used mc452 or new mc312

I would say the 452 will be quieter than the 312. The 312 isn’t quad balanced like the 452 is. I own a 402 and would like to get into mono blocks as I am getting older and the 402 weighs 120 lbs plus. McIntosh Solid State monos that I can afford don’t have Autoformers so I may either switch brands after several years of McIntosh amps etc. or get a small forklift!

used has NO service.
they won't service a unit not bought from authorized dealer.

There are a bunch of certified McIntosh repair shops around. Has to be one of the best supported brands. No worries there. 

Any recent thoughts from those who have compared the mc452 to the Mc312? I wanted to revive this old thread in hopes of getting some more recent opinions based on experience.  The two products should be similar in price.  I am thinking of upgrading my mc152 in hopes of getting some improvement,  especially in sound stage and imagining.