McIntosh MC152 vs MC162

I would agree with the others who recommend the MC152.  Not only does it have the autoformers, it have both single ended and XLR inputs, more up to date circuitry (I believe the new generation output transistors), and would most-likely have much less mileage on it!

...not to mention the 152 has plenty of headroom. Right up there with the best of the McIntosh amps. I have one in my office rig and fully enjoy the sound. 152/C47 with 805 d3’s. Hard combo to beat in a small space. 

What are your thoughts on using the MC162 to power surround speakers in a McIntosh system?

I have owned a 2125, 7100, 7200, 122, 202, 162, 452, and 152.  The 152 is the best I’ve had by far, better than the 452 even.  They really lucked out with its circuit.  The 162 is good for the money but a bit grainy and with a constricted soundstage compared to the newer models.  I suggest a 152 if you don’t need ridiculous amounts of power.

I know that I am late to the party.

This is my first McIntosh product.

Driving it with a Schiit Freya+ w/NOS tubes.

As this amp breaks in…it is blowing my mind.
(Previous products: Bob Carver C-500, Kinki Studio EX-B7 Mono Blocs).

McIntosh is very conservative on the power output ratings. Reliable 3rd-party measurements put it at 238-258 wpc@8 ohms.
I finally have a solid platform behind my gear.

Listening is becoming a joy again! 😀