The new Mcintosh MC 402

Abball,
I noticed this effect with my McIntosh amp as well. But what is the sense, in a stereophonic recording, to record the left side stronger? Did your friend tell you that?

Regarding the meters: try a mono source like a record or FM station or maybe your pre has a mono button, put your meter switch on hold and turn the volume to different positions and note the meter readings.

Hassel: I think it is like the different-focus effect found with 3D glasses - just applied to your ears instead.

BTW, I hear this same thing on other amps besides McIntoshes. Mcs have meters so you can see it as well as hear it for solid confirmation. Some recordings make it very noticible - especially late 70s ones - where even unrelieving amps make it audible.

According to McIntosh, the two amps sound the same. The 402 has a little more power and the new cosmetics. It's circuit design has also been upgraded, but the differences are small.

If it were me, I would keep the MC 352. But since I don't own a Mac yet, I will be buying the MC402 because I like the new cosmetics and the slightly higher power rating. (My other amp choice is the Classe Audio CA 301). Once I buy the Mac, I will not be upgrading.

Im glad I`m not the only one to have uneven meters on the 352. Its good to know it can be corected, it is ever soooooo
slight it does not seem to affect the output I beleive that is correct because when I change r/l balance levels so they match I notice one side is a little louder so it must be the calibration of the meters. As far as the 402, if you already have a 352 I don`t beleive 50 more watts would give you the satisfaction the power hungry B&W`s need. Think of the 602 or perhaps 1201`s. David