Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Classic McIntosh design with iconic blue meters and glass faceplate
- High build quality and attention to detail, using the same craftsmanship as their more expensive components
- Warm, rich, and detailed sound signature
- Versatile connectivity options, including analog, digital, and phono inputs
- Modular digital board allows for future upgrades, preventing obsolescence
Product Considerations
- Speaker binding posts are arranged inconveniently
- Other inputs could benefit from a little extra spacing
- The MA5300 is one of the smaller and less expensive McIntosh products
- On the McIntosh scale, the MA5300 is one of their smallest products, but it still weighs almost 40 pounds
Takeaway: The MA5300 offers the classic Macintosh look and sound with a future-proof design thanks to its modular digital board. It is a solid performer that will outlive many other components and never go out of style.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
MA5300
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
Electronic Specifications
- FTC Power Output Rating
- 100 W
- Power Output per Channel
- 100 W into 8 ohms
- 160 W into 4 ohms
- Number of Channels
- 2
- Rated Power Band
- 20Hz to 20kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion
- 0.005%
- Dynamic Headroom
- 1.8dB
- Frequency Response +0,-0.5dB
- 20Hz to 20kHz
- Frequency Response, +0, -3dB
- 10Hz to 100kHz
- Sensitivity Phono (Moving Coil)
- N/A
- Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet)
- 2.5mV
- Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced)
- 0.5V/0.25V
- Sensitivity (Power Amp input)
- 1V
- Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Coil)
- N/A
- Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Magnet)
- 82dB
- Signal To Noise Ratio (High Level)
- 95dB
- Signal To Noise Ratio (Power Amp input)
- 110dB
- Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced)
- 20K/20K
- Damping Factor
- 8 ohms: >200
- 4 ohms: >100
- Maximum Output (Balanced / Unbalanced)
- 8V Unbalanced
Connectivity
- Balanced Input
- 1
- Unbalanced Input
- 4
- Phono Input Moving Coil
- 0
- Phono Input Moving Magnet
- 1 (fixed loading)
- Upgradeable Digital Audio Module
- Yes: DA1
- Digital Coaxial Input
- 2
- Digital Optical Input
- 2
- Digital MCT Input
- 1
- Digital USB Input
- 1
- HDMI (ARC) Input
- 0
- Balanced Variable Output
- 0
- Unbalanced Fixed Output
- 0
- Unbalanced Variable Output
- 1
- Headphone Output
- 1/4" High Drive with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)
- Subwoofer Output
- 0
- AM/FM Tuner option
- No
- Home Theater PassThru
- Yes
- Unbalanced Analog Connector Type
- Standard
- Speaker Binding Post Type
- Standard
- Service Port
- 1
Digital Audio Specifications
- Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) Type
- 8-channel, 32-bit/384kHz PCM/DSD, Quad Balanced
- Digital Coaxial Input Sample Rate
- 24-bit/44.1kHz to 192kHz
- Digital Optical Input Sample Rate
- 24-bit/44.1kHz to 192kHz
- Digital MCT Input Sample Rate
- 16-bit/44.1kHz (CD)
- DSD64 (SACD)
- Digital USB Input Sample Rate
- 32-bit/44.1kHz to 384kHz (PCM)
- DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DXD352.8kHz, DXD384kHz
Control
- Tone Controls
- Bass and Treble
- Tone Bypass and Input Assign
- Yes
- RS232 Control Input
- Yes
- Power Control Output
- 1 Main
- Rear Panel Data Port
- 2
- Rear Panel IR Sensor Input
- Yes
- Input Level Match
- Yes
General Specifications
- Vacuum Tube or Solid State
- Solid State
- Output Type
- Direct Coupled
- Output Meters
- Yes
- Dual Layer Chassis
- Yes
- Chassis Finish
- Black painted steel
- McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™
- Yes
- Power Requirement
- 120V 50/60Hz, 2.3A
- Standby Power Requirement
- <0.25 Watts
Weights & Dimensions
- Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)
- 17-1/2" (44.45cm) x 6" (15.2cm) x 18-3/4" (47.6cm)
- Unit Weight
- 38 lbs (17.2 kg)
- Shipping Weight
- 55.5 lbs (25.2 kg)
Description
The MA5300 Integrated Amplifier is proof that big sound can come in small packages. It is our smallest solid state integrated amplifier in terms of both power output and physical size, making it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or for someone just beginning to assemble a home audio system. It's a direct coupled amplifier that delivers 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 160 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers.
The MA5300 Integrated Amplifier is proof that big sound can come in small packages. It is our smallest solid state integrated amplifier in terms of both power output and physical size, making it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or for someone just beginning to assemble a home audio system. It’s a direct coupled amplifier that delivers 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 160 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers. New dual scale blue Watt meters give an accurate readout of power output for both 4 and 8 Ohm impedances.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- McIntosh products blend classic, retro aesthetics, reminiscent of their 1970s designs, with modern materials and cutting-edge internal components, offering a unique visual appeal.
- The brand's amplifiers are known for their substantial power output, often exceeding specifications, and their ability to drive a wide range of speakers across varying impedance levels due to their unique Autoformer technology.
- McIntosh offers a high degree of customization and control through features like multi-band equalizers, adjustable input sensitivity, and advanced settings accessible via dedicated apps or web interfaces.
- They distinguish themselves with a focus on long-term reliability and customer satisfaction, with products built to last for decades and supported by a dedicated dealer network.
Select products
Select product comparisons
MHT300
- Positioning: Positioned as a versatile home theater receiver in McIntosh's lineup, suitable for custom installations or standalone display.
- Description: Supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video, making it ideal for modern home theaters. Unlike other McIntosh products, it offers 7.2 channel audio with expandability to 7.2.4, providing flexibility for future upgrades. This makes it perfect for users looking to integrate advanced video capabilities and immersive audio in a custom home theater setup.
MHA200
- Positioning: A compact, high-quality headphone amplifier designed for personal audio enthusiasts.
- Description: Uses vacuum tube amplification, delivering a warm and detailed sound that is distinct from solid-state amplifiers like the MC462. Its compact size and multiple impedance settings make it versatile for various headphone types.
MC462
- Positioning: A powerful stereo amplifier, offering robust performance for high-end home audio systems.
- Description: Features a Quad Balanced design with McIntosh Autoformers, providing 450 Watts per channel with low distortion. Compared to the MC1502, it offers a solid-state solution with increased dynamic headroom.
MC1502
- Positioning: A high-power vacuum tube amplifier, ideal for audiophiles seeking classic tube sound.
- Description: Delivers 150 Watts per channel using vacuum tubes, offering a rich, warm sound that contrasts with the solid-state clarity of the MC462. Its Unity Coupled Circuit ensures consistent performance across various speaker impedances.
MC901
- Positioning: A unique dual mono amplifier, combining both vacuum tube and solid-state technologies.
- Description: Integrates a 300 Watt vacuum tube amplifier with a 600 Watt solid-state amplifier, providing the best of both worlds for bi-amping loudspeakers. This hybrid approach is unlike any other McIntosh product.
MC21KW
- Positioning: A flagship monoblock amplifier, representing the pinnacle of McIntosh's power amplification.
- Description: Delivers 2,000 Watts of power, making it suitable for the most demanding audio setups. Its tri-chassis design and advanced technologies like Autoformer and Power Guard set it apart from other amplifiers.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
543
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
2
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
77
Founding Year
1949
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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Used
McIntosh
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What if you spend more?
McIntosh
MA9500
12000
12000
/
5
Reviews
Music simply comes to life with the MA9500 Integrated Amplifier and its 300 Watts per channel of clean, effortless power. That power is delivered via a pair of the famed McIntosh Autoformer™ whose unique design guarantees your speakers will always receive the full 300 Watts regardless if they have 2, 4 or 8 Ohm impedance. The MA9500 replaces the award-winning MA9000 (SoundStage Network 2018 Integrated Amplifier of the Year; Sound + Image 2019 Stereo Amplifier Award Winner; Stereo Sound 2017 Grand Prix Award Winner) and adds additional performance enhancements to an already outstanding stereo integrated amplifier.
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Expand Details
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Sounds clean, clear, crisp, fast, lively, and quite neutral
- Vocals are clear, large, expressive, and have a little bit of sweetness
- Has a built-in DAC (DA2) that supports DSD512 and is described as clean sounding and very enjoyable
- Features an eight-band parametric equalizer that allows for tuning the sound of the amplifier with the speakers in the room, which is useful and can be turned on and off easily
Product Considerations
- The knobs on the front may feel a little plasticky
- Lacks an easy visual indication of equalizer settings, making it difficult to reset them precisely
- Treble might be a bit too 'play it safe' depending on the speakers used, but this is a minor point
- Bass isn't as driving and punchy as some other amplifiers, but rather smooth and controlled
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Avid Hi-Fi Sigsum: The Sigsum is clearer, cleaner, and more open sounding
- Vs NAD M23: The NAD M23 has more driving and punchy bass
- Vs Chord Electronics Hugo TT2: The Chord DAC sounds significantly better, with more authority, better soundstage, and more intricacies
- Vs MA9000: The MA9500 is quieter, and the dynamics are faster and more precise, especially with digital sources connected to the DA2 module
- Vs MA7000: The MA9500 is more focused, resolved, and transparent
- Vs Hegel H590: The Hegel looks cheap, lacks power and dynamics, and lacks a built-in phono stage
Takeaway: The McIntosh MA9500 is a versatile amplifier that delivers clean and clear sound with a lot of flexibility with connectivity and customizability. The built-in DAC and phono stage add to its appeal, making it a compelling option for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Product Page
Product Page
McIntosh
MC2301
13500
13500
/
1
Reviews
The MC2301 is the first McIntosh vacuum tube amplifier to use our Quad Balanced design. This design cancels virtually all noise and distortion in the audio signal. As a result, even when amplified to high levels the signal is effectively free of any distortion. Our fuse-less short-circuit protection circuit Sentry Monitor™ disengages the output stage before current exceeds safe operating levels and then resets automatically. Inputs for balanced and unbalanced cables are available to provide flexibility in connecting the rest of your audio system.
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Fast response, with detail, and a warm tube sound
- Picks up detail with speed when playing Hi-Res digital content
Product Considerations
- Lacks sound stage depth/width, power, and feel compared to the reference system (vintage MC275 amplifiers)
- Super tweeters seemed to be sleeping—as if there was no data provided at that frequency
- Lacks a big window of performance, energy, and feel, providing a smaller window of performance albeit nice with a tube-like sound
- Bass with the MC2301s was starving when compared to the 275's
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs vintage 1960s MC275: MC2301 lacks sound stage depth/width, power, and feel, a full rich lush enveloping sound, and energy that stirs emotion
- Vs later generations of the MC275: MC2301 would be superior
Takeaway: If you don't have access to vintage MC275s, the MC2301 could be a good option, providing a tube-like sound with detail and speed. McIntosh should look back and reconsider past designs.
Video review
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Product Page
Product Page
Chord Electronics
Ultima Integrated
11700
11700
/
14
Reviews
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a class-leading 125-watt integrated amplifier benefitting from the latest dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, Chord Electronics' legendary proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies, plus an unmistakable industrial aesthetic.
Designed by Chord Electronics' founder, owner and chief engineer, John Franks, the advanced ULTIMA circuit monitors and immediately corrects audio signals before the output stage, for astonishing signal accuracy from a one-box integrated device. The ULTIMA INTEGRATED also takes advantage of the very latest developments in advanced low-distortion power supplies – devices offering exceptionally low noise and outstanding amplifier operation – for even greater fidelity.
A four-input design, one fully balanced and three unbalanced, all enjoy individual buffering and are selectively filtered against potential ingress from radio frequency interference; selection switching is via microprocessor-controlled sealed relays.
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is the first new Chord Electronics integrated amplifier for seven years and remains the sole full-width integrated model in the range. All metalwork is precision-machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminium, including Chord Electronics' iconic Integra Legs. The fascia sports a 28-mm-thick front panel with a perfectly symmetrical aesthetic, centered around a spherical power on/off control with polychromatic lighting, flanked by illuminated volume and balance controls.
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Astonishing agility, precision, and clarity
- Spacious and uncluttered presentation
- Sturdy build
- Combines the precision and speed of older designs, but renders the sound with a naturalness
- Provides plenty of power without compromising on detail or clarity
Product Considerations
- Most rivals are better equipped
- Can sound thin if partnered poorly
- Could deliver stronger dynamic contrasts
- The balance control has no center detent or marked position
- No digital inputs or Wi-Fi
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Mark Levinson's No.5805 or PMC Cor, some may prefer the warmer, fuller presentation of rivals
- Vs Naim Supernait 3, it doesn't track the music's rhythms with the skill of the Naim
- Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivered undeniably elevated sound in all respects
- Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, midrange, especially with vocals, was more lifelike through the Ultima Integrated—smoother and more liquid
- Clear preference for Chord Ultima, especially the dynamics
- Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord is more natural and closer to the CH Precision system in terms of tonality and neutrality
Takeaway: The Ultima Integrated offers much of the performance of Chord's pre/powers in a neat one-box solution, presenting a refreshingly straightforward product to use. The Chord Ultima Integrated is a thrilling and soothing amplifier capable of weaving a wonderfully spellbinding sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Hegel
H600
12500
12500
/
13
Reviews
Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Dual-mono design delivers 303W per channel into 8 ohms, providing power and control for any speaker
- High damping factor of over 4000 ensures absolute control over speaker drivers, resulting in pristine sound reproduction
- New DAC implementation based on ESS Sabre 9038Q2M chip offers pure audio fidelity without any resampling or upsampling
- Supports streaming via Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and UPnP/DLNA
Product Considerations
- Does not have a phonostage
- Lacks an HDMI jack with ARC
- The supplied RC10 remote is slender with tiny buttons
- Weighs 22kg
- Minimalist design may be a bit bland for some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bryston B135 SST 2, the H600 delivers more effortless presentation at high output
- Vs McIntosh MA9500, the H600 has bigger sound, is crisper and has higher resolution
Takeaway: The H600 is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier that excels in delivering high-quality audio from both digital and analog sources. Its robust amplification makes it a great choice for audiophiles seeking a simplified yet high-end audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
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What competes at this price?
McIntosh
MA8950
9000
/
Released
2022
The MA8950 Integrated Amplifier offers 200 Watts per channel and combines McIntosh's amplification expertise and preamplifier technologies into one comprehensive stereo sound system component. It replaces the award-winning MA8900 and adds additional performance enhancements to an already outstanding stereo integrated amplifier.
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers 200 watts per channel regardless of speaker impedance due to its autoformer-based design
- Offers a flexible set of connections, including multiple analog and digital inputs, as well as HDMI ARC
- Includes a five-band EQ for room correction, operating in the analog domain
- Combines user-friendliness with high-end performance, with simple controls and accurate VU meters
- Delivers a large-scale, effortless sound that is both inviting and easy on the ears
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers found the remote handset and front panel controls to feel somewhat cheap
- Inputs cannot be selected directly and have to be cycled through
- A large and heavy amplifier, requiring significant space
- Not the most exciting amplifier, so people looking for sweeter sound may not like it
- Some reviewers felt it lacked rhythmic precision
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MA8950 has more dynamics and better bass than the MA8900
- The MA8950 has a DA2 digital module, HDMI ARC, and a five band EQ adjustment, compared to the MA7200
Takeaway: The McIntosh MA8950 is a hugely impressive amplifier that shines through a thorough product execution, seamless feature integration, and enormous connectivity. This unit is perfect for users seeking high-end performance and flexibility.
Video review
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Product Page
Product Page
McIntosh
MC8207
7000
/
Released
At 200 Watts per channel, the 7-channel MC8207 home theater amplifier is perfectly capable of powering all the speakers in a 7.1 channel home theater to McIntosh's legendary standards. It features LED power output indicators instead of our traditional blue meters. These indicators will display the amplifier's power output just as the blue meters do but in a more understated way – making the MC8207 a perfect choice for darkened home theaters where the screen is the focal point.
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fantastic overall sound quality with rich, powerful bass, a very musical midrange, and a clean, smooth treble response
- Beautiful cosmetic design and built like a tank
- Very black musical background
- Good sense of dynamics, pinpoint imaging, and sound staging
- Equal power into either 8 or 4-ohm loads
Product Considerations
- Cannot dim or completely turn off the front panel lights or power meters
- The chassis is very deep
- Power supply generates an audible hum, though McIntosh says that this is normal
- The XLR connectors are of the non-locking type
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- MC8207 is a lower-cost alternative to the then $9,500 MC207 flagship multi-channel amp
- MC8207 used regular coated and rolled steel, while MC207 has a solid stainless-steel chassis, covers, and heatsinks
- MC8207 has less expensive 'Ilumeter' displays instead of the expensive glowing blue analog VU meters of the MC207
- The "Meter Off" and "Watts Hold" knobs of the MC207's front panel were replaced with a single power switch on the MC8207
Takeaway: The McIntosh MC8207 offers a combination of beautiful design, impressive build quality, and excellent overall performance. It has a signature house sound consisting of a rich midrange, clean, sweet treble, and potent bass output—which is a treat for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Product Page
Product Page
McIntosh
MSA5500
8000
/
Released
2024
The MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier is both a full featured music streamer and powerful integrated amplifier in one. It can serve as the cornerstone of your audio setup, whether it be your first venture into high-fidelity audio, an addition to your existing system, or to use at your office or vacation home. Crafted to perfection and compact in size, the MSA5500 is tailor-made for modern living spaces, making it an ideal choice for those seeking premium audio in more confined environments.
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Retains the classic McIntosh aesthetic with a sleek and timeless design
- Offers robust streaming options including Apple Airplay, Bluetooth, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect
- Amplifier section delivers 100 watts into 8 ohms and 160 watts into 4 ohms, capable of driving nearly any speaker
- Back panel is well-marked and straightforward to connect
- Has home theater passthrough port
Product Considerations
- Qobuz is not available with this unit
- Moving coil users might want a step-up transformer or phono preamp
- Users of super high-end turntables might want a better outboard phono stage
- The subwoofer output is mono and full range
- The team has had mixed experiences with HXD
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- XR100 tower speakers: MSA5500's ability to power the XR100 was only beaten in this regard by McIntosh's other more powerful standalone amplifiers
Takeaway: The MSA5500 is a great all-in-one unit to stream music with the legendary sound and build quality that McIntosh is known for. It offers a small footprint without sacrificing quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
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Enleum
AMP-23R
6250
/
Released
2021
Enleum was launched as a new brand with the AMP-23R. While our legacy AMP-13R had already been praised all around the world for its performance and unique design, we pushed the boundaries to create the AMP-23R with a new circuit that truly enhances the existing performance. We have drastically improved the PCB circuit board design, chosen new internal components and upgraded our JET2 Bias design. And the reviews and awards are unanimous. The AMP-23R's physical size and footprint may be compact, but with the all new chassis and thermal heatsink design, we've launched a product that's fit for the next generation reference compact amplifier.
Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Addictive sound signature, unlike any other amp, with otherworldly instrument and voice reproduction
- Delivers serious magic with Fleetwood Deville and Klipsch Heritage speakers, revealing obscure details and creating a massive soundstage
- Dynamics for days
- Combines the qualities of a nice SET amp without the downsides, like noise or tube replacement
- Exceptional build quality and design with high-quality parts
- Only has two RCA inputs, no XLR balanced connections
Product Considerations
- Heavy speaker cables can cause the amp to tilt
- The volume dial functions as a gain dial, which may be different than what some users are accustomed to
- May not be suitable for hard-to-drive speakers in the 85db range that dip into 2–4 ohms
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AMP23R offers more texture, layering, mid-bass, and vocal presence than Nagra INT
- The AMP23R is more organic, ethereal, and dynamic than Kinki Studio EXM1
- It sounds better than the Vinnie Rossi L2iSE, so long as the speakers are easy to drive
- The Enleum has more delicacy and finesse than Pass Labs and Cary Audio
- The AMP23R stacks up with the finest gear such as ampsandsound Bryce monoblocks
- Pass Labs First Watt SIT-3 offers a bit more organic, warmer presentation
Takeaway: The Enleum AMP-23R is a small but mighty integrated amplifier with a unique and addictive sound signature, and it is built with high-quality components. It's a great choice for those with sensitive speakers looking for a reference-quality system in a compact package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
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Feliks Audio
Envy
7345
/
Released
2022
Class A Single-ended transformer coupled, balanced amplifier, powered by the legendary 300B tubes
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a blend of expertly crafted wood and metal, creating a visually striking and durable statement piece
- Dynamic, rich, and effortless sound with excellent detail, texture, and the right amount of tube magic
- Powerful output capable of driving demanding headphones while maintaining clarity and control
- Versatile performance with a variety of headphones (dynamic and planar) due to its output transformer design, often improving sound for warm or neutral headphones
- Value added by its ability to be used as a pre-amplifier in a stereo system
Product Considerations
- Large size and weight (around 15kg) require ample desk space and sturdy furniture
- Generates heat, which could be a concern in warmer environments without adequate ventilation
- Accidental switching of 'On/Off' is possible due to the touch-sensitive bar in the front not being intuitive, so use with care around pets
- Too powerful for some very sensitive IEMs, potentially resulting in overwhelming sound or audible hiss, though this is not the intended design for the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara, Envy empowers Susvara's natural presentation while giving it all the dynamics and slam needed
- Vs Cayin HA-300MkII, Envy exhibits more linear mid-to-high frequencies and offers a more transparent sound, while HA-300MkII has a warmer—more engaging midrange
- Vs AURIS Headonia 2A3, Envy performs at the same level, with technically incredibly strong aspects
- Vs Octave V 16, Envy completely demolishes the V 16 when it comes to energy, control, timbre, and resolution
- Vs Ferrum OOR, Envy is more powerful sounding, while also being more detailed with better tonality
Takeaway:
The Felix Audio Envy is a high-end headphone amplifier for audio enthusiasts who want the best quality sound to bring out the magic in their favorite headphones. Its stunning design and versatile performance make it a worthwhile addition to any serious audiophile setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
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