Power Control
Meter Illumination Control Ground
On/Off sig-
PIN 1
PIN 2
PIN 3

Connector Information, Introduction and Performance Features

Connector and Cable Information

XLR Connectors

Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced In- put, Input/Output Connectors on the MC2301. Refer to the diagram for connection:

PIN 1: Shield/Ground

PIN 2: + Output

PIN 3: - Output

Power Control Connector The MC2301 Power Control Input receives an

nal from +5 to +12 volts. The Power Control Output will in turn provide a +12 volt Output Signal with a current up to 20mA. An additional connection is for controlling the illumination of

the MC2301 Power Output Meter. The

1/8 inch stereo mini phone plug connects to a McIntosh A/V Control Center Power Control Output.

Note: The Power Control Connecting Cable is available from the McIntosh Parts Department:

Data and Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202

Six foot, shielded 2 conductor, with 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plugs on each end.

Introduction

Now you can take advantage of traditional McIntosh standards of excellence in the MC2301 Tube Power Ampli- fier. The 300 watt power output will drive any high quality Loudspeaker System to its ultimate performance. The MC2301 reproduction is sonically transparent and abso- lutely accurate. The McIntosh Sound is “The Sound of the Music Itself.”

Performance Features

• Power Output

The MC2301 is a Tube Power Amplifier with a capabil- ity of 300 watts into 2, 4 or 8 ohm speakers with less than 0.5% distortion.

• Full Balanced Unity Coupled Circuitry

The MC2301 is fully balanced from input to output. It con- sists of two matched Power Amplifiers operating in push- pull using the famous McIntosh Patented Unity Coupled Circuit. The circuit outputs are combined in a dual core McIntosh Multifilar Wound Output Transformer for low distortion, extended frequency response and cool operating output tubes.

• Balanced and Unbalanced Input

Balanced connections guard against induced noise and al- low long cable runs without compromising sound quality.

•Sentry Monitor Tube and Thermal Protection McIntosh Sentry Monitor Tube Protection Circuits ensure the MC2301 will have a long and trouble free operating life. Built-in Thermal Protection Circuits guard against overheating.

•Illuminated Power Meter

The Illuminated Power Output Watt Meter on the MC2301 is peak responding, and indicates the true power output of the amplifier. The Peak Watt Hold Mode allows the meter to temporarily stay at the highest power output and then slowly decay. The Front Panel Meter Illumination may be switched Off at any time.

•Gold Plated Connectors and Tube Socket Contacts Gold Plated Input Jacks and Output Binding Posts provide trouble free connections. Ceramic tube sockets with gold plated contacts provide protection from atmospheric con- tamination. Output Tube Sockets include Air-Pipe cooling at their bases.

•Special Power Supply

A regulated Power Supply, a very large core Power Trans- former and large capacitors ensure stable noise free opera- tion even though the power line varies.

•Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination The even Illumination of the Front Panel is accomplished by the combination of custom designed Fiber Optic Light Diffusers and extra long life Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).

•Glass Front Panel and Super Mirror Chassis Finish The famous McIntosh Illuminated Glass Front Panel and the Stainless Steel Chassis with Super Mirror Finish en- sure the pristine beauty of the MC2301 will be retained for many years.

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McIntosh MC2301 owner manual Introduction, Performance Features
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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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