McIntosh has announced an upgrade to its lauded MC302 power amplifier in the form of the new MC312. Like its forebear, the MC312 delivers 300 watts per channel and the ability to drive even difficult 2Ω loads, but thanks to a doubling of its filter capacity, the new model boasts dynamic headroom that's 27 percent greater than the older model
Other improvements include direct LED backlighting for the front panel, upgraded heatsinks, an improved power management system, and more. Pricing is set at $7,000, and the new amp is expected to ship this month.
More directly from McIntosh:
McIntosh, the global leader in prestigious home entertainment and ultimate-quality audio for over 65 years, is proud to announce the MC312 Power Amplifier.
Be prepared for years and years of musical enjoyment with the new MC312 Power Amplifier. Like the MC302 that it replaces, the MC312 is a 300 Watts per channel stereo amplifier and is a great choice to power virtually any home audio system. The full 300 Watts can be delivered to almost any speakers regardless if they have 2, 4 or 8 Ohm impedance thanks to our unique Autoformer technology.
The MC312 has received numerous improvements compared to the MC302. Most notably is that filter capacity has been doubled, which increases dynamic headroom an impressive 27% from 1.8dB to 2.3dB. This increase means the MC312 will be even better suited to handle wide dynamic swings in music. Distortion prevention and bass performance also benefit from the increased filter capacity.
While still looking very much like a McIntosh, the MC312 has received some key design updates. Direct LED backlighting now illuminates the front panel for improved color accuracy. The audio output Autoformers still straddle the power transformer but are now located in new enclosures that are capped by a single cover containing glass inserts that show the wiring diagram for each transformer.
Other updates include the addition of our Monogrammed Heatsinks and our eco-friendly power management system. Numerous circuit components and internal wiring have also been upgraded. Balanced and unbalanced outputs have been added to enable bi-amping or tri-amping speakers; they can also be used to connect to a secondary system if the preamplifier doesn't have enough connections, or to connect a powered subwoofer. The MC312 is packed full of other exclusive McIntosh technologies including: Power Guard, Sentry Monitor, Power Control, and our patented Solid Cinch speaker binding posts.
The MC312 sits on a beautiful polished stainless steel chassis and features the timeless McIntosh black glass front panel, illuminated logo, control knobs, aluminum end caps and a pair of fast responding blue Watt meters.
Pricing and Availability
Orders for the MC312 can now be placed with Authorized McIntosh dealers with shipping expected to begin in October.
Suggested retail price (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded): $7,000 USD
Additional Resources
• Visit the McIntosh Labs website for more product information.
•McIntosh Announces MA252 Integrated Amplifier at HomeTheaterReview.com.
