Looking for a McIntosh amp that gives a great example of the “McIntosh Sound”


What is a good vintage or newer amp that has that “McIntosh sound” everyone loves.  My budget is $3k and I want to stay solid state.  I don’t want to debate McIntosh, I am looking specifically for McIntosh.  The amp will be powering JM Lab Mini Utopias.

128x128justinrphillips

I had a McIntosh MC152 and it definitely has the McIntosh house sound. It is a 150wpc powerhouse, dead quiet and a great amp.   I only moved up to the MC302 because I got a deal I just couldn’t pass up.  The MC152 has the output transformers which is a big part of their house sound.   I got mine for $3400 @ Audio Classics in 2018. 

Desirable piece at a good value price point. I want one...

Justin, maybe 2023 is the year we both end up with a 152.

302 is awesome. I'm very curious about the MI502.