McIntosh Labs MC152 Stereo Amplifier

All the superlatives apply to the music produced by this amplifier--warm, liquid, open, clear, etc. I bought this amplifier to replace a similar amp I have owned for years rated to produce more power than the McIntosh. It was a bit of a leap of faith hoping to hear a genuine improvement with clearer sound and more presence. I was more than pleasantly surprised. For the first time I can clearly hear a bass playing in a song I have listened to for years. Singers are crystal clear. I can now hear subtle inflections in a singers voice that adds a lot to their performance. Harmonies are no longer the mush of tones I heard in the past. The beauty of instruments like violins and pianos shine like I have never heard before. It is truly surprising how much these enhancements add to enjoyment of the music. I considered many other options including tube amps but finally settled on this because tubes need to be replaced frequently and McIntosh is known to make some of the best performing and longest lasting equipment available. A friend of mine bought a McIntosh preamp and amp over 50 years ago and they still perform like new. Cost is obviously a factor. This amp ain't cheap but cost is a personal matter and I will not say more. I highly recommend it if you enjoy listening to music and can afford it.

When the flux capacitor in my turbo Delorean unexpectedly went out, I was in a bit of pickle. I only had about 11k in my wallet. I picked up a few of these amps and a preamp for parts and well HERE I Am! I even had 16 bucks left over for gas. Being stuck in 1987 sucked so thank you McIntosh for your affordable products. Would buy again!