Opinions on McIntosh MHA200?


I’m considering a McIntosh MHA200 to drive my LCD-X, LCD-2, and AKG K412 headphones. I’m wondering if anyone has an opinion.

I’m a bit suspicious of McIntosh prices. They have a great reputation and cult following, but has that allowed them to overcharge for underperforming hardware?

I'm looking for good dynamics, bass impact, and extension. Maybe McIntosh is good at those things.

My understanding is that McIntosh amps are "lush" and musical and forgiving. They brag they’ve been using this "Unity Circuit" thing for 80 years, but really, I would expect it’s better to advance your technology over time. Perhaps this gives them a signature sound, but is it a colored sound?

magon

From what I understand, it's a very good headphone amp; I'd check out online and YouTube reviews and see if there's any kind of general consensus. Also check out forums on head-fi.com as there is almost no headphone action on Audiogon forums. That said, Mac gear does have a 'paying more than you should because of the name' thing, according to many folks. 

Given Mac products can be very polarizing and often have a particular “sound” I personally wouldn’t buy their headphone amp unless I could hear it first.  I would give Linear Tube Audio a call and ask them if their new Velo amp has sufficient power for your headphones, and if so they offer a return policy so you can try it at home with little risk.  Their headphone amps always get stellar reviews.  Hope this helps, and best of luck. 

First time I have heard a supposedly legendary brand brag that their technology is 80 years old.

McIntosh certainly knows how to market.

There's a reason that Best Buy is selling them.

 

@tony1954 - From what I've seen on another thread, Bose just recently pulled the McIntosh line from Magnolia stores.... 

@larsman 

I did know that. That was my error in not saying that "Best Buy was previously selling them".