McIntosh MA-230

I purchased this amplifier in May 2012 from Tom Manley at McIntoshAudio.com. The 230 is a tube amplifier integrated with a solid state preamp with 30 WPC output, equipped with four electro-harmonix 7591AEH output tubes, two Telefunken 12AU7 tubes, and one Telefunken 12AX7 tube. 

My setup with the 230 is a Linn Sondek LP12 turntable with either Paradigm bookshelf or Zu Omen Dirty Weekend speakers located in the middle of a way less than ideal listening room measuring 20’ x 12’. The amplifier was able to provide plenty of power drive my system, the sound is nice and warm with any genre of music. When I purchased the amplifier, the cosmetic condition excellent rated near mint on the McIntoshAudio website. This remains the case, my house is smoke-free and pet free. The lettering for the On/Off rocker switch is worn, but all the other lettering on the front panel are fine. Some of the letterings on the back panel are worn but easily identifiable. There is hardly any noticeable pitting on the chrome and a very faint surface scratch above the ground binding post. The front, sides, top, and bottom are all in excellent condition. When I purchased the amplifier, the glass front plate model number was for an MA 5100. Tom Manley explained to me the original 230 glass was broken, but the 5100 glass was original and the exact dimensions of the 230. I’ve extensively searched for an original 230 plate without success. I’ve rated the condition of the amplifier, Very Good, by AudiogoN’s guidelines. I believe the condition is closer to Excellent, however, the amplifier was manufactured between 1963-1966.

McIntoshAudio has a business relationship with Terry DeWick of Dewick Repairs. I suspect most McIntosh aficionados know who Terry DeWick is, for others, Terry is well known for his expertise with repairs and upgrades all things McIntosh. In June of this year, the amplifier was producing a hum. I drove to Knoxville, where DeWick Repairs is located, and Terry replaced a capacitor that resolved the problem. I told Terry I intended to sell the amplifier and would he give the amp a thorough check. Terry did this and told me the amplifier was in excellent condition and rated the amplifier near mint. 

My reason for selling the amplifier is I wanted to move to a full tube amplifier as well as upgrade my speakers. I have not sold any equipment of AudiogoN so consequently no feedback. I did purchase an album so there is feedback for that. I sold an amplifier on US Audio Mart and have one positive feedback there. This probably doesn’t weigh-lay any skepticism for a first-time seller here, but I’ll gladly to talk on the phone for any questions about the amplifier or me.

I have the original manual, but I do not have the original box. I’ll also provide the invoice from McIntoshAudio. The amplifier will be shipped double boxed with the outer box reinforced with 1/4” plywood. I expect the total weight of the box to be in the neighborhood of 60lbs and the box measuring 25x24x13, buyer pays shipping cost. I live in Asheville, NC and I will drive 100 miles to meet in lieu of shipping. I only accept PayPal and will ship to CONUS only. If I’m lucky to find a local buyer, I’ll accept cash only for that transaction.

I’ll finish up this rather long, possibly long-winded ad, this really is a nice amplifier. I’ll add like many do, I’ll probably regret selling it. However, I’m anxious to make a sell and add funds to secure my acquisition of speakers. Please feel free to call and ask as many questions as you like. I’m not one that knows about technical aspects of stereo, I prefer to sit back and listen. I will find out answers to any questions. I know Tom and Terry well enough to call and find answers if needed.

Thanks, Skip

The link below is Roger Russell’s website with information on the original specifications of the 230.

http://www.roger-russell.com/amppre.htm#ma230