Mcintosh MC2105 (1st Solid State Amplifier)
McIntosh is one of the most dependable brand names when it comes to high-end audio systems. For years the brand has been recognized by audiophiles throughout the world as equipment that delivers clear and consistent quality in music. McIntosh is probably best known for its amplifiers and preamps, but the company produces many other components and parts for stereo and home theatre.
"For years I have tried to get my hands on one of these for cheap. I would read stories on message boards of people buying McIntosh gear at estate sales for $20 a pop, or finding them on the side of the road in perfect condition. About a month ago I found a MC2105 that was 'immaculate, stored for 30 years.' I bought it for a song and brought it to a technician to have a look at it. Cosmetically, yes, it was immaculate, but it did have some electronic issues. I called McIntosh directly and they were super friendly on the phone, all the parts I needed were in stock and not terribly expensive. About a week later my tech had completed a full restoration of my amp, everything from the output transistors to the capacitors. When I brought it home, I mated it with my JBL 4312a Control Monitors, new old stock PS Audio 4.6 Preamplifier, and modified Technics 1200 MK2. I was floored. I've heard plenty of McIntosh gear over the years, but there's something different about hearing it in your own home. Like others have said, it is a very musical amplifier, I think that is what I like about it most, it is very pleasant. The official specs say that the damping factor at 8 ohms is 10 and 18 at 4. That would lead some to believe that the bass is not tight or refined, however, I find the bass on my 2105 to be very good. I would describe it as stately, not boomy or muddy. The autoformers ensure clean and distortionless power delivery at 4,8 or 16 ohms without clipping. I can listen to this amplifier for hours, at almost any volume, without fatigue. Before I had the 2105, I had a Pioneer SX-980, a Sony STR-7065 and a pair of SAE Mark 2500 amplifiers. In comparison I found the Pioneer to be too bright and a little dry, the Sony to be pleasant but lacking enough power for my needs, and the SAE amplifiers to be too much power with poor reliability. All of the pieces of gear I owned before this, while good in their own right, did not suit my needs and tastes the same way the 2105 does. For me, the years of waiting paid off, and I am thankful that I was able to get this amplifier and a full restoration for less than the price of an unrestored example on ebay or audiogon. I encourage anyone who has an interest in this amplifier, or McIntosh gear in general, to give it a shot. Even if you hate it (which I doubt you will) you can ALWAYS sell it and make your money back. As for me, I will never sell this amplifier, never. I'm selling off all of my other gear only because I don't see myself listening to it now that my McIntosh is in the house.
Power output: 105 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Frequency response: 10Hz to 100kHz
Total harmonic distortion: 0.25%
Damping factor: 13
Input sensitivity: 0.5V
Signal to noise ratio: 90dB
Speaker load impedance: 4Ω to 16Ω
Semiconductors: 34 x transistors, 18 x rectifiers and diodes
Dimensions: 411 x 181 x 368mm
Weight: 29.5kg
Finish: anodized gold and black with gold teal nomenclature
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