McIntosh MA6800 (1994)
A stereo integrated amplifier combining the performance of a separate system with McIntosh's signature output transformer technology
Overview
The McIntosh MA6800 is a stereo integrated amplifier released in December 1994. It was designed to deliver the same quality as a separate preamplifier and power amplifier system, incorporating McIntosh’s hallmark G.T.L. elements: a glass front panel, output transformer, and illuminated logo. The amplifier uses an output transformer to ensure stable performance and protect speakers by blocking DC current during faults.
Specifications
| Year of Production | Released in December 1994 |
| Rated Output (Both Channels Operating) | 150W + 150W (2 Ω, 4 Ω, 8 Ω, sine wave continuous output) |
| Load Impedance | 2 Ω, 4 Ω, 8 Ω (Independent Terminal) |
| Output Frequency Bandwidth | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Total Harmonic Distortion Factor | 0.005% or Less (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 250 mW to 150W, Both Channel Operation) |
| Intermodulation Distortion Factor | 0.005% or Less (250 mW to 150W at any combination of 20 Hz to 20 kHz) |
| Frequency Characteristic | 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz +0 -0.5 dB |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A network) Power Amplifier | 110 dB (Rated Output) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A network) Preamplifier | 90 dB (10 mV input, 84 dB IHF) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A network) High Level | 100 dB (rated output, 90 dB IHF) |
| IHF Dynamic Headroom | 1.8dB |
| Damping Factor | 40 or more |
| Power Guard Overdrive | at 1 kHz up to 14 dB THD within 2% |
| Input Impedance Phono | 47k Ω (65 pF) |
| Input Impedance High Level | 22k Ω |
| Input Impedance Power Amplifier In | 20k Ω |
| Input Sensitivity Phono | 2.5 mV (0.5 mV IHF at rated output) |
| Input Sensitivity High Level | 250 mV (40 mV IHF at rated output) |
| Input Sensitivity Power Amp In | 1.4 V (at rated output) |
| Maximum Input Level Phono | 90mV |
| Maximum Input Level High Level | 10V |
| Tone Control | Up to 12 dB boost / 12 dB cut for Bass/Treble |
| Power | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz, 6.25A (UL/CSA1) |
| External Dimensions | Width 445 x Height 179 x Depth 537 mm (including knob) |
| Weight | 31.8kg |
Design
The MA6800 uses an output transformer to deliver stable peak output current of 53A or more while protecting speakers from DC faults. The signal path from phono input to final stage mirrors that of McIntosh’s separate amplifiers. Signal switching uses glass-sealed reed relays, and the tone control circuit is fully bypassed in the flat position. It features a fast-response power meter showing voltage x current output, and allows direct connection of 6 mm core diameter speaker cables. The preamp output and power amp input terminals are accessible for separate use. It also includes McIntosh’s continuous loudness control, active at any volume level.
Context
The MA6800 was developed as an integrated amplifier that matches the quality of a separate system, incorporating the three classic McIntosh G.T.L. elements: glass panel, output transformer, and panel lighting.
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