Meters cost more originally, and later sell for money than same model without meters. I sold my McIntosh MC2250 (no meters) earlier in the year. Originally the version with meters was +$800.00 more, and definitely costs more used than my amp without meters.
People love them, but, they are not well understood. Sensitivity switches are/were needed (just to get them to move) as most music needs very little power, unless you have low sensitivity speakers.
Here is Roger Russell's McIntosh site, click on 'Amplifier Meters', and 'Power Guard'.
http://www.roger-russell.com/mcintosh2.htm
As for balance, I prefer my ears, and find the Stereo Reverse option of McIntosh pre-amps very helpful. Then, I love my remote balance so I can tweak any individual track from my listening position. It is amazing how much difference a very slight balance adjustment can make.
If I had meters, fun at first, but after a while I am sure I would want them dimmed or off. Some cover them with tape if off feature does not exist.
People love them, but, they are not well understood. Sensitivity switches are/were needed (just to get them to move) as most music needs very little power, unless you have low sensitivity speakers.
Here is Roger Russell's McIntosh site, click on 'Amplifier Meters', and 'Power Guard'.
http://www.roger-russell.com/mcintosh2.htm
As for balance, I prefer my ears, and find the Stereo Reverse option of McIntosh pre-amps very helpful. Then, I love my remote balance so I can tweak any individual track from my listening position. It is amazing how much difference a very slight balance adjustment can make.
If I had meters, fun at first, but after a while I am sure I would want them dimmed or off. Some cover them with tape if off feature does not exist.