McIntosh MC257 7 Channel Power Amplifier

Introducing the McIntosh MC257: a 7-channel solid-state amplifier engineered to elevate your home theater experience with exceptional sound quality and power. Designed for discerning audiophiles, the MC257 ensures immersive audio that brings your favorite films to life.

Features

• TripleView™ Power Output Meter
• Dynamic Power Manager® (DPM) Technology
• Increased Dynamic Headroom
• Advanced Cooling System with Monogrammed Heatsinks™
• Versatile Integration Options

Innovative TripleView™ Power Output Meter

The MC257 features the distinctive TripleView™ Power Output Meter, which simultaneously displays real-time power levels for the front left, center, and right channels. This 15-inch (38 cm) wide meter consolidates three indicators into a single, streamlined display, maintaining the classic McIntosh aesthetic while enhancing user convenience. For optimal viewing, the signature blue meter lighting can be deactivated to prevent distraction during movie sessions.

Enhanced Power Output for Superior Performance

Delivering 250 watts to each of the front three channels and 200 watts to all seven channels, the MC257 provides ample power to drive a comprehensive home theater setup. Thanks to McIntosh's Dynamic Power Manager® (DPM) technology, this robust output is consistently supplied to both 4 and 8 Ohm speakers, ensuring versatility and compatibility with a wide range of audio systems.

Significant Increase in Dynamic Headroom

With a 20% boost in filter capacity, the MC257 achieves a remarkable 94% increase in dynamic headroom, elevating it from 1.7dB to 3.3dB. This enhancement results in improved low-frequency performance, delivering deep, impactful bass that enriches the overall listening experience—particularly beneficial when enjoying dynamic movie soundtracks.

Advanced Cooling System for Silent Operation

Equipped with five McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™ connected to advanced high-current output transistors, the MC257 efficiently dissipates heat without the need for noisy cooling fans. This design ensures silent operation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your entertainment without unwanted background noise. Additionally, a specially wound toroidal isolation power transformer minimizes electrical noise, preserving audio purity.

Versatile Integration Options

The MC257 offers both balanced and unbalanced inputs, facilitating seamless integration with various home theater processors and components. Its flexible design allows it to power a 7-channel home theater independently, complement digital amplifiers like the MI128 or MI254 in larger setups, or serve a 5-channel theater while allocating two channels to a secondary audio zone.

Protective Technologies for Reliable Performance

Incorporating McIntosh's proprietary Power Guard® technology, the MC257 prevents speaker damage caused by clipping or overdriving. The Sentry Monitor™ system safeguards against short circuits by disengaging the output stage if current exceeds safe levels, automatically resetting when normal conditions resume. These protective measures ensure the amplifier's longevity and dependable performance.

Elegant Design with User-Friendly Features

The MC257 boasts a polished stainless-steel chassis and the iconic McIntosh black glass front panel, complete with the TripleView™ meter, illuminated logo, and aluminum end caps. The front panel utilizes direct LED backlighting for enhanced color accuracy and durability. Updated gold-plated speaker binding posts prevent corrosion and ensure a high-quality signal transmission to your speakers.