIntosh owner and long time fan. Make one change at a time, and if you're considering Klipsch Heresy IVs, start there.

Try the Klipsch out with your current Rotel amp (that extra 50 watts is unlikely to matter with the efficiency of the Heresy) and your 150watt Rotel  is plenty of power for that speaker. Then, figure out what you want in a new amp once you really know the speakers (more thrust, higher damping factor, softer or brighter signature, tubes?)

I'd bring the MC152 back, and take some time to consider what I really want in my next amp. I'm sure the MC152 is worthy of owning, but you'll probably get more mileage from a speaker swap.

More to discover