What Hi-Fi?
reviews the McIntosh MA252 as a hybrid integrated amplifier with an unusual tone control. The bass control offers a peak boost or cut of about ±10 dB at 75 Hz, resulting in an emphasis on the higher low frequencies and minimal impact on the lower frequencies. The treble control works more like a conventional treble control, but with limited shelving action. Signal-to-noise ratio is average, with 72 dB unweighted and 76 dB A-weighted at 1 watt output, improving to 92 dB and 95 dB at nominal output, respectively. Square wave tests show a small 1.5 dB elevator in the frequency response around 107 kHz, leading to a slight overshoot at the leading edge of the oscillograms. Nevertheless, the amplifier remains stable when driving reactive loads.
Stereo+ Magazine
describes the MA252 as a beautifully designed amplifier that offers a relaxed approach to music, yet plays with control and power. They call it "pure pleasure for the ears" and emphasize that voices and instruments sound natural and beautiful. The MA252 received a 5-star rating from the magazine.
Lyd & Bilde
calls the MA252 a "seductive" integrated amplifier that charms the eye as well as the ear. They highlight its solid dynamic capability and powerful bass performance. Praised for its ability to sound bigger than its size suggests, the amplifier received a rating of 5 out of 6 stars.
Son-Vidéo
finds the MA252 an "adaptable, solid and refined" amplifier that makes speakers sing effortlessly. They highlight its ability to make music sound natural, even at low volumes, with a sound signature that is smooth, energetic and consistently serene. Even with demanding songs, a sense of coherence is maintained.
HIFI Live Magazine
describes the MA252 as a time machine that transports listeners to both the past and the future, with a sonic fill of 25 square feet and an ability to disappear from the room. The amplifier received the magazine's High Quality Award.
PartTimeAudiophile
names the MA252 as a "best of both worlds" product that offers an enticing combination of tube romance and solid-state resolution and authority. They emphasize its superior simplicity and tangible connection to music, resulting in addictive listening sessions. The amplifier is praised for its performance and attractive price.
ON Magazine
reviews the MA252 as a fast, powerful and accurate device that retains the sublime McIntosh charm. Describing it as an almost unexpected gift from McIntosh at the end of 2017, they present it with their Top Audio Award.
HiFiReport
emphasizes that the MA252 offers warm, rounded tone and texture, with a sound that has no sharp edges. The low frequencies are heavy in weight but not in quality, and the amplifier delivers rich detail and information. Although slightly slower than McIntosh's high-end models, it offers an elegant and natural sound.
HIFI Live Magazine
describes the MA252 as a time machine that transports listeners to both the past and the future, with a sonic fill of 25 square feet and an ability to disappear from the room. The amplifier received the magazine's High Quality Award.
ON Magazine
reviews the MA252 as a fast, powerful and accurate device that retains the sublime McIntosh charm. Describing it as an almost unexpected gift from McIntosh at the end of 2017, they present it with their Top Audio Award.
PartTimeAudiophile
names the MA252 as a "best of both worlds" product that offers an enticing combination of tube romance and solid-state resolution and authority. They emphasize its superior simplicity and tangible connection to music, resulting in addictive listening sessions. The amplifier is praised for its performance and attractive price.
