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Overview

Stereophile 2022 Recommended Component logo

Experience stereo bliss with the MC462 Amplifier. The MC462 replaces the highly regarded MC452 as our most powerful stereo amplifier. Like the MC452, it features a robust output of 450 Watts per channel. With a dedicated McIntosh Autoformer™ connected to each audio channel, the full 450 Watts is available to any speakerregardless if it has 2, 4 or 8 Ohm impedance. Just one MC462 Amplifier can single-handedly power a world class home audio stereo system.

"An extraordinarily well-engineered, exceptionally powerful amplifier... Highly recommended – insisted on, even." - Stereophile

The C53/MC462 combo sounded "super-smooth and superbly balanced at all times, whilst never letting the smoothness of their delivery interfere with their ability to resolve a level of detail, [which] means you will hear nuances you just will not hear with lesser amplifiers." - Audio Esoterica

The new generation MC462 stereo amplifier has received numerous updates compared to the previous model. The most prominent is that filter capacity has been increased by nearly 50%, which has resulted in a remarkable 66% increase in dynamic headroom from 1.8dB to 3.0dB. This allows the MC462 to easily handle drastic swings in dynamics and effortlessly reproduce your favorite music with virtually no distortion. Bass performance is also improved as a result of the filter capacity increase. Our eco-friendly power management system, which will turn the amplifier off after a set amount of time when no input signal has been detected, has been added. Internal wiring and select circuit components have also been upgraded.

"A great amplifier not only in size but also in performance, capable of a refinement unthinkable for a beast of over 115 lbs (50 kg)." - Fedelta del Suono

Aesthetically, the MC462 retains all the hallmarks of a McIntosh amplifier with a few key modern enhancements. The front panel now utilizes direct LED backlighting that improves appearance and color accuracy. The two audio Autoformers and single power transformer are housed in new enclosures topped by a single machined cover with glass inserts. The back half of the amplifier is home to four of our Monogrammed Heatsinks™ which connect to advanced high current output transistors that help eliminate thermal equilibrium lag time.

The MC462 Amplifier and C53 Preamplifier named 2021 "Stereo Pre-Power Amplifiers of the Year Over AU$20,000." - Sound+Image

Besides these updates, the MC462 is packed full of other exclusive McIntosh technologies to bring your music to life:

"It does everything right and nothing wrong, is built to last for generations, and sounds amazing no matter what speakers you connect to it." - Lyd & Bilde

The balanced and unbalanced outputs make bi-amping or tri-amping your speakerseasier; they can also be used to send the audio signal to a secondary system if your preamplifierdoes not have enough outputs, or to connect a powered subwoofer. The MC462 sits on a beautiful polished stainless steel chassis and features the timeless McIntosh black glass front panel, illuminated logo, control knobs, aluminum handles and a pair of fast responding blue Watt meters. Contact your local dealerto learn more.

Specifications

Electronic Specifications

FTC Power Output Rating

450 W

Power Output per Channel

450 W into 2, 4 or 8 ohms

Number of Channels

2

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.005%

S/N below rated output

122dB

Dynamic Headroom

3.0dB

Damping Factor

>40 Wideband

Rated Power Band

20Hz to 20kHz

Frequency Response

+0, -0.25dB from 20Hz to 20kHz

+0, -3.0dB from 10Hz to 100kHz

Control

Remote Power Control

Yes

Multi-Channel DB25 Cable

N/A

General Specifications

Circuit Configuration

Quad Balanced

Circuit Design

Solid State

Mono Bridge

No

Mono Parallel

No

Output Type

Autoformer™

Meters

Yes

Meter Light Switch

Yes

Balanced Input

2

Front Panel

Glass with handles

Illumination

Direct LED

Chassis Style

Polished stainless steel & black painted steel

Connectivity

Speaker Binding Post Type

Patented Solid Cinch™ Speaker Binding Posts

Weights & Dimensions

Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)

17-1/2" (44.45cm) x 9-7/16" (23.97cm) (including feet) x 22-1/2" (57.2cm) (including front panel, handles and cables)

Unit Weight

115 lbs (52.3 kg)

Shipping Weight

148 lbs (67.3 kg)

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Do you price match?

Yes. We match any authorised dealer, including big-box retailers. If you find the same product at a lower price, contact us and we'll match it.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — free shipping on every order, with 2-day delivery available on most products. Easy returns and exchanges are included.

Where is your showroom?

We're at 6362 Alder Drive, Houston, Texas. The showroom lets you hear and compare reference-level systems in person before making any decisions. If you're considering a larger purchase or installation, it's well worth the visit.

Can I buy online without visiting the showroom?

Yes. The full product range is available through the online store with free nationwide shipping. For more complex system builds, speaking with one of our advisers first tends to lead to a better result.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Special financing is available through the BrandSource Credit Card for qualifying purchases, allowing you to spread payments over time with no annual fee. Promotional rebate savings are also available periodically. See the financing page for full details.

Do you install systems as well as sell equipment?

Yes — installation is central to what we do. We design and install whole-home audio and video, home theaters, media rooms, outdoor audio, lighting and motorised shades, and full smart home automation.

Do you provide support after installation?

Yes. We provide ongoing service and support to ensure systems continue performing as intended — not just on installation day, but over the long term.