McIntosh MC1.25KW
2001 - 2007
The McIntosh MC1.25KW is one of the most powerful amplifiers McIntosh Laboratory ever built. It delivers 1,200 watts of continuous power into 8 ohms and over 2,000 watts into 4 ohms. It is a big monoblock, made for the hungriest speakers and the largest listening rooms, and it was built around unrestricted dynamic range.
Specifications
| Type | Solid-state monoblock power amplifier |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 1,200W @ 8Ω, 2,000W @ 4Ω |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 20kHz (+0, -0.25dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.005% (20Hz - 20kHz, rated power) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 124dB (below rated output) |
| Input Sensitivity | 2.0V (balanced), 4.0V (unbalanced) for rated output |
| Damping Factor | 100 (8 ohms) |
| Inputs | Balanced XLR, Unbalanced RCA |
| Dimensions | 17.75" W × 11.5" H × 22" D |
| Weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
Quad Balanced Design
The MC1.25KW uses McIntosh's exclusive Quad Balanced circuit topology. Four amplifier circuits run in a push-pull arrangement to cancel noise and distortion. The result is the lowest possible noise floor and accurate signal reproduction, which helps bring out subtle details in high-resolution recordings.
Power Guard and Sentry Monitor
McIntosh's patented Power Guard circuit prevents clipping that could damage speakers. The Sentry Monitor protects the amplifier itself from short circuits and mismatched loads. Both circuits work transparently, so the amplifier delivers its full performance while they guard your investment.
Key Features
- Massive Power Supply: 3.6 kVA toroidal transformer with 120,000µF of capacitance
- Quad Balanced: Four amplifier circuits for ultimate noise rejection
- Autoformer Output: Delivers full rated power to 2, 4, or 8 ohm loads
- Power Guard: Waveform comparison circuit prevents clipping
- Sentry Monitor: Protects against short circuits and thermal overload
- Blue Watt Meters: Iconic McIntosh power meters with LED backlighting
- Gold-Plated Connectors: Ensures optimal signal transfer
Applications
The MC1.25KW was designed for demanding jobs: driving large electrostatic speakers, powering professional cinema systems, or giving headroom to dynamic orchestral recordings. It delivers massive instantaneous current, which suits the transients and dynamic swings of live music.
Legacy
The MC1.25KW is one of McIntosh's most ambitious amplifier designs. It combines massive power, low distortion and bulletproof reliability. Newer designs have matched or exceeded its power output, but the 1.25KW remains a collector's item.
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Documentation
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