Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: McIntosh MC7270 Amplifier (SS) by JonM

Model:	MC7270
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$2500
Description:	270 wpc with autoformer outputs and meters
Manufacturer URL:	McIntosh
Manufacturer URL:	McIntosh

Review by JonM ( A ) on February 22, 2004 at 10:31:22
IP Address: 151.203.200.104

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I bought my MC7270 well over 10 years ago from Audio Classics in Walton (now Vestal) NY. (Great guys to deal with, though you do pay a premium for their assurance that what you buy will work as promised.) I have listened to this amp with some of the most revealing speakers (like Quad 989's) as well as run of the mill boxes (like the original larger Advents) and others in between (like Dahlquist DQ-10's). I have continually been impressed with every aspect of this amp:
- First and foremost, the sound. Clear without being harsh, sweet without being syrupy, smooth and detailed and just effortless from the lowest lows on up. No change in the sound as things get loud, this despite the fact that it runs its outputs in class B (no idling bias current, but zero hint of crossover notch - see, it can be done :-). Sounds are natural, soundstage is deep and wide and detailed. Everything is just effortless.
- Build quality is everything you'd expect from McIntosh. Fit 'n' finish is about as good as it gets without being over the top (not a gilded lilly, this one). No noises or pops with any controls. No hum - none - either electrical (through the speakers) or mechanical. Everything works smoothly and predictably. And I love those blue meters.
- Reliability has been 100% perfect for over a decade. The unit runs cool, which contributes to long life, and even the power supply capacitors are charged relatively slowly at initial turn-on to prolong life. Built like a tank to last and last and last.

Product Weakness: None. (Some might quibble about the speaker output barrier strips - large spade lugs or banana plugs won't work with this amp.)
Product Strengths: Sound quality, reliability, build quality

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	McIntosh MC7270
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	McIntosh C30
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Linn LP12
Speakers:	Quad 989
Cables/Interconnects:	Monster
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz, classical
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	None. (Some might quibble about the speaker output barrier strips - large spade lugs or banana plugs won't work with this amp.)
Product Strengths:	Sound quality, reliability, build quality