McIntosh MC-2kw User Manual

Power Amplifier

MC2KW

Owner’s Manual

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]

The lightning flash with arrowhead,
within an equilateral triangle, is in­tended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may
be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of im­portant operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the litera­ture accompanying the appliance.

WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK OF

FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO

NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO

RAIN OR MOISTURE.

IMPORTANT SAFETY

INSTRUCTIONS!

PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE

OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized
or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prong are
provided for your safety. If the provided plug does
not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.

12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS

INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO

QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover or

back. No user-serviceable parts inside.

the apparatus. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart/
apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.

13. Unplug this apparatus during
lightning storms or when unused for long periods
of time.

14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord
or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or
splashing and ensure that no objects filled with
liquids, such as vases, are placed on the
equipment.

16. To completely disconnect this equipment from the
a.c. mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug
from the a.c. receptacle.

17. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall
remain readily operable.

18.

This apparatus is capable of driving

Loudspeakers (even low efficiency types), into
producing extremely high sound pressure
levels. User caution is advised. Ear protection

is recommended when playing at high volumes
as continued exposure to high sound pressure
levels can cause permanent hearing impair­ment or loss.

19. Do not place the protective blue cloth cover on
the equipment when the power supply cord is
connected.

2

Safety Instructions

Thank You

Your decision to own this McIntosh MC2KW Power Ampli­fier ranks you at the very top among discriminating music
listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh dedica­tion to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive many
years of musical enjoyment from this unit.

Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all
the features and functions of your new McIntosh.

Please Take A Moment

The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer
name are important to you for possible insurance claim or
future service. The spaces below have been provided for
you to record that information:

Serial Number:

Purchase Date:

Dealer Name:

Technical Assistance

If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh
product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar with
your McIntosh equipment and any other brands that may be
part of your system. If you or your Dealer wish additional
help concerning a suspected problem, you can receive tech­nical assistance for all McIntosh products at:

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Table of Contents

Safety Instructions ............................................................ 2

Thank You and Please Take a Moment ............................. 3

Technical Assistance and Customer Service ..................... 3

Table of Contents .............................................................. 3

Important Information and Connector Information ........... 4

Introduction ....................................................................... 4

Performance Features ....................................................... 5

Dimensions ..................................................................... 6-7

Installation ..................................................................... 8-9

Connections:

MC2KW Output Module Rear Panel Connections .......... 10

MC2KW Power Module Rear Panel Connections ........... 11

How to Connect the MC2KW Output Module and
Power Modules together; for Power Control and

Audio Connections ...................................................... 12-13

How to Connect the MC2KW Output Module to

Loudspeakers .............................................................. 14-15

Front Panel Features:

MC2KW Output Module Front Panel Controls

and Displays..................................................................... 16

MC2KW Power Module Front Panel .............................. 16

Operation:

How to Operate the MC2KW Power Amplifier ............... 17

Additional Information:

Technical Description....................................................... 18

Photos ......................................................................... 23-27

Block Diagram ................................................................. 29

Specifications ................................................................... 30

Packing Instruction .......................................................... 31

Customer Service

If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in need of
repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You can also return
it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service Department. For as­sistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the
McIntosh Service Department at:

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Copyright 2005 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

3

Important Information

Caution: The MC2KW Power Module weight is 158

pounds (71.7 kilograms) and the MC2KW Output
Module weight is 121 pounds (54.9 kilograms). It
requires two or more persons to safely handle
when moving the Power or Output Module.

1. The MC2KW Power Amplifier consists of one MC2KW
Output Module and two MC2KW Power Modules.

2. The following Connecting Cable is available from the
McIntosh Parts Department:

Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202

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

Power Module to Output Module Cable Part No.
171-611

Three foot, shielded 21 conductor, low current,
male-to-male custom cable, one required between each
MC2KW Power Module and MC2KW Output Module.

Power Module to Output Module Cable Part No.
171-620

Three foot, shielded 16 conductor, high current,
male-to-male custom cable, one required between each
MC2KW Power Module and MC2KW Output Module.

3. For additional connection information, refer to the owner’s
manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the MC2KW
Power Amplifier.

4. It is very important that loudspeaker cables of adequate size
be used, so that there will be no power loss. The size is
specified in Gauge Numbers or AWG (American Wire
Gauge). The smaller the Gauge number, the larger the wire
size:

If your loudspeaker cables are 50 feet (38.1m) or less,
use at least 12 Gauge.
If your loudspeaker cables are 100 feet (76.2m) or less,
use at least 10 Gauge.

5. The MC2KW Power Amplifier incorporates the very latest in
Fully Double Balanced Circuitry. As a result, the
Loudspeaker Negative Connections are above chassis
ground. Do not combine any connections together, ground
them or connect with another MC2KW Power Amplifier.

6. Each of the MC2KW Power Modules needs to be connected
to a dedicated AC Circuit with Outlet. The type and size of
the dedicated AC Circuit with Outlet needs to be in
accorandance with the Local Electrical Wiring Codes1.
Always contact your McIntosh Dealer and Certified
Electrician for addition information and assistance. The
MC2KW Output Module should be connected to a third
separate AC Circuit with Outlet. The third AC Circuit with
Outlet may also have other McIntosh and Non-McIntosh
Component(s) connected, including additional MC2KW
Output Modules.

1

20 Amp, 120Volt AC Circuit is for use in the United States and
Canada only.

Important Information and Introduction

7. The AC Power Cables going to the MC2KW Power Modules,
MC2KW Output Module and any other McIntosh
Component(s) should not be connected to AC Power Outlets
until all the system components are connected together.

8. The MC2KW Power Amplifier mutes the speaker output for
approximately two seconds when first turned on.

9. In the event that either or both MC2KW Power Modules
over heat, due to improper ventilation and/or high ambient
temperature, the protection circuits will activate. The sound
will be muted and the MC2KW Output Module Front Panel
Power Guard LED will continuously indicate ON. When the
MC2KW Power Modules have returned to a safe operating
temperature, normal operation will resume.

10. Each MC2KW Power Module connects to the MC2KW
Output Module with two different supplied custom cables.
If both cables, from each MC2KW Power Module, are not
connected correctly to the MC2KW Output Module, the
MC2KW Power Amplifier will not power up. Refer to pages
12 and 13 for additional information on connecting the
MC2KW Power Modules to the MC2KW Output Module.

Connector Information

XLR Connectors

Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced Input
and Output Connectors on the MC2KW Output Module.
Refer to the diagram for connection:

PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Signal
PIN 3: - Signal

Pin 2

Pin 1

Pin 3

Power Control Connectors

The MC2KW Output Module Power Control Input and
Output utilize a 5 volt signal. There is
an additional connection for control­ling illumination of the MC2KW Out­put Module Power Output Meter. Use
a 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plug to

Positive

Meter
Illumination
Control

Ground

connect to the Power Control Input on
other McIntosh Components.

Introduction

The MC2KW Power Amplifier with a Triple Chassis Mono
Block Design is the most powerful and finest audio Power
Amplifier McIntosh has ever created. No design compro­mises were allowed in the quest for a Power Amplifier with
absolute accuracy, total sonic purity and virtual elimination
of distortion and audible noise. It is capable of driving even
the most inefficient Loudspeakers to live concert hall vol­ume levels with a degree clarity never before achieved. For
those who have been searching for the “Best in a Power
Amplifier”, your wait is over.

4

Performance Features

Performance Features

••

• Triple Chassis Mono Block Design

••

For the first time, the new McIntosh MC2KW Power Am­plifier is capable of supplying the power required to repro­duce the full dynamic range of a symphony orchestra in­cluding pipe organ. This includes driving low efficiency
Loudspeakers in a large room to concert hall volume levels.
It can reproduce complex music with complete accuracy,
with no added distortion or noise. The Triple Chassis De­sign also allows for easier placement in a room than would
be possible in a single chassis design, yet with no compro­mise in performance or reliability.

• Power Output

The MC2KW Power Amplifier is capable of 2,000 watts
into 2, 4 or 8 ohm speakers with less than 0.005% distor­tion. It can provide peak current of 200 amperes and over
8,000 watts of power output on music bursts.

••

• Full Balanced Quad-Differential Circuitry

••

The MC2KW Power Amplifier is fully balanced from in­puts to outputs. It consists of two matched MC2KW Power
Modules, each operating in push-pull with their outputs
combined in a McIntosh Autoformer located in the
MC2KW Output Module. This double balanced configura­tion cancels virtually all distortion.

••

• Patented Power Guard

••

The patented McIntosh Power Guard circuit prevents the
amplifier from being overdriven into clipping, with its harsh
distorted sound that can also damage Loudspeakers.

••

• Patented Sentry Monitor and Thermal Protection

••

McIntosh Sentry Monitor power output stage protection cir­cuits ensuring each MC2KW Power Module will have a
long and trouble free operating life. Built-in Thermal Pro­tection Circuits guard against overheating.

••

• Patented Autoformer

••

McIntosh designed and manufactured Output Autoformers
provide an ideal match between the amplifier output stages
and speaker loads of 2, 4 and 8 ohms. The Autoformers also
provide perfect DC protection for your valuable Loudspeak­ers.

••

• Illuminated Power Meter

••

The Illuminated Power Output Watt Meter 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.

••

• Power Control

••

The McIntosh Power Control Circuit allows for remote
turn-on of the MC2KW Power Amplifier from a McIntosh
Audio/Video Control Center or Preamplifier. If any addi­tional McIntosh Power Amplifiers are part of the system,
there is a delayed Power Control Output. This delayed trig­ger reduces the strain on the house’s electrical wiring and
protection devices.

••

• Balanced Inputs and Gold Plated Outputs

••

Balanced connections guard against induced noise and al­low long cable runs without compromising sound quality.
There are three sets of gold plated five way binding posts
for each of the three output impedances.

••

• Precision Parts

••

All resistors are precision metal film type. Low dielectric
absorption film capacitors are used in all critical circuit lo­cations.

••

• Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination

••

The Illumination of the 1/2 inch thick laser etched Front
Panel Glass is accomplished by the combination of custom
designed Fiber Optic Light Diffusers and Light Emitting
Diodes (LEDs). This provides even Front Panel Illumina­tion, together with the extra long life LEDs.

••

• Glass Front Panel and Super Mirror Chassis Finish

••

The famous McIntosh Illuminated Glass Front Panel with a
Stainless Steel Chassis with Super Mirror Finish ensures
the pristine beauty of the MC2KW will be retained for
many years.

••

• Machined Top and Side Panels

••

The Top and Sides of the MC2KW Output and Power Mod­ules are machined from thick aluminum panels with a
smooth black anodized finish. There is a screened glass
panel in the recessed areas of the Top Panel, with a block
diagram of the Circuitry.

••

• Special Power Supplies

••

The MC2KW Output Module utilizes a special R-Core
Power Transformer together with an electronically fully
regulated Power Supply Circuitry. The MC2KW Power
Modules each utilize a large Toroidal Wound Power Trans­former with large filter capacitors capable of storing 430
Joules of energy.

5

Dimensions

The following dimensions can assist in determining the best
location for the MC2KW Output Module and MC2KW
Power Modules. There is additional information on page 8
pertaining to installing the MC2KW Output Module and
MC2KW Power Modules into cabinets.

17-

3/4

45.09cm

"

Front View of the
MC2KW Output Module

Rear View of the
MC2KW Output Module

17-

1/4

43.82cm

12-

1/4

31.11cm

11"

27.94cm

12-

5/16

31.27cm

"

"

"

20"

50.80cm

19

-3/8

1-

5/8

"

4.12cm

Side View of the
MC2KW Output Module

1-

3/8

"

3.49cm

6

49.21cm

14"

35.60cm

"

10-

5/8

"

26.99cm

3/16

"

0.48cm

1-

9/16

"

3.96cm

17-3/4"

45.09cm

17-

1/4

43.82cm

Dimensions

"

Front View of the
MC2KW Power Module

Rear View of the
MC2KW Power Module

17-1/4"

43.82cm

12-1/4"

31.11cm

11"

27.94cm

12-5/16"

31.27cm

Top View of the
MC2KW Output Module

1/4

17-

43.82cm

8

-7/8

"

22.54cm

8

-1/16

"

20.48cm

"

20"

50.80cm

1-5/8"

4.12cm

19-3/8"

49.21cm

Top View of the
MC2KW Power Module

Side View of the
MC2KW Power Module

1-3/8"

3.49cm

7

14"

35.60cm

3/16

0.48cm

10-5/8"

26.99cm

"

1-9/16"

3.96cm

8

-7/8

"

22.54cm

8

-1/16

20.48cm

"

7

Installation

The MC2KW Output Module and MC2KW Power
Modules can be placed upright on a table or shelf,
standing on their four feet. If the Output Module
and the two Power Modules are to be stacked verti­cally, the middle unit should be the Output Module.
There should be at least 6 inches (15.24 cm) of
space between the bottom of the upper Power
Module and the top of Output Module. Likewise,
there should be at least 6 inches (15.24 cm) of
space between the bottom of the Output Module
and the top of lower Power Module.

The four feet, may be removed from the bottom
of the MC2KW Output Module and each of the
MC2KW Power Modules when they are custom
installed. The four feet from each unit, together
with the mounting screws should be retained for
possible future use if the MC2KW Output Module
and MC2KW Power Modules are removed from a
custom installation and used free standing again.
They also can be custom installed in a piece of fur­niture or cabinet of your choice. The required panel
cutout, ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are
shown.

Always provide adequate ventilation for the
MC2KW Output Module and MC2KW Power
Modules. Cool operation ensures the longest pos­sible operating life for any electronic instrument.
Do not install the units directly above a heat gener­ating component such as other high powered am­plifiers. If all the components are installed in a
single cabinet, a quiet running ventilation fan can
be a definite asset in maintaining all the system
components at the coolest possible operating tem­perature.

A custom cabinet installation should provide the
following minimum spacing dimensions for cool
operation. For the MC2KW Output Module allow
at least 2 inches (5.08 cm) above the top, 2 inches
(5.08cm) below the bottom and 1 inch (2.54 cm)
on each side, so that airflow is not obstructed. The
air spaces for the MC2KW Power Module include
at least 6 inches (15.24cm) above the top, 2 inches
(5.08cm) below the bottom and 2 inches (5.08cm)
on each side, so that airflow is not obstructed. Al­low 25 inches (63.5cm) depth behind the front
panel1 for Interconnect Cables. Allow 1 inch (2.54
cm) in front of the mounting panel for clearance.
When the MC2KW Output Module and MC2KW
Power Modules are to be installed in custom cabi-

nets refer to illustrations to the right. Be sure to cut
out a ventilation hole in the mounting shelf accord­ing to the dimensions in the drawing.

If the custom cabinet is to be an enclosed design
ventilation fans located in the bottom of the cabinet
(for cool air flow input) and fans located in the top
of the cabinet (for warm air flow removal) are re­quired. The ventilaton fans should be capable of an
airflow minimum of 100 Cubic Feet per Minute.

1

Interconnect Cables are supplied with the MC2KW

Power Amplifier. They are used to connect to the
MC2KW Output Module with the two MC2KW Power
Modules.

MC2KW Power Module
Front Panel Custom
Cabinet Cutout

Opening
for Ventilation

MC2KW Power Module
Side View in Custom
Cabinet

MC2KW Power Module
Bottom View in Custom
Cabinet

Cabinet
Front
Panel

Support
Shelf

21/32

1.67cm

17-1/4"

43.82cm

10-5/8"

26.99cm

6"

15.24cm

Cutout Opening for Ventilation

1"

2.54cm

Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting

Chassis
Spacers

14-1/2"

"

Cutout Opening
for Ventilation

36.83cm

14"

35.56cm

15-5/16"

38.91cm

8 8

Installation

MC2KW Power Module
Front Panel Custom
Cabinet Cutout

Opening
for Ventilation

Cabinet
Front
Panel

6"

15.24cm

17-

1/4

"

43.82cm

Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting

10-

5/8

26.99cm

Enclosed Custom Cabinet

Warm Air
Output

"

Ventilaton Fans

MC2KW
Power Module A
Side View

MC2KW
Output Module
Side View

Cutout Opening for Ventilation

6"

15.24cm

MC2KW Power Module
Side View in Custom
Cabinet

MC2KW Power Module
Bottom View in Custom
Cabinet

Support
Shelf

21/32

1.67cm

Cutout Opening for Ventilation

6"

15.24cm

MC2KW

Cutout Opening for Ventilation

Power Module B
Side View

1

"

2.54cm

14-

1/2

"

"

36.83cm

14"

Cutout Opening
for Ventilation

35.56cm

Chassis
Spacers

15-

5/16

38.91cm

Cutout Opening for Ventilation

Cool Air
Input

"

Ventilaton Fans

Note: The Ventilaton Fans should be capable of an
Airflow minimum of 100 Cubic Feet per Minute.

99

Main Fuse holder, refer to
information on the back
panel of the MC2KW
Output Module to deter­mine the correct fuse size
and rating

MC2KW Output Module Rear Panel Connections

OUTPUT Connections
A, B, and C for a 2 ohm
Loudspeaker

OUTPUT Connections
A, B, and C for a 4 ohm
Loudspeaker

OUTPUT Connections
A, B, and C for a 8 ohm
Loudspeaker

Connect the MC2KW
Output Module Power
Cord to a separate live
AC outlet. Refer to infor­mation on the back panel
of the MC2KW Output
Module to determine the
correct voltage for your
unit

MC2KW OUTPUT MOD­ULE (A) Connector 1 accepts
the custom McIntosh 16
Conductor Cable. This cable
attaches to the MC2KW
POWER MODULE (A) Con­nector 1. It connects the posi­tive power output signal from
the MC2KW POWER MOD­ULE to the Autoformer in­side the MC2KW OUTPUT
MODULE

MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE (A)
Connector 2 accepts the custom
McIntosh 21 Conductor Cable.
This cable attaches to the
MC2KW POWER MODULE (A)
Connector 2. It connects the posi­tive input signal, control and
power supply voltages to the
MC2KW POWER MODULE

POWER CONTROL
IN receives a turn
On/Off Trigger from
a McIntosh compo­nent. POWER CON­TROL OUT sends a
turn On/Off Trigger
to the next McIntosh
component

BALANCED INPUTS
for audio cables from a
preamplifier or control
center audio output.
BALANCED OUTPUT
to provide signal for
the next Power Ampli­fier

INPUT MODE switch
selects BALanced or
UNBALanced Inputs

UNBALANCED INput
for an audio cable from
a preamplifier or con­trol center audio out­put. UNBALANCED
OUTput provides the
input signal for the
next Power Amplifier

MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE (B)
Connector 1 accepts the custom
McIntosh 16 Conductor Cable. This
cable attaches to the MC2KW
POWER MODULE (B) Connector

1. It connects the negative power
output signal from the MC2KW
POWER MODULE to the
Autoformer inside the MC2KW
OUTPUT MODULE

Caution: The Loudspeaker

Negative Connections for
each impedance (2, 4 and
8 ohms) are above chassis
ground. Do not combine
any connections together,
ground them or connect
with another MC2KW
Power Amplifier or any
other Power Amplifier.

MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE (B)
Connector 2 accepts the custom
McIntosh 21 Conductor Cable. This
cable attaches to the MC2KW
POWER MODULE (B) Connector 2.
It connects the negative input signal,
control and power supply voltages to
the MC2KW POWER MODULE

10 10

MC2KW Power Module Rear Panel Connections

Connect the MC2KW Power Module
power cord to a dedicated live AC Cir­cuit with Outlet1. Refer to information
on the back panel of the MC2KW
Power Module to determine the correct
voltage for your unit.

CIRCUIT BREAKER
Press to reset if the
MC2KW Power Module
will not power up

1

Each of the MC2KW Power Modules needs to be connected
to a dedicated AC Circuit with Outlet. Refer to “Important
Information” note 5 on page 4 in this Owner’s Manual for
additional information.

MC2KW POWER MODULE (A or B)
Connector 1 accepts the custom McIn­tosh 16 Conductor Cable. This cable
attaches to the MC2KW OUTPUT
MODULE (A or B )2 Connector 1. It
connects the power output signal of the
MC2KW POWER MODULE to the
Autoformer inside the MC2KW OUT­PUT MODULE.

2

MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE (A or B)

2

Connector 2 accepts the custom McIntosh
21 Conductor Cable. This cable attaches
to the MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE (A
or B)2 Connector 2. It connects the input
signal, control and power supply voltages
from the MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE.

2

A MC2KW Power Amplifier consists of one MC2KW

Output Module and two MC2KW Power Modules. The
first MC2KW Power Module is refered to as chassis
“A” and the second MC2KW Power Module is
refered to as chassis “B”. Both MC2KW Power
Modules “A” and “B” connect to the same MC2KW
Output Module.

1111

How to Connect the MC2KW Output
Module/Power Modules together;
Power Control and Audio connections

These two pages contain information for connect­ing together the McIntosh MC2KW Output Mod­ule and the MC2KW Power Modules; and that
combination to the C1000 Preamplifier.
McIntosh’s Power Control connections allows for
unified audio system operations, one push-button
to switch the entire system On or Off. The follow­ing steps also include connections from the
C1000’s Right Channel Main Audio Output to the
MC2KW Power Amplifier (Right Channel). The
second MC2KW Power Amplifier (Left Channel)
Audio is connected in a similar manner.

1. Connect one of the supplied custom 16 Con­ductor Cables from the MC2KW Output Mod­ule TO POWER MODULE (A) Connector 1
to the MC2KW Power Module (A)
Connector 1.

Note: After the cable connector is firmly seated

into the chassis socket, rotate the locking
collar clockwise until it is tight (do not
over tighten).

2. In a similar manner, connect the supplied cus­tom 21 Conductor Cable from the MC2KW
Output Module TO POWER MODULE (A)
Connector 2 to the MC2KW Power Module
(A) Connector 2.

3. Connect the remaining custom 16 Conductor
Cable from the MC2KW Output Module TO
POWER MODULE (B) Connector 1 to the
MC2KW Power Module (B) Connector 1.

4. In a similar manner, connect the remaining
custom 21 Conductor Cable from the MC2KW
Output Module TO POWER MODULE (B)
Connector 2 to the MC2KW Power Module
(B) Connector 2.

5. Connect a Power Control Cable from the
C1000C Power Control Main Jack to the
POWER CONTROL IN Jack on the McIntosh
MC2KW Output Module (Right Channel).
Then connect another Power Control Cable
from the McIntosh MC2KW Output Module
(Right Channel) POWER CONTROL OUT
Jack to the McIntosh MC2KW OUTPUT
MODULE (Left Channel) POWER CON­TROL IN In Jack.

Note: There is approximately a one-half second

delay added to the Power Control Output
Jack voltage in McIntosh Power

Amplifiers to reduce the strain on the AC
Power Line. This will delay the Turn-On
of the second McIntosh Power Amplifier
(left channel in this system). If there are
additional McIntosh Power Amplifiers in
the system, connect the POWER
CONTROL OUT Jack of the MC2KW
OUTPUT MODULE (Left Channel) to
the Power Control In on the next Power
Amplifier.

6. Connect a XLR Cable from the C1000 Pream­plifier or Tube Preamplifier Main Right Out­put Balanced, to one of the Balanced Inputs on
MC2KW Output Module (Right Channel).

Note: Unbalanced Inputs and Outputs may
optionally be used.

7. Place the INPUT MODE Switch on the Rear
Panel of the MC2KW Output Module to the
BALanced position if Balanced Connections
were utilized in step 6. If Unbalanced Connec­tions are used place the switch in the
UNBALanced position.

8. In a similar manner, connect a XLR Cable
from the C1000 Preamplifier or Tube Pream­plifier Main Left Output Balanced, to one of
the Balanced Inputs on the MC2KW Output
Module (Left Channel).

Note: If both C1000P and C1000T

Preamplifiers are used in the system, the
C1000 Tube Preamplifier Main Right
Output Balanced connects to the
remaining Balanced Input on MC2KW
Output Module; the Left Channel is
connected in a similar manner.

9. Proceed to page 14 for the connection of
Loudspeaker(s) to the MC2KW Power Ampli­fier.

McIntosh C1000 Tube Preamplifier

Connect to second
MC2KW
Output Module
(Left Channel)

McIntosh C1000 Controller

McIntosh C1000 Preamplifier

Connect to second
MC2KW
Output Module
(Left Channel)

12 12

How to Connect the MC2KW Output Module/Power Modules together, Power Control and Audio

MC2KW Output Module (Right Channel)

Connect to second

MC2KW Power Module (A) MC2KW Power Module (B)

MC2KW
Output Module
(Left Channel)
Power Control In

1313

How to Connect the MC2KW Output
Module to Loudspeakers

Caution: The supplied AC Power Cords should

not be connected to the Rear Panel of
the MC2KW Output Module and both of
the Power Modules 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. Using the supplied “T” shaped tool, remove the
two screws from the Rear Cover on the
MC2KW Output Module and remove the cover.
Place the cover and screws in a safe location.
Refer to figures 9 and 10.

Note: The MC2KW Output Module Removable

Covers consist of a Rear piece and Top
piece. In certain installations the
removal of the Top Cover in addition to
the Rear Cover might provide easier
access to the Output Connection
Terminals, refer to figures 9, 10 and 11.

2. Prepare the Loudspeaker Hookup Cables that
attach to the MC2KW Output Module by
choosing one of the methods below:

Note: Refer to page 4 “Important

Information” note 3 for cable size.

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 prepared
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 to secure the banana plug in
place. Refer to figures 7 and 8.

Note: The use of

Banana
Plugs is for
use in the
United States
and Canada
only.

3. For each of three output impedances there are
three sets of identical connection terminals (A,
B and C). This facilitates tri-cabling of Loud­speaker Connections to the MC2KW Output
Module.

4. Connect the Loudspeaker hookup cables to the
output terminals that match the impedance of
the Loudspeaker, being careful to observe the
correct polarities. Output impedance connec­tions of 2 ohms, 4 ohms and 8 ohms are pro­vided. If the Loudspeaker’s impedance is in­between the available connections, 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.

5. Re-attach the previously removed Cover(s)
making sure to route the Loudspeaker Cables
between the top of the Stainless Steel Chassis
and underneath the bottom Rear Cover. Refer
to figure 9.

6. Connect the AC Power Cords to each of the
MC2KW Power Modules and connect the plug
end of each cord to dedicated active AC out­lets. Connect the remaing AC Power Cord to
the MC2KW Output Module and connect the
plug end of the cord to a separate active AC
outlet. Refer to page 4 “Important Informa­tion” note 5 for AC Outlet. Refer to page 4
“Important Information” note 5 for AC Power
requirements.

Cover Mounting Screw Location

Opening for Cables

Figure 9

Top Cover Mounting
Screw Locations

Figure 10 Figure 11

Rear Cover

Top Cover

14 14

How to Connect the MC2KW Output Module to Loudspeakers

McIntosh
XRT2K
Loudspeaker

1515

MC2KW Output Module and MC2KW Power Module Front Panel Controls and Displays

METER indicates
the Power Output
of the MC2KW
Power Amplifier

POWER GUARD LED lights
when the MC2KW Power
Amplifier POWER GUARD
circuit activates

Illuminates when the
MC2KW Power
Module is On

16

METER Switch selects
the display modes of the
Power Output Meter

Pilot Light Indicates when the
MC2KW Output Module is
connected to AC Power

POWER Switch turns
the MC2KW Power Am­plifier Off, Remote (On/
Off) or On

16

How to Operate the MC2KW Power Amplifier

How to Operate the MC2KW Power Amplifier

Power On

With the POWER Switch set to the REMOTE Position, the
MC2KW Power Amplifier will
turn On or Off when a McIntosh
Preamplifier or A/V Control Cen­ter switches On or Off. For manual
operation, rotate the POWER
Switch to the ON or OFF Position
as desired. Refer to figure 12.

Notes: 1. There must be a power

control connection
between the MC2KW
OUTPUT MODULE
and the McIntosh
Preamplifier or A/V Control Center in order for
the remote power turn-on to function.

2. The MC2KW Power Modules will not switch On,
with the front Panel Illuminated, unless they are
connected to the MC2KW Output Module with the
supplied custom hookup cables and the Output
Module is switched On.

Figure 12

Meter Selection

Rotate the meter mode switch to select the meter operation
mode desired. Refer to figures 13 and 14.

Lights Off - Meter lights are turned off and the meter will

continue to indicate the power output.

Watts- The meters re-

spond to all the
musical informa­tion being pro­duced by the am­plifier. They indi­cate to an accu­racy of at least
95% of the
power output
with only a single

Figure 13

cycle of a 2000Hz tone burst.

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 indicate
the higher peak. 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 approximately 6dB per
minute.

Note: The MC2KW OUTPUT MODULE Power

Output Meter indicates the actual
wattage delivered to the loudspeakers by
responding to the combination of current
and voltage output.

Input Mode Switch

The Input Mode Switch, which is located on the Rear Panel
of the MC2KW OUTPUT MOD­ULE, allows selection of either the
Balanced or Unbalanced Input. Refer
to figure 15.

Pilot Light

When AC Power is applied to the

Figure 15

MC2KW the Front Panel Pilot Light
will illuminate. The Pilot Light is located about 1-1/2 inches
(3.81cm) below the Power Guard Light. Refer to figure 16.

Power Guard Light

The Power Guard Light, driven by the Power Guard Cir­cuitry, under normal conditions will
only illuminate momentarily during ex­tremely loud peaks in the music. This
occurs when the MC2KW Power Am­plifier is being asked to deliver a power
level way beyond its rated 2,000 watt
output. Refer to figure 16.

In the event that either or both

MC2KW Power Modules over heat,

Figure 16

due to improper ventilation and/or high
ambient temperature, the protection circuits will activate.
The sound will be muted and the MC2KW Output Module
Front Panel Power Guard LED will continuously indicate
ON. When the MC2KW Power Modules have returned to a
safe operating temperature, normal operation will resume.

Figure 14

17

Technical Description

McIntosh Laboratory, the company who introduced the
world’s first amplifier that could be called “High Fidelity”,
has done it again. The McIntosh engineering staff has cre­ated a power amplifier without compromise, using the most
advanced McIntosh circuit design concepts.

For the first time, the new McIntosh MC2KW Power
Amplifier is capable of supplying the power required to re­produce the full dynamic range of a symphony orchestra
including pipe organ. This includes driving low efficiency
Loudspeakers in a large room to concert hall volume levels.
It can reproduce complex music with complete accuracy,

with no added distortion or noise. The Triple Chassis De­sign also allows for easier placement in a room than would
be possible in a single chassis design, yet with no compro­mise in performance or reliability.

A continuous average power output rating of 2,000
watts and with a peak output current of 200 amperes,
makes this not only the most advanced, but also the most
powerful amplifier McIntosh has ever manufactured. The
distortion limits for the MC2KW Power Amplifier are no
more than 0.005% at rated power output for all frequencies
from 20Hz to 20,000Hz. Typical performance at mid fre-

18

Top View of the MC2KW Power Module

quencies is less than 0.002%. The true distortion readings
on the MC2KW Power Amplifier are so low, it takes special
measuring techniques to make accurate readings. The
MC2KW Power Amplifier can deliver the best possible per­formance from any type of high quality Loudspeaker Sys­tem.

Creating an amplifier with this level of performance did
not come easily. Many months of design, testing and mea­suring were required. Extensive controlled listening tests,
the ultimate form of measuring, were made before the final
design was accepted.

Design Philosophy

The design philosophy incorporated in the MC2KW Power
Amplifier involved several different techniques, all based on
sound scientific logic. Every stage of voltage or current am­plification must be as linear as possible prior to the use of
negative feedback. McIntosh Engineers know how to prop­erly design negative feedback circuits so they contribute to
the extremely low distortion performance expected from a
McIntosh Amplifier. The typical McIntosh owner would
never accept the approximately 100 times higher distortion
of many non-feedback designs.

All transistors are selected to have nearly constant cur­rent gain over the entire current range they must cover. The
48 Power Transistors used in each MC2KW Power Module
Output Circuitry, have matched uniform cur­rent gain, high current bandwidth product and
a large active region safe operating area.
These Power Transistors are the very latest in
semiconductor technology and incorporate a
new design known as ThermalTrak1. Refer to
figure 17. This allows for the instantaneous
and accurate monitoring of the Power Transis­tor Temperature. Each of the MC2KW Power
Modules has a specially designed bias circuit

Figure 17

to take full advantage of the ThermalTrak™ Power Transis­tors and thus precisely controls the power amplifier opera­tion over a wide range of music conditions with the benefits
of lower distortion and cooler operation. Precision metal
film resistors and low dielectric absorption film capacitors
are used in all critical circuit locations.

Each of the two MC2KW Power Modules utilizes a
Double Balanced Push-Pull design used from input to out­put. Each half of the amplifier contains complimentary bal­anced circuitry. Refer to figure 18. The resulting double bal-

Technical Description

Figure 18

anced configuration cancels even order distortion. The out­put signals from the two MC2KW Power Modules are
coupled together in the unique McIntosh MC2KW Power
Amplifier Output Autoformer. It provides low distortion
power transfer at frequencies from below 20Hz to well be­yond 20,000Hz with optimum impedance points of two
ohms, four ohms and eight ohms. The unequaled expertise
of McIntosh in the design and manufacturing of
autoformers is legendary in the high fidelity industry.
The high efficiency circuit design of the MC2KW Power
Amplifier contributes to low operating temperatures. More
than 2,800 square inches of heat sink area for each
MC2KW Power Module keep the Power Amplifier operat­ing safely with convection cooling. No fans are needed. Re­fer to figure 19.

Figure 19

1

ThermalTrak™ and ON Semiconductor are trademarks
of Semiconductor Components Industries, LLC

19

Autoformer

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All solid state power amplifier output circuits work best
into what is called an optimum load. This optimum load
may vary considerably from what a loudspeaker requires. In
the case of more than one loudspeaker connected in parallel,
the load to the power amplifier may drop to two ohms or
even less. A power amplifier connected to a load that is
lower than optimum, causes more output current to flow,
which results in extra heat being generated in the power out­put stage. This increase in temperature will result in a re­duced life expectancy for the amplifier.

The special Balanced Dual “C” Core Autoformer creates
an ideal match between the power amplifier output stage
and the loudspeaker. Refer to figure 20. A McIntosh ampli­fier with an Autoformer can be used to safely drive multiple

turing of Autoformers is legendary in the high fidelity indus­try. McIntosh Engineers know how to do it right.

Power Output Meter

The McIntosh MC2KW Power Amplifier has a huge hand
built Output Watt Meter that responds 95% full scale to a
single cycle tone burst at 2kHz. Refer to figure 21. Voltage

Figure 20

speakers without reducing the life expectancy of the power
amplifier.

There is absolutely no performance limitation with an
Autoformer. Its frequency response exceeds that of the out­put circuit itself, and extends well beyond the audible range.
Its distortion level is so low it is virtually impossible to
measure.

In the rare event of a power amplifier output circuit fail­ure, the McIntosh Autoformer provides absolute protection
from possible damage to valuable loudspeakers. The un­equaled expertise of McIntosh in the design and manufac-

Figure 21

and current output are electronically measured, multiplied
and fed to a special circuit that accelerates the pointer
movement in the upward direction. When the pointer
reaches its peak it pauses only long enough for the human
eye to perceive its position, then drops. It is almost 10 times
faster than a professional VU meter.

A front panel switch is provided to change the meter to
the Watts Hold Mode of operation. This allows fast upward
movement of the pointer but greatly increases Hold Time at
the peak of its travel. The highest power output of the
source material is thus recorded.

Protection Circuits

The MC2KW Power Amplifier incorporates the McIntosh
Sentry Monitor Output Transistor Protection Circuit. Refer
to Figure 22.
There is abso­lutely no com­promise in sonic
performance
with this circuit,
and it ensures
safe operation of
the amplifier un­der even the
most extreme
operating condi-

Figure 22

20

Technical Description, con’t

tions. The different types of protection circuits incorporated
in the MC2KW Power Amplifier insure a long and safe op­erating life. This is just one of the many characteristics of
McIntosh Power Amplifiers that make them world famous.

The MC2KW Power Amplifier also includes the unique
patented McIntosh Power Guard circuit. Power Guard
eliminates the possibility of ever overdriving the amplifier
into clipping. Refer to figures 23, 24 and 25. An overdriven
amplifier can produce both audible and inaudible distortion
levels exceeding
40%. The au-

Input Test Signal

dible distortion
is unpleasant to
hear, but the in­audible ultra­sonic distortion
is also undesir­able, since it can
damage valuable
loudspeaker sys­tem tweeters.
You will never
experience the
harsh and dam­aging distortion
due to clipping.

Figure 23

The Power
Guard circuit is a waveform comparator, monitoring both
the input and output waveforms. Under normal operating
conditions, there are no differences between the shape of
these waveforms.
If an amplifier

Without Power Guard

channel is
overdriven, there
will be a differ­ence between the
two signal wave­forms. When the
difference ex­ceeds 0.3%
(equivalent to

0.3% harmonic
distortion), the
Power Guard ac­tivates the PG
light and a dy­namic electronic
attenuator at the
amplifier input
reduces the input

Figure 24

volume just

With Power Guard

enough to pre­vent any further
increase in dis­tortion. The
Power Guard cir­cuit acts so fast
that there are ab­solutely no au­dible side effects
and the sonic pu­rity of the music
reproduction is
perfectly pre­served. The
MC2KW Power

Figure 25

Amplifier with
Power Guard is not limited to just the rated power output,
but will actually produce distortion free output well above
its rated power due to the McIntosh philosophy of conserva­tive design.

Power Supply Circuits

To compliment the fully balanced design of the MC2KW
Power Amplifier there is a high current, high voltage power
supply inside each of the MC2KW Power Modules. The
very large Power Transfomer has a toroidal windings on a
toroidal core. Refer to figure 26 (the golf ball is for size
comparsion). It is enclosed in the legendary McIntosh Pot­ted Enclosures and weighs over 26.6 pounds (12.06kg).

Figure 26

The super size main filter capacitors can store over 430

Joules of energy necessary for the wide dynamic range that

21

Technical Description, con’t

music demands and guarantees an excellent signal to noise
ratio. Refer to figure 27.

Figure 27

The MC2KW Output Module contains the low voltage
regulated power supplies for each of the MC2KW Power
Modules and for the Input Audio circuitry located inside the
MC2KW Output Module. Refer to figure 28. The special

cuit that provides remote Power Control from a McIntosh
Preamplifier or A/V Control Center. When the Preamplifier
or A/V Control Center is switched On a digital “1” (+5V)
signal changes the operational state of digital control cir­cuitry and a DC voltage is sent to each MC2KW Power
Module to activate the power relay. The two MC2KW
Power Modules return an acknowledgment signal to the
digital control circuitry and the MC2KW Output Module is
then allowed to switch On. Refer to figure 30.

Figure 28

“R” core transformer supplies the necessary voltage/current
for the low voltage regulated circuitry and is housed in a
shielded enclosure. Refer to figure 29.

Most
owners de­sire one
power
switch for
the whole
audio sys­tem. The
MC2KW
Power Am­plifier is
equipped
with a cir-

Figure 29

22

Figure 30

The MC2KW Power Amplifier also has a remote Power
Control Out Jack. The Power Control signal from this jack
is delayed by a fraction of a second so that the turn on
power surge of the next power amplifier occurs at a later
time. This helps prevent power circuit overload that could
trip circuit breakers or blow fuses, a very important feature
when mutiple MC2KW Power Amplifiers are used.

Photos

Top View of the MC2KW Output Module

23

Front View of the MC2KW Output Module

24

Front View of the MC2KW Power Module

Photos, con’t

Rear View of the MC2KW Output Module

Rear View of the MC2KW Power Module

25

Angle View of the MC2KW Output Module

26

Photos, con’t

Angle View of the MC2KW Power Module

27

Notes

28

MC2KW Power Amplifier Block Diagram

29

MC2KW Power Amplifier - Output Module with Power Modules A and B

29

Specifications

Power Amplifier Specifications

Power Output

2000 watts into an 8, 4 or 2 ohm load is the mini­mum sine wave continuous average power output.
The output RMS voltage is:

126.5V across 8 ohms

89.5V across 4 ohms

63.3V across 2 ohms

Output Load Impedance

8, 4 and 2 ohms (with three pairs of terminals each
for impedance)

Rated Power Band

20Hz to 20,000Hz

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.005% maximum harmonic distortion at any power
level from 250 milliwatts to 2000 watts, 20Hz to
20,000Hz

Dynamic Headroom

2dB

Frequency Response

+0, -0.25dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz
+0, -3dB from 10Hz to 100,000Hz

Sensitivity

5.0 Volts Balanced Input

2.5 Volts Unbalanced Input

A-Weighted Signal To Noise Ratio

90dB Unbalanced (123dB below rated output)
94dB Balanced (127dB below rated output)

General Specifications

MC2KW Output Module Power Requirements

100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts

MC2KW Power Module Power Requirements

100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 1440 watts
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 13.0 amps
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 12.0 amps
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 7.5 amps
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.5 amps
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.5 amps

Note: Refer to the rear panels of the MC2KW Output

Module and MC2KW Power Modules for the
correct voltage.

Overall Dimensions

MC2KW Output Module:
Width is 17-3/4 inches (45.09cm)
Height is 12-5/16 inches (31.27cm) including feet
Depth is 26-5/8 inches (62.54cm) including the
Front Panel, Handles, Knobs and Interconnect

2

Cables

MC2KW Power Module:
Width is 17-3/4 inches (45.09cm)
Height is 12-5/16 inches (31.27cm) including feet
Depth is 26-5/8 inches (62.54cm) including the
Front Panel,
Handles, and Interconnect Cables

2

1

Intermodulation Distortion

0.005% maximum, if instantaneous peak power
output does not exceed 4000 watts, for any combi­nation of frequencies from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Wide Band Damping Factor

Greater than 40

Input Impedance

10,000 ohms

Power Guard

Less than 2% THD with up to 14dB overdrive

30

Weight

MC2KW Output Module - 121 pounds (54.9 kg)

net

146 pounds (66.2 kg) in shipping carton

MC2KW Power Module - 158 pounds (71.7 kg) net

183 pounds (83.0 kg) in shipping carton

1

The Power Requirements listed are for each

MC2KW Power Module, two are required for
each MC2KW Power Amplifier

2

Interconnect Cables are supplied with the

MC2KW Output Module and both MC2KW
Power Molules connect to the MC2KW Output
Module

30

Packing Instructions

Packing Instructions

In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for ship­ment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown be-

It is very important that the four feet are attached to the

low.
bottom of the equipment. This will ensure the proper equip­ment location on the bottom foam pad. Failure to do this
will result in shipping damage. Also, to protect the finish of
the glass and metal surfaces it is advisable to place the
MC2KW Output Module and the MC2KW Power Modules
into the orginal protective cotton blue bag before placing
them into the shipping carton.

Note: Unless instructed otherwise, please return the

McIntosh Custom Interconnect Cables along with the
MC2KW Power Amplifier.

Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only if

they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping car-

ton or any of the interior part(s) are needed, please call or
write Customer Service Department of McIntosh Labora­tory. Please see the Part List for the correct part numbers.

Note: The McIntosh MC2KW Output Module and MC2HW

Power Module use the same shipping carton.

Quantity Part Number Description

1 034104 Shipping carton bottom
1 034105 Shipping carton top
1 034356 Protective blue cloth cover
4 018445 Feet
3 034349 Foam ring
2 034349 Foam pad (top and bottom)
1 034341 Shipping carton for

interconnect cables

31

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, NY 13903

The continuous improvement of its products is the
policy of McIntosh Laboratory Incorporated who
reserve the right to improve design without notice.

Printed in the U.S.A.

McIntosh Part No. 04094600