McIntosh is a highly respected name in the world of high-end audio equipment, known for producing amplifiers and other audio devices that deliver exceptional sound quality. Two of their most popular amplifier models are the MA7200 and the MA352. Both of these amplifiers have a lot to offer, but they are different in some key ways. In this article, we will take a closer look at the McIntosh MA7200 and MA352 amplifiers and compare their features and performance.
Design and Build Quality
Both the MA7200 and the MA352 have a classic McIntosh look, with their signature blue LED lighting and black glass faceplate. The MA7200 has a larger footprint and a heavier weight, measuring 17.5 inches wide, 7.62 inches tall, and 22 inches deep, with a weight of 95 pounds. The MA352, on the other hand, is smaller and lighter, measuring 14.5 inches wide, 6 inches tall, and 18 inches deep, with a weight of 28.5 pounds.
The build quality of both amplifiers is top-notch, with high-quality components and meticulous attention to detail. The MA7200 has a more traditional design with a brushed aluminum front panel and polished stainless steel chassis. The MA352 has a more modern design with a matte black front panel and a black powder-coated steel chassis.
Power and Performance
The MA7200 is a more powerful amplifier than the MA352, with a power output of 200 watts per channel compared to the MA352’s 200 watts per channel. Both amplifiers use McIntosh’s proprietary Autoformer technology, which allows them to deliver their full power output to any speaker regardless of its impedance. The MA7200 has a larger power transformer and a more robust power supply than the MA352, which contributes to its greater power output.
In terms of sound quality, both amplifiers deliver exceptional performance, with a neutral and transparent sound that reveals the nuances of any recording. The MA7200 has a slightly warmer and more relaxed sound signature, while the MA352 has a more detailed and precise sound. The MA352 has a slightly wider soundstage and better separation of instruments, while the MA7200 has a more cohesive and organic sound.
Features
Both the MA7200 and the MA352 are feature-rich amplifiers, with a range of inputs and outputs to connect to various audio sources. The MA7200 has a total of 14 inputs, including 8 analog inputs, 3 digital inputs, and a phono input for a turntable. It also has a built-in DAC with support for high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/192kHz. The MA352 has 9 inputs, including 3 analog inputs, 4 digital inputs, and a phono input. It also has a built-in DAC with support for high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/384kHz.
Both amplifiers have McIntosh’s signature tone controls, including bass and treble adjustments, a tone bypass switch, and a loudness control. The MA7200 also has McIntosh’s Power Guard circuitry, which protects the amplifier from clipping and distortion.
Conclusion
Both the McIntosh MA7200 and the MA352 are exceptional amplifiers that deliver outstanding performance and build quality. The MA7200 is a more powerful and traditional amplifier, while the MA352 is a more compact and modern design. The MA7200 has a slightly warmer and more relaxed sound signature, while the MA352 has a more detailed and precise sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two amplifiers will come down to personal preference and specific system requirements. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a McIntosh amplifier.
