How to Connect for Stereo

Caution: The supplied AC Power Cord should not be connected to the Rear Panel of the MC402 Amplifier until after the Loudspeaker Connections have been made and the supplied protective Terminal Connections Cover has been installed. Failure to observe this could result in Electric Shock.

1.For Remote Power Control, connect a power control cable from the Audio Control Center or Preamplifier Power Control Out to the MC402 Power Control In.

2.Connect cables from the Balanced Outputs of a McIn- tosh Preamplifier or Control Center to the MC402 Bal- anced Inputs.

Note: An optional hookup is to use unbalanced cables.

3.Prepare the Loudspeaker Hookup Cables that attach to the MC402 Power Amplifier by choosing one of the methods below:

Bare wire cable ends:

Carefully remove sufficient insulation from the cable ends, refer to figures 1,

2 & 3. If the cable is

stranded, carefully twist the strands together as

tightly as possible.

Note: If desired, the twisted ends can be tinned with solder to keep the strands together, or attach spade lug and/or banana connector.

Spade lug or prepared wire connection:

Insert the spade lug

connector or pre- pared section of the cable end into the terminal side access

hole, and tighten the terminal cap until the cable is firmly clamped into the terminal so the wires cannot slip out. Refer to figures 4, 5 & 6.

Banana plug connection:

Insert the banana plug into the hole at the top of the terminal. Tighten the top portion of the terminal post and the set screw to secure the banana plug in place.

Note: The Banana Plugs are for use in the United States and Canada only.

4.Remove the five screws from the MC402 Chassis Rear Panel and Left Side. Retain these screws for later use. Refer to figure 7.

5.Insert the Loudspeaker Hookup Cable Ends through the openings of the supplied Terminal Connections Cover and connect to the output terminals that match the Loudspeakers’ Impedance, being careful to observe the correct polarities. Output impedance connections of 2 ohms, 4 ohms and 8 ohms are provided. If the Loud- speakers’ Impedance is in-between the available con- nections, use the nearest lower impedance connection.

WARNING: Loudspeaker terminals are hazardous live and present a risk of electric shock. For additional instruction on making Loudspeaker Connections contact your McIntosh Dealer or McIntosh Technical Support.

6.Attach the Terminal Connections Cover, with the five previously removed screws, to the Rear Panel of the MC402 Amplifier. Refer to figure 7.

7.Connect the MC402 power cord to an active AC outlet.

	Terminal	Cover
		Mounting
	Connections
		Screw
	Cover
		Location

Cover		Cover
Mounting
		Mounting
Screw
		Screw
Locations
		Locations

		Cable Openings
		Figure 7

MC402 specifications

The McIntosh MC402 is a powerful and elegant amplifier that represents the pinnacle of high-fidelity audio performance. This two-channel amplifier stands out in the McIntosh lineup, delivering a robust 400 watts per channel into 2, 4, or 8-ohm loads. It is designed for audiophiles who seek uncompromising sound quality and superior performance, making it an ideal choice for both home studios and high-end listening rooms.

One of the standout features of the MC402 is its unique Autoformer technology, which allows the amplifier to deliver the same power output irrespective of the speaker impedance. This feature ensures that users enjoy consistent performance whether they are using 2-ohm, 4-ohm, or 8-ohm speakers. The use of transformers is integral to maintaining fidelity and output power while providing an additional layer of protection for the amplifier and connected speakers.

Additionally, the MC402 employs a quad balanced circuit design, which helps to eliminate distortion and achieve greater clarity in sound reproduction. This approach ensures that the audio signal remains pure from input to output, allowing listeners to experience their music in the way it was intended to be heard. The dual-construction design of the amplifier not only enhances its aesthetic appeal with the classic McIntosh blue meters and sleek black glass front but also contributes to its durability and reliability over time.

The amplifier features a robust cooling system that includes large heat sinks to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring optimal performance even during prolonged listening sessions at high power levels. This aspect of its design guarantees that the MC402 maintains a consistent performance without overheating.

In terms of connectivity, the MC402 is versatile, featuring balanced and unbalanced inputs to accommodate a variety of audio sources. The amplifier also has a signal sensing circuit that automatically turns it on when an audio signal is detected and powers it down when the signal is absent, helping conserve energy and adding convenience for users.

Overall, the McIntosh MC402 amplifier combines cutting-edge technology with timeless design. Its impressive power output, advanced circuitry, and robust construction make it a top choice for those who demand the best in audio performance. Whether driving efficient speakers or high-power systems, the MC402 is engineered to elevate your listening experience to new heights.