Figure 11
Figure 9

How to Operate

How to Operate

Power On

To have the MC2301 automatically turn On or Off when a control center turns on or off, rotate the power switch to the remote position. For manual opera-

tion, rotate the power switch to the On or Off position as desired. Refer to figure 8.

Note: There must be a power control connection between the MC2301 and the McIntosh Control Center,

in order for the remote powerFigure 8 turn-on to function.

Meter Selection

Rotate the meter mode switch to select the meter operation mode you desire. Refer to figures 9 and 10.

Lights Off - Meter lights are turned off and the meter will contin- ue to indicate the power output.

Note: When Power

Control Input of the MC2301 is connect- ed to a McIntosh A/V Control Center or Preamplifier with Remote Meter Illumi- nation Control, the Meter Illumination will automatically be remotely con- trolled (On/Off) with the METER Switch set to the WATTS or HOLD position.

Watts- The meter responds to all the musical infor- mation being produced by the amplifier. It indicates to an accuracy of at least 95% of the power output with only a single cycle of a 2000Hz tone burst.

Figure 10

Hold - The meter pointer is locked to the highest power peak in a sequence of peaks. It is electronically held to this power level until a higher power peak passes through the

amplifier. The meter pointer will then rise to the newer higher indication. If no further power peaks are reached, the meter pointer will very slowly return to its rest position or lower power level. The decay rate is approxi- mately 6dB per minute.

Input Mode Switch

The Input Mode Switch, which is located on the Rear Panel of the MC2301, allows you to select either the BAL (Bal- anced) or UNBAL (Unbalanced) Input. Refer to figure 11.

Standby/Protection Indicator

The MC2301 Sentry Monitor Tube Protec- tion Circuitry provides protection to the Power Amplifier in the event of an imped- ance mismatch1 between the MC2301 and

the Loudspeaker. It will also activate if

there is a short circuit at the MC2301 Output Terminals (or the Loudspeaker Terminals) or if a MC2301 Power Out- put Tube should fail. During normal operation the Sentry Monitor Tube Protection Circuitry has no effect on the performance of the Power Amplifier.

In the event a problem occurs, the MC2301 Sentry Monitor Tube Protection Circuitry will activate to prevent potentially destructive high levels of current from flowing in the amplifier. The Front Panel Standby LED will start flashing indicating the Protection Circuitry is active. Refer to the illustration on page 16 for the location of Standby LED.

To reset the Sentry Monitor Tube Protection Circuitry place the POWER Switch to the OFF position. After wait- ing approximately one minute, place the POWER Switch to the REMOTE or ON position.

1This can occur when a Loudspeaker of a given impedance rating is connected to the MC2301 Output Terminals with a different impedance rating. For example, a Loudspeaker with an impedance rating of 2 Ohm is connected the MC2301 8 Ohm Output Terminals. The impedance of a Loudspeaker actually varies as the Loudspeaker reproduces different frequencies. As a result, the nominal impedance rating of the Loudspeaker (usually measured at a midrange frequency) might not always agree with the impedance of the Loud- speaker at low frequencies where the greatest amount of power is required.

17

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McIntosh MC2301 owner manual How to Operate, Power On, Meter Selection, Input Mode Switch, Standby/Protection Indicator
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MC2301 specifications

The McIntosh MC2301 is an exceptional tube amplifier renowned for its unique blend of classic design and modern technology. Launched by the prestigious audio brand McIntosh, this amplifier embodies the company’s commitment to high-quality sound reproduction. The MC2301 is specifically designed to deliver an unmatched listening experience for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

At the heart of the MC2301 are its powerful tubes, producing 300 watts of output power. It employs a push-pull design using eight matched output vacuum tubes in a stunning monoblock configuration. This setup effectively delivers a rich, warm sound that only tube amplifiers can provide, contributing to a lush audio experience and bringing out nuances in music that solid-state amplifiers often miss.

One of the standout features of the MC2301 is its ability to preserve fidelity at various volume levels, thanks to its advanced circuit design. The amplifier incorporates McIntosh's patented Power Guard technology, which prevents clipping and distortion, ensuring that your music plays clearly and without compromise even at high volumes. This is particularly useful in high-demand listening sessions, where performance consistency is crucial.

The MC2301 also features the innovative Sentry Monitor circuit, which protects the amplifier from short circuits and overloads. This circuit continuously monitors the output stage and disconnects the output if it detects any issues, allowing the amplifier to maintain longevity and reliability in performance.

In terms of aesthetics, the MC2301 is visually stunning, maintaining McIntosh’s heritage style with its iconic glass front panel, illuminated logo, and distinctive blue watt meters. The build quality is remarkable, using carefully selected materials to ensure both durability and elegance.

Furthermore, the MC2301 includes balanced and unbalanced inputs, allowing for flexibility in connectivity. Its ability to pair seamlessly with various audio sources makes it a versatile choice for any high-fidelity system.

Overall, the McIntosh MC2301 amplifier is a perfect fusion of vintage-inspired sound craftsmanship and modern engineering, making it an outstanding choice for those seeking to elevate their audio experience. Its combination of power, protection, and pristine sound quality solidifies its status as a flagship product in the world of high-end audio. Whether powering a sophisticated home audio system or used in a professional setting, the MC2301 is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles.
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