MC1.25KW Monoblocks

The McIntosh MC1.25KW monoblocks are single-channel power amplifiers with a Quad Balanced circuit design. Each amplifier delivers 1,200 Watts into 2, 4 or 8 Ohm speakers through McIntosh Autoformer™ technology, with total harmonic distortion of 0.005%. The single-chassis monoblock weighs 158 pounds (71.7 kg) and replaces the MC1.2KW in the McIntosh range.

A 50% increase in filter capacity improves low-frequency performance and increases dynamic headroom. The audio Autoformer and power transformer remain behind the front panel, now housed in glass-topped enclosures. Between them, circular glasswork surrounds the amplifier name badge and its decorative trim ring. The updated industrial design is intended to work alongside current McIntosh components and earlier models.

At the rear, 4 McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™ dissipate heat through materials with high thermal conductivity. They are connected to high-current output transistors, removing thermal equilibrium lag time so the first note of a listening session is reproduced under the same operating conditions as later music. Ventilation trim plates cap the heatsinks. The trim plates and circular trim ring are aluminium, finished to match the front panel handles.

The AC receptacle has been repositioned to provide more clearance for a wider range of power cords. The amplifier uses a polished stainless steel chassis and 4 redesigned feet with chamfered edges. Other changes include an updated power transformer, heavier-gauge internal wiring, upgraded circuit components and a power management system that switches the amplifier off after a set period when no input signal is detected.

The front panel retains the signature black glass finish, control knobs, illuminated logo and aluminium end caps with handles. Its large, fast-responding 11” (27.9 cm) blue Watt meter displays the amplifier’s power output. Direct LED backlighting for the front panel and meter improves appearance and colour accuracy.

• Power Guard® monitors and adjusts the output signal in real time to prevent harsh clipping and clipping that could damage speakers.
• Sentry Monitor™ is a fuse-less short-circuit protection circuit. It disengages the output stage before current exceeds safe operating levels and resets automatically when operating conditions return to normal.
• Quad Balanced design cancels virtually all noise and distortion introduced into the audio signal.
• Power Control sends power on and off signals to connected McIntosh components, including CD players, turntables, tuners and media streamers, for system power-up and shutdown.
• Patented Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts attach speaker cables securely to reduce the risk of them coming loose and causing a short. The binding posts are gold-plated to resist corrosion and maintain signal quality across the speaker cables.
• Balanced and unbalanced outputs support bi-amping or tri-amping. They can also send the audio signal to a secondary system when the preamplifier does not provide enough outputs, or connect to a powered subwoofer.

Price shown is for a pair.