McIntosh MCC406M User Manual

Power Amplifier

MCC406M

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 ducts, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. Warning: This unit is capable of producing high

sound pressure levels. Continued exposure to high
sound pressure levels can cause permanent hearing
impairment or loss. User caution is advised and ear
protection is recommended when playing at high
volumes.

10. Route DC power cords so that they are not likely to be

pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying
particular attention to the point where they enter the

apparatus.

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.

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

12. Do not mount this product with an unstable bracket as

apparatus may fall, causing serious injury to a

the
person, and serious damage to the product.

13. Unplug this apparatus 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
cable 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
apparatus.

2

Thank You

Table of Contents

Your decision to own this McIntosh MCC406M Six Chan­nel 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:

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

Thank You.......................................................................... 3

Please Take a Moment ....................................................... 3

Customer Service ............................................................... 3

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

Important Information ....................................................... 4

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

Performance Features ........................................................ 4

Dimensions ....................................................................... 5

Installation ........................................................................ 6

Side Panel Cooling and Connections ................................ 7

How to Connect for Six Channels ..................................... 8

How to Connect for Five Channels ................................. 10

How to Connect for Four Channels ................................. 11

How to Connect for Three Channels ............................... 12

Top Panel Controls, Displays and Switches .................... 14

How to Operate the MCC406M ...................................... 15

How to Operate in Six or Five Channel Mode ................ 16

How to Operate in Four or Three Channel Mode ............ 17

How to Replace the Fuses ............................................... 18

Block Diagram................................................................. 19

Specifications .................................................................. 22

Packing Instructions ........................................................ 23

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

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 2003  by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

3

Important Information

1. An optional McIntosh External Subwoofer Rotary Control,
Model Number R1163, is available from your McIntosh
Dealer.

2. Do not connect the Amplifier Speaker Negative Terminal
Connection directly to the Vehicle Chassis. Failure to observe
this could result in damage to your Amplifier.

3. For additional connection information, refer to the owner’s
manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the MCC406M
Amplifier.

4. There is a built-in turn on delay which will mute the speaker
outputs for approximately two seconds when the amplifier is
turned on.

5. It is very important that loudspeaker cables of adequate size
be used in your music system, to ensure that there will be no
power loss or heating. If your loudspeaker cables are 25 feet
(7.62m) or less, use at least 16 Gauge wire size or larger.

6. It is advisable to place an in­line fuse as close as possible
to the battery.

7. The MCC406M can accept
speaker level inputs at its
Input Jacks. Refer to the
diagram for connection.

(-) NEGATIVE SPEAKER OUTPUT

(+) POSITIVE SPEAKER OUTPUT

Introduction

Now you can take advantage of traditional McIntosh stan­dards of excellence in the MCC406M Power Amplifier.
The MCC406M has 400 watts of combined power output
with high current capability from six, five, four or three
channels and will drive any high quality Loudspeaker Sys­tem to its ultimate performance. The MCC406M reproduc­tion is sonically transparent and absolutely accurate. The
McIntosh Sound is “The Sound of the Music Itself.”

••

High Current Output

•

••

A peak output current of 20 amperes ensures that the
MCC406M will successfully drive high quality Loud­speakers, such as McIntosh, for a truly exciting sound ex­perience.

••

Variable Crossover Filters

•

••

The 12dB per octave high pass filters have variable corner
frequencies from 5Hz to 5,000Hz and 12dB per octave low
pass filters with variable corner frequencies from 50Hz to
5,000Hz.

••

•

Illuminated Watt Meters

••

The MCC406M has Output Watt Meters that display the
combined output in watts for all six channels. The meters
respond 95% full scale to a single cycle tone burst at 2kHz.
It is almost ten times faster than a professional VU meter.

••

• Power Guard and Sentry Monitor

••

All channels include the patented McIntosh Power Guard
circuit that prevents the amplifier from being overdriven
into clipping with its harsh distorted sound that can also
damage your valuable Loudspeakers. McIntosh Sentry
Monitor power output stage protection circuits are present
on all channels to ensure the MCC406M will have a long
and trouble free operating life.

••

• Speaker Protection

••

If for any reason, a DC (Direct Current) voltage appears at
the speaker output terminals, a built-in circuit turns off the
amplifier power supplies to prevent damage to your valu­able Loudspeakers.

Performance Features

••

• Power Output

••

The MCC406M consists of six separate power amplifier
channels, with four channels each capable of 50 watts and
two channels each capable of 100 watts with less than

0.005% distortion.

••

• Six Bridgeable Channels

••

The MCC406M includes four 50 watt amplifier channels.
Each pair of channels can be set in bridged configuration
for 200 watts output into a 4 ohm Loudspeaker. The two
100 watt channels may also be bridged for 400 watts out­put into a 4 ohm Loudspeaker.

4

••

• Thermal Protection with Multi-Speed Cooling Fans

••

Built-in thermal protection circuits guard against overheat­ing which could shorten the normal long life expectancy of
your McIntosh Power Amplifier. Cooling fan speed is con­trolled by temperature sensors attached to the interior of
the extruded aluminum cooling tunnel. The fans normally
run at a quiet low speed, when needed the fans will auto­matically switch to a higher speed for increased cooling.

••

• Subwoofer Output Remote Control

••

An optional Subwoofer Remote Control Accessory may be
connected to the MCC406M and allows varying the
Subwooofer output level.

Dimensions

The following dimensions can assist in determining the
best location for your MCC406M. There is additional in­formation on the next page pertaining to installing the
MCC406M into your vehicle.

Top View of the MCC406M

18-3/8"

46.66cm

15-3/16"

38.57cm

9-3/16"

23.33cm

3-3/16"

8.09cm

Dimensions

Side View of the MCC406M

11"

27.93cm

12-1/4"

31.12cm

11-13/16"

29.97cm

11/32"

10.93cm

2-15/16"

7.49cm

5

Installation

It is recommended that a professional who is skilled in all
aspects of installation and operation install the MCC406M
and any associated mobile audio equipment.

Installation

Warm Air

Amplifier Ventilation

Always provide adequate ventilation for the MCC406M.
The amplifier requires an adequate airflow into the cooling
fans, which are located on the left side of the amplifier. The
warm air exits the amplifier through vents on the heatsinks.
See figure 1. Be sure to provide at least 1-1/2 inches clear­ance in front of the cooling fans and 1 inch clearance at the
sides of the heatsinks.

The cooling fans are controlled by temperature sensors,
attached to the interior of the tunnel. The fans are normally
off. If the program material contains sustained loud pas­sages demanding high power, the fans will turn-on to in­crease cooling. If cooling is still not sufficient, additional
heating will shut down the amplifier internal power supply
completely and the Power Guard LEDs will light. The fans
will continue to run and once normal temperatures are re­stored, operation will resume.

The amplifier can be mounted vertically or horizontally
and may be located under a seat if adequate clearance is
available. The preferred installation method is to mount the
amplifier directly to the vehicle main frame using the hard­ware supplied with the amplifier.

It is not recommended that the amplifier be mounted
under the hood or in a location where it will be directly ex­posed to the elements. The openings in the fan housings
and heat tunnel vents can allow internal components to be
damaged by exposure to water, chemicals or any form of
road dust or debris.

Removing the Glass Panel

To access the MCC406M Controls, remove the glass panel
by removing the four hex bolts with the supplied 3/32” hex
key. See figure 2. Attach the supplied suction cup to the top
center of the glass panel and carefully raise it high enough
to put your hand under. Temporarily place the removed
glass panel in a safe place, remove the suction cup and
save it for future use.

Cool Air

Figure 1

Cool Air

Warm Air

Remove Top Cover Screws

Figure 2

Remove Top Cover Screws

Remove End Cap Screws

Figure 3

Removing the End Caps

To access the MCC406M Connecting Terminal Blocks, re­move the Glass Panel first (the above step) and then re­move the Phillips Screws holding the End Caps on both
sides of the amplifier and lift the end caps off. See figure 3.

6

Remove End Cap Screws

Side Panel Cooling and Connections

Cooling Fan
Air Intake

Connect to the Negative (-)
vehicle battery terminal

INPUTs for audio
cables from a signal
source

Connect to the positve (+)
vehicle battery terminal
with an inline fuse

Receives the Amplifier
Turn-ON signal from a
McIntosh Control Center

Cooling Fan
Air Intake

Connector for optional
Subwoofer Remote
Volume Control

OUTPUT Connections for 2, 4
or 8 ohm loudspeakers

OUTPUT Connections
for 2, 4 or 8 ohm loud­speakers

Controls the Power Guard
Circuit when connected to
certain McIntosh Control
Centers

7

How to Connect for Six Channels

1. Connect a cable from the Control Center Amp On to
the MCC406M ON Connector on the right side of the
amplifier.

Note: All cables should be connected to the amplifier

before connecting the DC power cables to the
battery.

2. Connect a cable from a McIntosh Control Center with
Power Guard to the MCC406M PG Connector on the
right side of the amplifier.

3. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from six separate
Loudspeaker Drivers to the MCC406M Power
Amplifier Channels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Terminals, being
careful to observe the correct polarities.

4. Connect a cable (up to 12 AWG) from the Subwoofer
Loudspeaker Driver to the McIntosh Mono Power Am­plifier Output Terminals, being careful to observe the

Left
Front
Output

Power
Guard

Amp
ON

correct polarities.

5. Connect audio cables from the Control Center Front
Outputs to the McIntosh Electronic Crossover Inputs 1
and 2.

6. Connect audio cables from the McIntosh Electronic
Crossover Low, Mid and High Outputs 1 and 2 to the
MCC406M Power Amplifier Inputs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

7. Connect an audio cable from the McIntosh Electronic
Crossover Sub Output to the McIntosh Mono Power
Amplifier Input.

8. Connect the MCC406M to the vehicle battery termi­nals using size 4 AWG (Maximum) cables.

Note: It is advisable to place an in-line fuse of a suitable

size as close as possible to the battery.

McIntosh Electronic Crossover

Right
Front
Output

Vehicle
Battery

+-

Fuse

8

McIntosh Mono Power Amplifier

How to Connect for Six Channels

(+)

Subwoofer

(-)

Right Front
Tweeter

Right Front

(-) (+) (-) (+)

Midrange

Right Front
Woofer

(-) (+)(-) (+)

Left Front
Tweeter

Left Front
Midrange

(-)(+)(-)(+)

Left Front
Woofer

9

How to Connect for Five Channels

How to Connect for Five Channels

1. Connect a cable from the Control Center Amp On to
the MCC406M ON Connector on the right side of the
amplifier.

Note: All cables should be connected to the amplifier

before connecting the DC power cables to the
battery.

2. Connect a cable from a McIntosh Control Center with
Power Guard to the MCC406M PG Connector on the
right side of the amplifier.

3. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from four separate
Loudspeaker Systems to the MCC406M Power Ampli­fier Channels 1, 2, 3, and 4 being careful to observe the
correct polarities.

4. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from the Subwoofer
Loudspeaker Drivers to the MCC406M Power Ampli-

Left Rear Output

Power Guard

Amp ON

fier Channels 5 and 6 BRIDGED connection being
careful to observe the correct polarities.

5. Connect audio cables from the McIntosh Control Cen­ter Front and Rear Outputs to the MCC406M Power
Amplifier Inputs 1, 2, 3, and 4.

6. Connect the optional McIntosh external Subwoofer Re­mote Volume Control to the SUB REMOTE CON­TROL Jack on the right side of the MCC406M Power
Amplifier.

7. Connect the MCC406M to the vehicle battery termi­nals using size 4 AWG (Maximum) cables.

Note: It is advisable to place an in-line fuse of a suitable

size as close as possible to the battery.

Right Rear Output

Left Front Loudspeaker System

Right Front Loudspeaker System

Left Rear Loudspeaker System

Right Rear Loudspeaker System

Left Front Output

Right Front Output

Vehicle
Battery

McIntosh External
Subwoofer Rotary Control

(+)

+-

Fuse

10

(-)

Subwoofer

How to Connect for Four Channels

How to Connect for Four Channels

1. Connect a cable from the Control Center Amp On to
the MCC406M ON Connector on the right side of the
amplifier.

Note: All cables should be connected to the amplifier

before connecting the DC power cables to the
battery.

2. Connect a cable from a McIntosh Control Center with
Power Guard to the MCC406M PG Connector on the
right side of the amplifier.

3. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from two separate
Loudspeaker Systems to the MCC406M Power Ampli­fier Channels 1 and 2 BRIDGED; 3, and 4 BRIDGED
connections being careful to observe the correct polari­ties.

4. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from the Subwoofer
Loudspeaker Drivers to the MCC406M Power Ampli-

Left Rear Output

(Subwoofer Level)

Right Rear Output

Power Guard

fier Channels 5 and 6 Outputs being careful to observe
the correct polarities.

5. Connect audio cables from the McIntosh Control Cen­ter Front and Rear Outputs to the MCC406M Power
Amplifier Inputs 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Note: The Subwoofer Output Level can be remotely

controlled by the optional McIntosh External
Subwoofer Rotary Control connected to the SUB
REMOTE CONTROL jack on the MCC406M.

6. Connect the MCC406M to the vehicle battery termi­nals using size 4 AWG (Maximum) cables.

Note: It is advisable to place an in-line fuse of a suitable

size as close as possible to the battery.

Optional connections for controlling
the Subwoofer Level by using the
Front to Rear Fader Control on the
Control Center

Subwoofer

(+)

Right
Loudspeaker
System

Left
Loudspeaker
System

Amp ON

Left Front Output

Right Front Output

-

Vehicle
Battery

Optional McIntosh
External Subwoofer
Rotary Control

(-)

(+)

+

Fuse

(-)

Subwoofer

11

How to Connect for Three Channels

1. Connect a cable from the Control Center Amp On to
the MCC406M ON Connector on the right side of the
amplifier.

Note: All cables should be connected to the amplifier

before connecting the DC power cables to the
battery.

2. Connect a cable from a McIntosh Control Center with
Power Guard to the MCC406M PG Connector on the
right side of the amplifier.

3. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from a Loudspeaker
System to the MCC406M Power Amplifier Channels 1
and 2 BRIDGED connections. In a similar manner con­nect another Loudspeaker system to the 3 and 4
BRIDGED connections, being careful to observe the
correct polarities for all connections.

4. Connect cables (up to 12 AWG) from the Subwoofer
Loudspeaker Drivers to the MCC406M Power Ampli­fier Channels 5 and 6 BRIDGED connection being
careful to observe the correct polarities.

5. Connect audio cables from the McIntosh Control Cen­ter Front Outputs to the McIntosh Custom Environ­mental Equalizer Inputs 1 and 2.

6. Connect audio cables from the McIntosh Custom Envi­ronmental Equalizer Outputs 1 and 2 to the MCC406M
Power Amplifier Inputs 1 and 3.

7. Connect the optional McIntosh external Subwoofer Re­mote Volume Control to the SUB REMOTE CON­TROL Jack on the MCC406M Power Amplifier.

8. Connect the MCC406M to the vehicle battery termi­nals using size 4 AWG (Maximum) cables.

Note: It is advisable to place an in-line fuse of a suitable

size as close as possible to the battery.

(+)

McIntosh Custom
Environmental
Equalizer

Right
Front
Output

Left
Front
Output

Power Guard

Amp ON

-

Vehicle
Battery

McIntosh External
Subwoofer Rotary
Control

+

Fuse

12

(-)

How to Connect for Three Channels

Left
Loudspeaker
System

Right
Loudspeaker
System

Subwoofer

13

Top Panel Controls, Display and Switches

CH 5-6 LOW PASS
Filter Switch and Con­trol select the high fre­quency roll-off or flat
frequency response

CH 5-6 MODE Switch
selects STEREO or
BRIDGED mode of
operation

POWER
GUARD LED
lights when the
Power Guard
Circuit acti­vates for Am­plifier Channels
1 thru 4

CH 5-6 HIGH PASS Filter
Switch and Control select
the low frequency roll-off
or flat frequency response

CH 5-6 SENSITIVITY
Individual Input Sensitiv­ity Controls for Channels
5 and 6

POWER GUARD LED
lights when the Power
Guard Circuit activates
for Amplifier Channels
5 or 6

INPUT
SOURCE
Switch for
Channels 5-6
selects either
CHs 5 and 6,
1 and 2 or
Subwoofer
(Sum of CHs
1, 2, 3, and 4)

METER
indicates
Channels
1 thru 4
Power
Output

CH 1-2 MODE
Switch selects
STEREO or
BRIDGED mode
of operation

CH 1-2 HIGH PASS Filter
Switch and Control select
the low frequency roll-off
or flat frequency response

CH 3-4 MODE
Switch selects
STEREO or
BRIDGED mode
of operation

CH 3-4 LOW PASS Filter
Switch and Control select
the high frequency roll-off
or flat frequency response

CH 3-4 HIGH PASS Filter
Switch and Control select
the low frequency roll-off
or flat frequency response

CH 1-4 SENSITIVITY
Individual Input Sensitivity
Controls for Channels 1, 2,
3 and 4

METER
indicates
Channels
5 and 6
Power
Output

INPUT SOURCE Switch
for Channels 3-4 selects
either CHs 3 and 4 or 1
and 2

14

Introduction

How to Operate the MCC406M

The McIntosh MCC406M is a highly versatile amplifier
that can be configured in many ways. This manual gives
examples of some of the most common configurations. The
best way to set the filter controls is through the use of a
real-time spectrum analyzer and the expertise of a profes­sional installer. This manual will guide you through the ba­sic operation, however we suggest you refer to your Dealer
for further information on the use of this unit. To access the
Amplifier Controls and Switches refer to “Removing the
Glass Panel” located on page 6 of this Owner’s Manual.

Low Pass Filter

The LOW PASS Filter Controls select the frequencies at
which the filters operate. Any given frequency number is
selected through the combined settings of the FRE­QUENCY and MULTIPLIER controls.
The low-pass filters multiplier switches
have settings of X1 (frequency times
one), X10 (frequency times ten). Refer
to figure 4.

Example: A frequency 1,500 Hz would be

attained by setting the
FREQUENCY Control to 150 and setting the
MULTIPLIER Switch to X10 (150 times 10 equals
1,500).

Figure 4

owner’s manual. The Level controls can
be set for any sensitivity from .5 volts to
8 volts. Refer to figure 6.

Note: When used in conjunction with a

McIntosh control center, you may
find setting the Sensitivity controls
to the center detent (1.5V) works best.

Figure 6

Power Output Meters

There are two illuminated watt meters on the glass panel,
the left meter displaying combined power output for chan­nels 1, 2, 3 and 4 and the right meter displaying combined
power output for channels 5 and 6. The upper scale shows
power in watts during normal operation, the lower scale
displays power in watts for bridged operation. All displays
show power into a 4 ohm load. The meters respond to all
the musical information being produced by the amplifier.

High Pass Filter

The HIGH PASS Filter Controls select the center frequen­cies at which the filters operate. Any given frequency num­ber is selected through the combined settings of the FRE­QUENCY and MULTIPLIER controls.
The high-pass filter multiplier switches
have settings of X.1 (frequency times
one-tenth), X1 (frequency times one),
X10 (frequency times ten). Refer to fig­ure 5.

Example: A frequency of 15 Hz would be

selected by setting the FREQUENCY Control to 150
and the MULTIPLIER Switch to X.1 (150 times .1
equals 15).

Figure 5

Input Sensitivity Controls

The SENSITIVITY controls allow independent setting of
the input sensitivity of all amplifier channels, to provide an
ideal match for the signal source being used. The most de­sirable setting allows the control center to have a useful
volume range as wide as possible from loud to soft. A good
place to start is to set the amplifier’s SENSITIVITY Con­trol to the output voltage called out in your control center

Figure 7

They indicate to an accuracy of at least 95% of the power
output with only a single cycle of a 2000Hz tone burst. Re­fer to figure 7.

Power

The MCC406M will turn on or off when the Control Cen­ter turns On or Off.

Note: There must be an Amp ON connection between the

MCC406M and the signal source unit in order for the
amplifier power turn On and Off to function.

15

How to Operate in Six or Five Channel Mode

How to Operate in Six Channel Mode How to Operate in Five Channel Mode

In the 6 Channel Operating Mode, channels 1 thru 4 oper­ate as independent 50 watt amplifiers; channels 5 and 6
each provide 100 watts of power output. A typical six chan­nel application is to use an Electronic Crossover Network
ahead of the MCC406M Power Amplifier and each ampli­fier channel powers Loudspeaker Drivers directly. A sec­ond power amplifier is used to drive the Subwoofer. Refer
to figures 8 and 9, along with pages 8 and 9 of this
Owner’s Manual.

Input Source

Set the Channel 3-4 INPUT SOURCE Switch to 3, 4 and
the Channel 5-6 INPUT SOURCE Switch to the 5-6 posi­tion for 6 Channel Mode.

Sensitivity Controls

The Sensitivity Controls allow setting of the input level of
all six amplifier channels to provide an ideal match for the
signal source being used.

Output Mode

Set all three OUTPUT MODE Switches to the STEREO
position to configure the amplifier for six channel opera­tion.

High Pass Filter

Set each of the High Pass Filter Frequency Controls to 50
and the MULTIPLIER Switches to X.1. This will pass the
full audible spectrum, yet filter out power-robbing sub­sonics below 5 Hz.

Low Pass Filter

Set each of the Low Pass Filter Switches to the OUT posi­tion.

In the 5 Channel Operating Mode, channels 1 thru 4 oper­ate as independent 50 watt amplifiers for the front and rear
Loudspeakers; channels 5 and 6 are Bridged for 400 watts
of power output. Refer to figures 8 and 9, along with page
10 of this Owner’s Manual.

Input Source

Set the Channel 3-4 INPUT SOURCE Switch to 3, 4 and
the Channel 5-6 INPUT SOURCE Switch to the 1-4 (SUB)
position for 5 Channel Mode.

Sensitivity Controls

The Sensitivity Controls allow setting of the input level of
all five amplifier channels to provide an ideal match for the
signal source being used.

Note: Set CH6 SENSITIVITY Control to the maximum

counterclockwise position.

Output Mode

Set CHANNELS 1-2 and 3-4 OUTPUT MODE Switches
to the STEREO position. Set the CHANNELS 5-6 OUT­PUT MODE Switch to the BRIDGED position. This will
configure the amplifier for five channel operation.

High Pass Filter

Set the Channels 1-2 and 3-4 High Pass Filters’ FRE­QUENCY Control to 100 and the MULTIPLIER Switch to
X1. Set the channel 5-6 High Pass Filter Frequency Control
to 50 and the MULTIPLIER Switch to X.1. This will send
frequencies above 100Hz to the upper range speakers for
channels 1 thru 4 and roll-off frequencies below 5Hz for
channels 5-6.

Low Pass Filter

Set the Channel 3-4 low pass filter to OUT. Set the Chan­nel 5-6 Low Pass Filter FREQUENCY Control to 100 and
the MULTIPLIER Switch to X1. This will roll-off frequen­cies above 100Hz for channels 5-6.

16

Figure 8

How to Operate in Four or Three Channel Mode

How to Operate in Four Channel Mode How to Operate in Three Channel Mode

In the 4 Channel Operating Mode channel pairs of (1 and

2) and (3 and 4) are bridged to provide 200 watts each.
Channels 5 and 6 are driven independently for 100 watts
output for each channel. Refer to figures 8 and 9, along
with page 11 of this Owner’s Manual.

Input Source

Set the Channel 3-4 INPUT SOURCE Switch to the 3, 4
and the Channel 5-6 INPUT SOURCE Switch to the 5, 6
position for 4 Channel Mode.

Sensitivity Controls

The Sensitivity Controls (1, 3, 5 and 6) allow setting the
input level of the amplifier channels to provide an ideal
match for the signal source being used.

Note: Set CH2 and CH4 SENSITIVITY Controls to the

maximum counterclockwise position.

Output Mode

Set CHANNELS 1-2 and 3-4 OUTPUT MODE Switches
to the BRIDGED position. Set CHANNELS 5-6 OUTPUT
MODE Switch to the STEREO position. This will config­ure the amplifier for four channel operation.

High Pass Filter

Set the Channels 1-2 and 3-4 High Pass Filters’ FRE­QUENCY Control to 100 and the MULTIPLIER Switch to
X1. Set the channel 5-6 High Pass Filter Frequency Control
to 50 and the MULTIPLIER Switch to X.1. This will send
frequencies above 100Hz to the upper range speakers for
channels 1 thru 4 and roll-off frequencies below 5Hz for
channels 5-6.

Low Pass Filter

Set the Channel 3-4 low pass filter to OUT. Set the Chan­nel 5-6 Low Pass Filter FREQUENCY Control to 100 and
the MULTIPLIER Switch to X1. This will roll-off frequen­cies above 100Hz for channels 5-6.

In the 3 Channel Operating Mode channel pairs of (1 and

2), (3 and 4) and (5-6) are bridged. This configuration pro­vides two 200 watt channel amplifiers and one 400 watt
amplifier. Refer to figures 8 and 9, along with pages 12 and
13 of this Owner’s Manual.

Input Source

Set the Channel 3-4 INPUT SOURCE Switch to the 3, 4
and the Channel 5-6 INPUT SOURCE Switch to the 1-4
(SUB) position.

Sensitivity Controls

The Sensitivity Controls allow setting the input level of
amplifier channels 1 and 3 to provide an ideal match for
the signal source being used. Sensitivity Control 5 adjusts
the woofer level balance.

Note: Set CH2, CH4 and CH6 SENSITIVITY Controls to the

maximum counterclockwise position.

Output Mode

Set all three OUTPUT MODE Switches to the BRIDGED
position.

High Pass Filter

Set the Channels 1-2 and 3-4 High Pass Filters’ FRE­QUENCY Control to 100 and the MULTIPLIER Switch to
X1. Set the channel 5-6 High Pass Filter Frequency Control
to 50 and the MULTIPLIER Switch to X.1. This will send
frequencies above 100Hz to the upper range speakers for
channels 1 thru 4 and roll-off frequencies below 5Hz for
channels 5-6.

Low Pass Filter

Set the Channel 3-4 low pass filter to OUT. Set the Chan­nel 5-6 Low Pass Filter FREQUENCY Control to 100 and
the MULTIPLIER Switch to X1. This will roll-off frequen­cies above 100Hz for channels 5-6.

Figure 9

17

How to Replace the Fuses

How to Replace the Fuses

If the MCC406M produces no sound, there is no
Illumination of the Nomenclature on the Top Glass Panel,
and the power connections seem secure, one or more of the
Amplifier Fuse(s) may have failed. Under normal operating
conditions your amplifier’s fuses should not fail. Failure of
a fuse is usually an indication of a problem. Replacing the
fuse, if there is problem in the amplifier, may incur a risk
of further damage. Refer to figures 10, 11 and 12.

Caution: Disconnect the Amplifier from the Vehicle Battery

( or DC Power Supply) as Potentially Dangerous
Currents exist inside the amplifier.

1. Before accessing fuses, disconnect both the
positive and negative power cables from the DC
input terminals on the left side of the amplifier
using a 5/32” hex key.

2. Remove the Top Glass Panel by first removing the
four hex bolts with the supplied 3/32” hex key.

3. To remove the Top Glass Panel, attach the supplied
suction cup to the top center of the glass panel and
carefully raise it high enough to put your hand
under. Temporarily place the removed glass panel
in a safe place, remove the suction cup and save it
for future use.

4. Remove the Phillips Screws holding the End Caps
on both sides of the amplifier and lift the end caps
off.

5. Remove the two Phillips screws located between
the low and high pass filter controls.

6. Remove all 12 crossover, equalizer and sensitivity
knobs.

7. Remove the Gold Faceplate Control Panel.

8. Remove the fuses with needle nose pliers, taking
care to avoid hitting the wattmeter during removal.
Do not lever the pliers against the wattmeter.

Note: To determine if the fuse has failed, examine the

link between the two fuse legs to see if it has a
break in it.

9. Replace the fuse with one of the same type and
rating as unauthorized substitutions may prove
hazardous to you and the amplifier.

10. When reinserting the fuse, set it in place with the
pliers, then push it the rest of the way in with your
finger to avoid having the pliers slip and hit the
circuit board.

11. Re-install the Gold Faceplate Control Panel and all
12 crossover, equalizer and sensitivity knobs.

12. Re-connect the power cables to the vehicle battery.

If the replacement fuse(s) fails again, have the amplifier
repaired at a McIntosh Service Center.

Remove Top Cover Screws

Figure 10

Remove Top Cover Screws

Remove Three Screws

Figure 11

Remove Three Screws

Location of the four fuses

Figure 12

18

MCC406M Block Diagram

MCC406M Block Diagram

19

20

Notes

21

Specifications

Specifications

Power Output Per Channel

Channels 1 thru 4:
50 watts into 4 ohm loads or 100 watts into 2 ohm loads, is
the minimum sine wave continuous average power output
per channel all channels operating.

Channels 5 and 6:
100 watts into 4 ohm loads or 200 watts into 2 ohm loads,
is the minimum sine wave continuous average power out­put per channel all channels operating.

Power Output Bridged

Channels (1 and 2) or (3 and 4):
200 watts into 4 ohm loads, is the minimum sine wave con­tinuous average power output with all channels operating.

Channels (5 and 6):
400 watts into 4 ohm loads is the minimum sine wave con­tinuous average power output with all channels operating.

Rated Power Band

20Hz to 20,000Hz

Total Harmonic Distortion

Maximum Total Harmonic Distortion at any power
level from 250 milliwatts to rated power output is:

0.005% for 4 ohm loads

0.01% for 2 ohm loads

0.01% for Bridged Mode with 4 ohm loads

Subwoofer Filter

Low Pass filtered at 200 Hz with a 6dB per octave slope
(level variable ±12dB when using optional McIntosh Ex­ternal Subwoofer Rotary Control).

Intermodulation Distortion

Maximum Intermodulation Distortion if instanta­neous peak output per channel does not exceed
twice the rated output, for any combination of fre­quencies from 20Hz to 20,000Hz, with all channels
operating is:

0.005% for 4 ohm loads

0.01% for 2 ohm loads

0.01% for Bridged Mode with 4 ohm loads

Input Impedance

12,000 ohms

Power Requirements

12 Volts DC, 4.5 amps (idle) - 75 amps (4 ohm loads)

Dimensions

12-1/2 inches (31.1 cm) wide, 3 inches (7.6 cm)
high, 18-2/5 inches (46.7cm) depth

Weight

20.5 pounds (9.3 Kg) net, 23.5 pounds (10.6 Kg) in
shipping carton

Dynamic Headroom

1dB

Frequency Response

+0, -0.25dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz
+0, -3dB from 10Hz to 50,000Hz

Sensitivity

0.5Volts

A-Weighted Signal To Noise Ratio

105dB (1.5V)

High Pass Filter

Variable from 5Hz to 5,000Hz, 12 dB per octave

Low Pass Filter

Variable from 50Hz to 5,000Hz, 12 dB per octave (24 dB
per octave in Bridged Mode for Channels 5 and 6)

22

Packing Instructions

Packing Instructions

In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for
shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown
below, failure to do so will result in shipping damage.
Make sure that the Top Glass Panel is firmly secured to the
chassis using the supplied hex head screws.

Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only
if they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping
carton 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.

Quantity Part Number Description

1 033775 Shipping carton only
2 034132 End cap (Foam pad)

23

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. 040842