Description
The McIntosh MC275 VI Vacuum Tube Power Amplifier is one of the most enduring and influential designs in high-end audio history. First introduced in the early 1960s and reissued in 1993 to honour McIntosh co-founder Gordon Gow, the MC275 has become synonymous with reference-quality valve amplification. Now in its sixth generation, the MC275 continues to define what a modern vacuum tube amplifier should be.
While visually faithful to its heritage, the current MC275 incorporates numerous subtle engineering refinements that significantly improve performance. Advances in circuit design, thermal stability and output transformer bandwidth result in improved bass control, lower noise and greater overall musical coherence. The character remains unmistakably MC275: open, dynamic and richly detailed, with exceptional musical flow.
The MC275 offers exceptional flexibility. In stereo mode, it delivers 75 watts per channel into 4, 8 or 16 ohm loudspeakers. When configured in mono mode, it provides 150 watts into 2, 4 or 8 ohm loads, making it suitable for a wide range of loudspeakers and system configurations. McIntosh’s patented Unity Coupled Circuit output transformer technology ensures full rated power is delivered regardless of speaker impedance, preserving control and consistency under real-world conditions.
The output stage is powered by four KT88 vacuum tubes, supported by a carefully designed signal path using four 12AT7 and three 12AX7A tubes across the input, voltage and driver stages. Both balanced and unbalanced inputs are provided, allowing seamless integration with high-quality preamplifiers and modern audio systems.
Reliability and user confidence are built in. Sentry Monitor™ provides fuse-less short-circuit protection by disengaging the output stage if operating limits are exceeded, automatically resetting once safe conditions return. Solid Cinch™ gold-plated speaker binding posts ensure secure, corrosion-resistant speaker connections with excellent signal integrity.
The MC275 VI also features intelligent visual status indication. The seven small signal tubes are LED illuminated, glowing amber during start-up before turning green to indicate readiness. In the rare event of an output tube issue, the corresponding indicator turns red to alert the user. Power Control inputs and outputs allow coordinated on/off operation with other McIntosh components, simplifying system management.
At Hidden Home Technology, we continue to specify the McIntosh MC275 VI for clients seeking a timeless valve amplifier with proven musicality and modern reliability. Whether used as a stereo amplifier or as part of a mono-block configuration, the MC275 remains a cornerstone of reference two-channel systems.
Click here to see the higher-power valve alternative – McIntosh MC1502 Vacuum Tube Power Amplifier
Click here for the McIntosh website – McIntosh MC275 VI Vacuum Tube Power Amplifier
