TWO new integrated amps and one receiver from McIntosh Labs can only be good news for those aspiring to ownership of those legendary blue meters.
First up is the 200-watt MA7900, which also comes with a DAC and phono section on board … talk about integration!
It’s well thought out, too – 12 inputs in all, among them three digital ones (yes, USB included) that are equipped to decode up to 32-bit/192kHz resolution. Should please the bit watchers and computer audio crowd. And vinyl-heads certainly won’t mind that the phono stage has both MC and MM sections.
A five-band tone control, Home Theater Pass, the signature autoformers, headphone output and that classic glass front panel are among the MA7900’s attractions.
The MA6700, from the published details, appears to be similarly spec’d, but minus the tone controls. Also, there’s one input less (but still three digital ones) although it is designed to take on an optional AM/FM tuner module.
The MA6700, however, is not available in the US and Canada … but if you live there, your option is the MAC6700 receiver, which is for the North American market only. It is also McIntosh’s first receiver in 20 years … apart from the AM/FM tuner, it is identical to the MA6700.
The tuner features HD Radio Technology, which means it is equipped to deliver near CD quality sound. McIntosh says this one is as good sonically as its standalone tuners, and has 20 presets each for the AM and FM bands.
Check with your neighbourhood McIntosh dealer for prices and availability.