McIntosh MC402


Hi,
    The dealer I go to mentioned that lot of people love the McIntosh MC 402 over 452. I found a McIntosh MC402 which is 10 years old and it is very good condition. I liked the sound. I did not audition 452 yet.  The question is, Is McIntosh MC402 is really better than MC452 and what is the best price I can pay for a 10 year old AMP? Please advice. 

Ravi
karurravi
I didn’t care for the MC402 at all when I auditioned one 6 years ago. Speakers were B&W 802 and the pre was a MX120. The MC302 sounded more natural to me. I’ve since auditioned a MC452 with B&W 804 and a C52. I thought that combo fared better.

You’ll have to decide for yourself, but I strongly suggest you take the time to audition both in an environment similar to what you plan on using. Good luck and happy listening!
I owned the 402 several years ago. It's the only piece of McIntosh gear I ever owned. After owning some nice amps before the Mac, I felt the Mac was soft and bloated in the low end. It lacked punch and slam. I picked up a Pass X250.5 after that, and it was like night and day. The Pass kicked the Mac right out the door. I now use Class D amps, and don't miss the hot, heavy, power hungry beast amps at all.  
Ravi, Mac amps are built to last and have best in class customer service.  As far as what a 402 is worth that is for you to determine - what are willing to pay.

I have owned 501 mono's for close to 10 years, fortunately, my experience is nothing like spenceroo's.