IF you’ve yearned for a high-end tube-driven headphone amplifier, wait no more… McIntosh Labs has just launched the MHA200. This compact vacuum tube headamp is driven by a pair each of 12AT7 and 12BH7A dual triode vacuum tubes.
“The 12AT7 vacuum tubes amplify the incoming audio signal while the 12BH7A tubes provide the power to drive the output to your headphones with low distortion. The MHA200 uses a pair of our Unity Coupled Circuit output transformers to deliver pristine audio to your ears,” McIntosh tells us.
“The transformers have been adapted to produce four headphone impedance ranges of 32–100, 100–250, 250–600, and 600–1,000 Ohms at 500mW so that virtually every headphone can receive legendary the McIntosh sound quality and performance.
“Instead of having to adapt to the impedance of the headphones with voltage gain in the input stage, the output transformers’ secondary windings ensure the full power of the MHA200 is available regardless of the impedance of your headphones.”
As for feature, “A wide assortment of connectivity options come on the MHA200. For attaching your headphones, there are three options: a pair of three-pin balanced XLR connectors for dedicated Left and Right balanced output; a four-pin balanced XLR connector for balanced stereo output; and a 1/4-inch stereo headphone jack.
“For connecting the MHA200 to your home music system’s source components, it has one set each of both balanced and unbalanced inputs.”
The MHA200’s diminutive footprint – 15.6 x 23.2cm – makes it convenient to site on most surfaces.
The retail price is US$2,500, and the MHA200 can be ordered now at authorised North American dealers. Shipping for US and Canada begins in March, and globally, after that.
Oh… headphones not included.
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