[axsnyder]

I was using the Jotunheim-A (the one for Audeze LCD-R) and found it limited the volume on the MHA200. I didn’t like it and quickly undid that chain. I can try it again for a more detailed response.

 

[Crowbar44]

Found it interesting that we are using almost an identical signal path (Bifrost 2--MHA200--LC2F) and have the same issue with the volume control.

I'm considering the Schiit Jotunheim 2 as my preamp. Same size as the Bifrost so no real difference on desk space used. Adds the ability to use a solid state amp if I ever felt the need. Not sure why I'd want to with the MHA200. Also only $399 if you don't get module.

Intriguing idea using the Jot 2 pre-outs. You could save even more money and use an Asgard 3 - but then you're stuck with a single ended signal path. However, my suspicion is that the pre-amp stage of the Jot/Asgard is probably similar to the Schiit Sys, which is definitely the cheapest route...albeit single ended.

For me, adding another active component to the signal path just to fix a poorly designed volume pot doesn't make sense. I'm happy with this bluetooth knob...

 

[ttocs]

I considered adding a passive level control, but at the price point to fix the volume issues I'm having without much additional functionality, the Jot looked more attractive.

This is the balanced VC I was considering.

https://goldpt.com/sa2x.html

 

[TSAVJason]

I considered adding a passive level control, but at the price point to fix the volume issues I'm having without much additional functionality, the Jot looked more attractive.

This is the balanced VC I was considering.

https://goldpt.com/sa2x.html

Just curious but what are the “issues” you are having?

 

[ttocs]

The issue is the very limited movement in the volume control between inaudible and dangerous levels.

I do not have the issues some are having with a loose knob. I wouldn't say it's a premium feel but since I can not turn it more then 12:30 and 1:00 (more like 12:30 and 12:45) that hasn't bothered me.

I feel that this is a very common complaint about the MHA-200.

Other then that I am a huge fan of the amp.

 

[Crowbar44]

The issue is the very limited movement in the volume control between inaudible and dangerous levels.

I do not have the issues some are having with a loose knob. I wouldn't say it's a premium feel but since I can not turn it more then 12:30 and 1:00 (more like 12:30 and 12:45) that hasn't bothered me.

I feel that this is a very common complaint about the MHA-200.

Other then that I am a huge fan of the amp.

Same issue for me....

 

[meomap]

Why can't McIntosh fix this dam issue?

 

[Deleeh]

I'm surprised at the price of a device like this, regardless of the name.
It seems to be due to the amplifier power, which was pushed to the limit.

I know this much more with volume controls that have a step function, which I find so impractical, especially when the Db setting is set high per detent point.

I don't think a pot exchange makes sense as long as there is no revision or another manufacturer is used.

A spontaneous alternative would be a Dac with variable volume control.
That would certainly be more convenient.

 

[u2u2]

Why can't McIntosh fix this dam issue?

Self evident. They know what you want but you haven’t figured that out yet… Same for me and a few others on the forum.

I did three trips to my dealer in the last 10 days or so and it ended with me there for a couple of hours yesterday.
Volume problem fixed.
My MHA200 now sings like no other, the volume is silky smooth (its from Naim), and the amp is almost a pleasure to use.
The right channel drops out from time to time. Have changed every interconnect, headphones, cables etc etc. All done except another set of tubes and the amp itself.
Wondering if it is that wonky volume knob or is there a relay in the amp that is kaput… Praying for a hard failure.
It really is a very nice amp but my copy isn’t meeting the test of being a user. It passes as a high maintenance looker.
I like tube amps and I like them located where I can look at them as I use them. The MHA200 looks great to my eye yet it now sits out of my field of view.
Front and center is a Naim Uniti Atom Headphone Edition amp and Uniti Core Server. They feed the 200 for now, in balanced mode, but their tentacles have reached out to a workhorse WA22 as well.
McIntosh get your act together, you aren’t the only game in town. The MHA200 could be an entry point for new customers, as it was for me. My experience has steered me to your competition even though I had much bigger McIntosh plans… A fumble when a touchdown was in easy reach.

 

[TSAVJason]

Self evident. They know what you want but you haven’t figured that out yet… Same for me and a few others on the forum.

I did three trips to my dealer in the last 10 days or so and it ended with me there for a couple of hours yesterday.
Volume problem fixed.
My MHA200 now sings like no other, the volume is silky smooth (its from Naim), and the amp is almost a pleasure to use.
The right channel drops out from time to time. Have changed every interconnect, headphones, cables etc etc. All done except another set of tubes and the amp itself.
Wondering if it is that wonky volume knob or is there a relay in the amp that is kaput… Praying for a hard failure.
It really is a very nice amp but my copy isn’t meeting the test of being a user. It passes as a high maintenance looker.
I like tube amps and I like them located where I can look at them as I use them. The MHA200 looks great to my eye yet it now sits out of my field of view.
Front and center is a Naim Uniti Atom Headphone Edition amp and Uniti Core Server. They feed the 200 for now, in balanced mode, but their tentacles have reached out to a workhorse WA22 as well.
McIntosh get your act together, you aren’t the only game in town. The MHA200 could be an entry point for new customers, as it was for me. My experience has steered me to your competition even though I had much bigger McIntosh plans… A fumble when a touchdown was in easy reach.

it’s not a traditional VC. It should be viewed more like a gain control. It has a 1-1 detent for use as a straight amp.

happy to hear you got yours sorted out.
FYI, the 1st part of your post almost caused me to blow coffee out my nose

 

[ThanatosVI]

Self evident. They know what you want but you haven’t figured that out yet… Same for me and a few others on the forum.

I did three trips to my dealer in the last 10 days or so and it ended with me there for a couple of hours yesterday.
Volume problem fixed.
My MHA200 now sings like no other, the volume is silky smooth (its from Naim), and the amp is almost a pleasure to use.
The right channel drops out from time to time. Have changed every interconnect, headphones, cables etc etc. All done except another set of tubes and the amp itself.
Wondering if it is that wonky volume knob or is there a relay in the amp that is kaput… Praying for a hard failure.
It really is a very nice amp but my copy isn’t meeting the test of being a user. It passes as a high maintenance looker.
I like tube amps and I like them located where I can look at them as I use them. The MHA200 looks great to my eye yet it now sits out of my field of view.
Front and center is a Naim Uniti Atom Headphone Edition amp and Uniti Core Server. They feed the 200 for now, in balanced mode, but their tentacles have reached out to a workhorse WA22 as well.
McIntosh get your act together, you aren’t the only game in town. The MHA200 could be an entry point for new customers, as it was for me. My experience has steered me to your competition even though I had much bigger McIntosh plans… A fumble when a touchdown was in easy reach.

High hopes for the MHA300...
Maybe they should sell a preamp EQ combo with fitting form factor for the MHA200.

 

[Nostoi]

Just curious but what are the “issues” you are having?

I thought the "issue" was fairly well known by far....

 

[u2u2]

it’s not a traditional VC. It should be viewed more like a gain control. It has a 1-1 detent for use as a straight amp.

happy to hear you got yours sorted out.
FYI, the 1st part of your post almost caused me to blow coffee out my nose

Spot on with your comment. Using it as a straight amp is the route to nirvana with this beast.
Glad you didn't waste any good beans. Bad for the sinuses as well...

 

[TSAVJason]

Spot on with your comment. Using it as a straight amp is the route to nirvana with this beast.
Glad you didn't waste any good beans. Bad for the sinuses as well...

I try not to waste any beans

 

[ABQ2]

After ordering it in June it's finally due to arrive next week. I'll source it from a McIntosh MP100 phono stage thru balanced cables so here's hoping the volume works. It's Mac-Mac so I expect it to.