McIntosh MC2.1KW Monoblock Amplifier (Limited 75th Anniversary Edition)

The reference level McIntosh MC2.1KW Monoblock Power Amplifier is the ultimate power in home audio amplification. McIntosh's 75 years of experience as the leader of sound reproduction has led them to the MC2.1KW. The pinnacle of audio amplification, the MC2.1KW stands as a testament to McIntosh's unwavering commitment to sonic perfection. This tri-chassis marvel possesses the remarkable ability to deliver an astonishing 2,000 Watts of pristine power, forever transforming your home stereo or theater experience. The MC2.1KW is the embodiment of McIntosh's passion, and it invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey through sound.

Available separately or as part of McIntosh's Reference Music System and Reference Home Theater System, the MC2.1KW pairs seamlessly with the XRT2.1K Loudspeaker or its predecessor, the XRT2K. However, its versatility knows no bounds and it's not limited to just being used with McIntosh speakers; it can be used with a wide variety of other speakers as well. It is ideally suited for audio systems that have power hungry loudspeakers; systems located in extremely large rooms; or for audio enthusiasts who simply demand the latest and best in state-of-the-art home audio amplification.

The MC2.1KW consists of three separate modules: one Output Module and two Power Modules that each contain a 1,000 Watt amplifier. The incoming audio signal enters the Output Module from the preamplifier. An in-phase signal is sent from the Output Module to one of the Power Modules and is amplified. At the same time, an out-of-phase signal is sent to the other Power Module and amplified. Both amplified signals exit the Power Modules and reenter the Output Module where they drive opposite ends of the bi-filar wound McIntosh Autoformer™. This combines the two audio signals back into one with the power summed while any noise is reduced or completely canceled. Through this artful engineering, a low distortion audio signal leaves the Output Module to deliver pristine sound through your speaker.

Why are there three modules instead of one? There are two reasons. First is about practicality; each module weighs over 120 lbs (54 kg), so if it was just one module it would be very heavy (close to 400 lbs (181 kg)) and tough to move. With it being comprised of three modules, each is more manageable to move.

Another reason has to do with the electrical wiring typically found inside homes. If the MC2.1KW was just one module, it would need to plug into a high voltage outlet (for example: the kind of outlet used by electric ranges in the United States). With it divided up into three modules, each can have a more common plug that works with the type of outlets commonly found in homes so that special wiring does not need to be installed inside your walls.

McIntosh will be celebrating their 75th Anniversary in 2024. To commemorate this milestone, the first 75 pairs of MC2.1KW sold in 2024 to each country McIntosh is distributed in will include special anniversary badging.

 The Output Module will have a dual anodized laser-engraved badge proudly displaying McIntosh's 75th Anniversary logo on the top, while the handles on all three modules will have "75 years" engraved in them. These additions are sure to make every MC2.1KW built through 2024 a true collector's item for McIntosh enthusiasts.

Thanks to the hand wound Autoformer, the full 2,000 Watts of power can be delivered into a speaker regardless if its impedance is 2, 4 or 8 Ohms. This means you won't need to sacrifice any power if your speaker impedance doesn't match the amplifier's output impedance.

The MC2.1KW succeeds the MC2KW, which rocked the Las Vegas convention hall – and the entire audio world – when it was introduced at the 2005 CES Show. The next generation MC2.1KW offers many sonic upgrades. Chief among them are substantially larger filter capacitors that improve the performance of low end frequencies as well as significantly improving dynamic headroom. These eight larger capacitors are located in the Power Modules behind the custom Power Bank that is visible through the front panel glass.