LIVE
Waiting for new listings…
0 other audiophiles online

Our Thoughts RADAR AI

A used McIntosh MA252 listed for US$3,900 is a strong bargain, sitting well below the 25th percentile of US$3,950 and the median of US$4,000 from our recent comparable listings. This price is notably lower than typical asking prices in the US$4,400–US$5,000 range and represents a genuine deal for a well-regarded hybrid integrated amplifier.

The MA252 earns its reputation by combining valve warmth with solid-state precision, delivering 100 watts per channel into 8Ω and up to 160 watts into 4Ω, with measured outputs even exceeding McIntosh’s specs. Its timing, rarity as a hybrid unit, and the clean listing condition make this an excellent buying opportunity for enthusiasts seeking authentic McIntosh quality without the loftier new prices. Unless the condition is questionable or accessories are missing, there are no material caveats to raise at this price.

Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.

About McIntosh

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.

See all McIntosh listings on RADAR.

More MA252 listings