McIntosh MC501 Monoblock Amplifiers - 500W - Selectable 120V or World Voltage 220/240V

Free Shipping on *ALL* Electronics (Excluding Speakers, Contiguous 48 US States Only)

These came to us from their original owner in Europe, and the sticker on the back reflects that they were made for and sold into the European market.

If you live in the USA don't worry, there are provisions on the bottom of the amplifier that let us change/select 120V, 220V, or 240V to match where you'll be using them.

So if you live in a foreign market this is your chance to own a set of amps with all official certifications and assurances!

We've also ordered a set of original new 501 boxes direct from McIntosh so these can travel the world safely.

Overall condition is very good with no signs of abuse. The glass is intact, and the meters are bright, responsive, and clean.

Some Performance Features:

• Full Balanced Quad-Differential Circuitry
The MC501 is fully balanced from inputs to outputs. It consists of two matched power amplifiers operating in push-pull with their outputs combined in a McIntosh Autoformer. The double balanced configuration cancels virtually all distortion.

• Patented Autoformers
The McIntosh designed and manufactured Output
Autoformer provides an ideal match between the amplifier output stage and speaker loads of 2, 4 and 8 ohms. The Autoformer also provides perfect DC protection for your valuable Loudspeaker.

• Patented Power Guard
The patented McIntosh Power Guard Circuit prevents the amplifier from being over driven into clipping, with its harsh distorted sound that can also damage your valuable Loudspeaker.

The SkyFi Testing Process for Amplifiers (Solid State):

We start with a visual inspection of all internal components to make sure there are no signs of stress or aging. Capacitors are checked for telltale sings of bulging or leaking, resistors are checked for signs of overheating or cracking, and transistors are checked for signs of stress or damage.

We then power up the unit carefully and run a simple 1k sine wave while monitoring the output on an oscilloscope for signs of distortion or noise. Finally, we run the amplifier to its full rated power into the appropriate resistive load provided by our Sencore amplifier tester. If there is an issue, it will usually be noticeable at this point. If everything reads clean, we will often test for THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) measured by our Keithley distortion meter, and compare it against the original manufacturers specifications. The amplifier then remains powered on to "burn in" on our test bench for a few hours to make sure there are no heat related issues. If there are balanced inputs available they will be also be tested.

Final testing involves pushing actual music thorough the amplifier. We've learned over time that some issues are only noticeable to a trained ear while listening to familiar source material. Our test bench has reference vintage KEF speakers that we're very familiar with which quickly reveal any discrepancies. Some amplifiers will then move into our listening room where they are tested with our in-house reference speakers of choice.

Please click here for detailed specifics regarding our specialized packing process that separates us from the rest.