McIntosh MC352 or MC402?


I'm getting ready to jump on the McIntosh bandwagon. I have read wonderful reviews of the MC402 and the MC352 but can't decide which would be a better value. Does the 402 have much of a sonic improvement over the 352? I've read that the 352 is slightly less harsh in the mids and highs but this could be attributed to break in time or the lack thereof. I plan on using whichever amp I choose with a Sunfire Classic Tube Preamp. My source components are a Denon cd player and a Thorens turntable. Speakers are vintage JBL 120Ti's, but I may be upgrading to Thiel 1.6's I would really appreciate any input anyone may have.
donwass65

Showing 1 response by mfslgoldcd

The McIntosh MC402 is the way to go. Tremedous resolution and great smooth top end. Has very natural midrange and explosive bass dynamics. True the MC252 is smaller brother to the MC402 but it's just like having more Horse Power. It's always a good thing when you never know one day the extra current will come in handy if changing to a more inefficient speaker.

Regardless what you may hear, the MC352 is older technology in comparison to the MC402 & MC252 amps. I have talked with the McIntosh rep and called up Binghamton to set the record straight. I had listened to the MC352 several years ago at a dealer and was not impressed. Once I heard the MC402, I was sold immediately. It ended my personal search for a great power amp. I prefer the MC402 over the MC501 monos and many much more expensive amps that I had owned over $20K range,

The Absolute Sound has recently highly recommeded the McIntosh MC402 power amp in there Editor's Choice issue : October , 2008.

The McIntosh MC402 is a bargain in today standards, sure to be a classic short term and long term.