McIntosh MC1.25KW is 71kg, 1200-watt monoblock amp

We'd love the know how much coffee McIntosh's engineers got through this year - since the summer, the American hi-fi brand has announced several amplifiers (including its most powerful ever integrated model, at 300 watts per channel) and first hybrid integrated amp. Now we can add the MC1.25KW monoblock model to that list.

Sitting below McIntosh’s three-piece, 2000-watt MC2KW, the MC1.25KW directly replaces the MC1.2KW. On paper, at least, it’s had quite an overhaul - “redesigned from top to bottom”, in fact.

The MC1.25KW includes a 50 per cent increase in filter capacity (with the aim of improving bass and dynamic performance), upgraded circuitry and power transformer, and the addition of McIntosh’s power management system (which turns the amp off when no input signal is detected).

The stainless steel chassis also sits on four newly redesigned, chamfered feet.

As you’d think necessary for an amplifier capable of 1200 watts of power, there are four heatsinks towards the rear of the chassis. They are connected to output transistors McIntosh claims can eliminate heat so quickly no warm-up time is required.

Aesthetically, the front panel (which features McIntosh’s signature control knobs and illuminated logo) has new LED backlighting, intended to improve appearance and colour accuracy. Around the back are both balanced and unbalanced outputs.

The MC1.25KW, priced at £29,995 per pair, will be shipping this month (US) and next (UK).

Don't forget Black Friday is just around the corner, and you'll be able to keep track of all the best deals on our Best Black Friday deals page.

MORE:

McIntosh launches MA252, its first hybrid integrated amplifier

Meet MA9000, the most powerful McIntosh integrated amp ever

The world according to McIntosh

McIntosh launches MA7200 and MAC7200 amplifiers

Best stereo amplifiers 2017

Becky Roberts

Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of Australian Hi-Fi magazine. During her 10 years in the hi-fi industry, she has been fortunate enough to travel the world to report on the biggest and most exciting brands in hi-fi and consumer tech (and has had the jetlag and hangovers to remember them by). In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.