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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
brianmgrarcom
1,317 posts
 
I suspect you'd be splitting hairs with these two and we in this hobby are good at making more of something than need be. That said, one thing comes to mind, does the MC352 use the newer optics for lighting or the older bulbs? This may seem trivial to some, but not having ro concern oneselves with bulbs may mean more to some than others. Contact Audio Classics, they seem well informed on both amps.

You may also want to consider the MC252. This amp is also thought well of; I believe some feel it is sonically the same as the 402 just less powerful.

Brian
aball
2,016 posts
 
Better value is obviously the 352. The 402 has a bit more dynamics and detail compared to the 352 - but you will only hear this difference if the rest of your system is resolving enough....

The 352 uses light bulbs which will need replacement every couple years. No big deal IMO - I have always rebulbed my McIntoshes myself, and the amps are the easiest ones to do.

Arthur
klipschfan
176 posts
 
MC352 with the led light kit from Audio Classics is the better bang for the buck. Give Ernie a call and he will help you determine what will fit your needs.

352/402-both are fully balanced-352 bulbs-402 led's
252-not fully balanced-led's

Happy McHunting
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