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great some minor imperfections in the glass due to age. The meter range knob is a little stiff.
US$2,500 is above the US$2,069 75th percentile for recent comparables, so this reads as ambitious rather than a value play. Against a median of US$1,762 and a 25th percentile of US$1,212, you’d want something notably stronger than “average” to justify the premium.
That said, the appeal is real: the MC 2505 is one of the classic McIntosh solid-state power amps, prized for robust build, easy drive capability, and the kind of tonal weight and authority that still makes sense in a serious vintage system. If the cosmetics are clean and the internals are healthy, the upside is owning a highly regarded, collectible piece with strong long-term desirability. At this price, though, I’d want verified service history and confidence that it’s fully sorted.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
McIntosh Laboratory, founded in 1949 in the United States by Frank H. McIntosh and Gordon Gow, embodies a storied heritage of American audio innovation. Originally based in Silver Spring, Maryland, before relocating to Binghamton, New York, where products are still handcrafted today, the brand emerged from a commitment to superior sound reproduction. From powering President Lyndon Johnson's inauguration to the Grateful Dead's Wall of Sound at Woodstock, McIntosh has shaped pivotal moments in music history and pop culture, earning its place as a cultural icon.
The company specializes in a comprehensive lineup of high-fidelity components, including renowned amplifiers—particularly its revered tube models for their warm, enveloping sound—along with solid-state power amps, stereo tuners, loudspeakers, turntables, music streamers, processors, and digital-to-analog converters. This breadth supports both two-channel stereo systems and multi-channel home theaters, delivering immersive experiences in music and film. Iconic blue watt meters on their gear have become globally recognized symbols of precision and power.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, McIntosh commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its uncompromising quality, luxurious build, and timeless design. Far from mid-tier or niche boutique, it stands as a premium benchmark, favored by legendary musicians and producers across decades, blending vintage allure with modern performance for those who demand the ultimate in sonic fidelity.
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