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SPEAKER CABLES
Use high quality cables, since this is an important link in your stereo system.
Selection of the proper size and type of speaker cable is necessary for you to receive
the best possible performance from your amplifier and loudspeaker combination. The
high power output capability of the MC500 requires heavy gauge cable to handle the
current requirements. A size of 14 gauge or heavier is recommended. Your Mclntosh
dealer can advise you on the type of cable that will work best in your installation.
STEREO OUTPUTS
The MC500 incorporates the legendary Mclntosh designed and manufactured
Output Autoformers, to ensure peak performance, speaker protection and outstanding
amplifier-loudspeaker compatibility The MC500 Autoformer used on each channel has
three different output impedance connections for optimum matching to the particular
loudspeakers, or combination of loudspeakers being used. The following table will help
determine which impedance connection will be best for your loudspeakers. You may
find it desirable to consult your Mclntosh dealer or the manufacturer of your loudspeaker
for further information on the correct impedance to use.
HOW
TO
CONNECT
OUTPUTS
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE
IN OHMS
2 to 4 ohms
4 to 8 ohms
8 ohms and up
MC500 AMPLIFIER OUTPUT
TERMINAL CONNECTIONS
COM and 2 (L and R)
COM and 4 (L and R)
COM and 8 (L and R)
Connect cables from each loudspeaker Common or Minus terminal to the MC500.
COM (Common) POWER OUTPUT terminals. Connect cables from each loudspeaker
Hot or Plus terminal to the desired MC500 2, 4, or 8 (L and R) STEREO POWER
OUTPUT terminals
Most loudspeakers have their input terminals both marked and color coded. Usually
the Common or (-) terminal is BLACK: and the Hot or (+) terminal is RED.
The MC500 Output signals are IN PHASE with the Input signals.
The actual load impedance of some loudspeakers may drop below the specified
impedance at some points in the audio frequency range. This will be no problem. The
high current output of the MC500 will produce the extra current necessary to properly
drive the loudspeaker under these conditions.
If the impedance of a loudspeaker system is higher than 8 ohms, no change in the
quality of performance will occur. The available power output directed to the
loudspeakers will simply be slightly less.
BRIDGED (MONO) OUTPUT
In BRIDGED Mono configuration the outputs of the two channels of the MC500
will combine to produce 1000 watts. All performance specifications for the stereo
configuration will be exactly the same in BRIDGED Mono configuration, but with
double the power. In BRIDGED Mono Configuration, only the BRIDGED Output
terminals marked +4, +8, +16, -4, -8, and -16 are used. The COM (Common)
terminals are not used.
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CONNECTING DIAGRAM
BRIDGED (MONO)
CONNECTING
DIAGRAMS
CONTROL CENTER
WITH BALANCED OUTPUT
POWER
CONTROL
POWER CONTROL OUT
TO POWER CONTROL IN
TO DEDICATED
15 AMPERE
OUTLET
SET MODE SWITCH
TO BRIDGED
8 OHM
LOUDSPEAKER
BALANCED OUTPUT
FROM PREAMPLIFIER
TO R/BALANCED
MC500 INPUT
TO DEDICATED
15 AMPERE
OUTLET
SET MODE SWITCH
TO BRIDGED
8 OHM
LOUDSPEAKER
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