McIntosh and Autoformers. . .?


What is an Autoformer, and what kind of difference will it make to the sound? I heard some B&W 803's the other day with the McIntosh 402, and it sounded absolutely unreal! I was so impressed, I am thinking of dumping my current SET gear, and going with McIntosh and B&W's.

A freidn tells me that I only want the new McIntosh stuff with the Autoformers. I don't know why. Will the 202 have similar sonic characteristics to the 402? What about the 6900?

Thanks!

B
hantrax

Showing 1 response by theo

My experience is that I had and still use a MC7205 multi channel amp and I purchased a MC352 about a year ago. The 7205 always sounded good and I was satisfied with all but the power. So I stepped up to the 352 for the front end and WOW!!! What a difference, my understanding from discussions with McIntosh is that the Autoformer uses three "tap in" areas of the output transformer. This permits Mc to produce an amp that is a consistant 350 watts at 2-4-or 8 ohms. Rather than have one output you pick up in three areas which like having three individual output transformers. I don't understand why no other manufacturer hasn't picked up on this technology or a variation of that. I just can't say enough about Mc amps. I also use a MX134 pre/pro and my sincere belief is that I will always own at least Mc amps.