McIntosh MA230 integrated amplifier video in the studio

jdandy

jdandy

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Here is a video of my McIntosh MA230 integrated amplifier that I captured this evening in the studio. I recorded it in 1080p HD so be sure to click on the settings icon and select 1080p for best viewing. Even with the tiny microphones built into the Canon video recorder the music still manages to come across good on my desktop speakers. It sounded wonderful in the studio. Hope you enjoy it.


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Dan,

I enjoyed the video A LOT !
Thank you.
Although I keep buying "high end" gear, I know that I could be fully satisfied with one of those old Mcs. The 230 is a very desirable piece. The kind of amp that makes me wondering why we kept spending fortunes in amps, with those little wonders available at a tiny cost. The search for high definition of course. But at what price ? Not only the money spent. Look at the space occupied by a C1000P and a pair of 2301's !
As you know, I consider the 225 a much better amp to my ears than the 2301's. Of course, speakers must be chosen accordingly to the 25W of the 225. The 225 is an amp that will die with me. ( but I won't have it put in my coffin ! )
I also own the 5100 and the Mac1500, which is very close to the 230 but adds a tuner derived from the MR67. Both pieces give everything I am needing when listening to music.
 
Oh my God! Dan it sounds amazing. That was so awesome of Gary to ship it to you. I love the way it sounds. What a fun hobby, especially with great members like we have here. Thanks for posting that Dan.
 
Jerome.......I was hoping you would see the video. The McIntosh MA230 is a jewel. Like you I also own the solid state MA5100 integrated amplifier. I like it, too, but there is just something very special about the sound of the MA230. While I was doing the video you crossed my mind as I recalled you sitting in the studio with me enjoying music. It is always such a pleasure to share music with someone who appreciates the experience of high quality audio.

The McIntosh MA230 sold new for $349.00 in 1965. I wish I had purchased 20 of them and stored them until now. I recently saw a MA230 listed on eBay for $1995.00. I saw another one on Audiogon earlier this year for $1600.00. I will never sell mine but even at those prices the MA230 is worth it. It is one sweet tube integrated amplifier.
 
Joe.......Yes, it was a wonderful gift from Gary that pleases me to no end. Now that it has been restored and making sweet music once again I like to think that perhaps from heaven Gary's dad can hear and see it once again bringing smiles to the faces of all that hear its wonderful sound. I am so happy to have an MA230 back in my life and very thankful for Gary's generosity.
 
Dan . Thank you so much for share. Really enjoyed the video and it was also good to hear your voice as well . :congrats::thumbsup:
 
Double-D said:
Jerome.......I was hoping you would see the video. The McIntosh MA230 is a jewel. Like you I also own the solid state MA5100 integrated amplifier. I like it, too, but there is just something very special about the sound of the MA230. While I was doing the video you crossed my mind as I recalled you sitting in the studio with me enjoying music. It is always such a pleasure to share music with someone who appreciates the experience of high quality audio.

The McIntosh MA230 sold new for $349.00 in 1965. I wish I had purchased 20 of them and stored them until now. I recently saw a MA230 listed on eBay for $1995.00. I saw another one on Audiogon earlier this year for $1600.00. I will never sell mine but even at those prices the MA230 is worth it. It is one sweet tube integrated amplifier.
Click to expand...

Dan....
Oh yes I remember when we were together in your studio. Wonderful memories.
You are right about the sound and the price. Even at 2k, the 230 worths it. Anyway, 349 dollars in 1965 was not more money than 2k dollars today ?
I also clearly prefer the MAC1500 to the 5100.
And the superb bonus with both the 1500 and the 230 is the stunningly good headphone amp circuit.
 
Jerome W said:
Dan....
Oh yes I remember when we were together in your studio. Wonderful memories.
You are right about the sound and the price. Even at 2k, the 230 worths it. Anyway, 349 dollars in 1965 was not more money than 2k dollars today ?
I also clearly prefer the MAC1500 to the 5100.
And the superb bonus with both the 1500 and the 230 is the stunningly good headphone amp circuit.
Click to expand...

Jerome.......I'll have to give the headphone jack a listen. I hadn't even considered that. Thanks for bringing it up.
 
Mike.......The McIntosh MA230 was manufactured from 1963 until 1966. They built 4,562 of them. Judging from my serial number I am guessing this MA230 was made in 1965. The amplifier section produces 30 watts per channel with four 7591 power tubes. It is a true old school integrated amp with point to point wiring to all discreet parts and tubes. It is built like a tank and weighs 43 lbs. without the cabinet. The McIntosh MA230 is a true gem.
 
Thanks Dan. Vintage gear still can play a role today in any great system. Your Anniversarios are efficient, so I would imagine the 30 watts is plenty?
 
Mike said:
Thanks Dan. Vintage gear still can play a role today in any great system. Your Anniversarios are efficient, so I would imagine the 30 watts is plenty?
Click to expand...

Mike.......Last night when I made the video the MA230 volume knob was set at 11:00 o'clock. That produces a room filling volume with the Anniversario's. With the volume knob at 12:00 o'clock the room is rocking. When I have the Anniversario's powered by the MC2301 amplifiers I watch the power meters. Most of my musical enjoyment happens with peaks in the 3 to 5 watt range. It the peaks are approaching 30 watts the room is pressurized very nicely. Having 300 watts on tap with the 2301's is nice but I seldom need it. The MA230 was in its stride last night with plenty of power reserve. The sound of the Sylvania 7591 tubes is smooth as silk.
 
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