MCA-50 vs Emotiva XPA-3 Gen3
The XPA-3 Gen3's power @ 8ω is 300W against the MCA-50's 180W, its signal-to-noise 117 dB against 122 dB, its thd 0.005% against 0.002%, and its damping factor >500 against >100.
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The Anthem MCA-50 is a 5-channel power amplifier known for its robust build and high-quality sound reproduction. It delivers 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms with very low distortion and a wide frequency response, making it suitable for demanding multi-channel surround sound setups. The amplifier features both single-ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs, a high damping factor of 130, and a signal-to-noise ratio of 122 dB, ensuring clean and precise audio output. It includes multiple power switch modes (manual, trigger, and auto-on/off) and uses custom oversized binding posts for reliable speaker connections. The MCA-50 is built with a large custom chassis and heatsinks for efficient heat dissipation and reliability. It weighs approximately 27.6 kg (61 lbs) and measures 17-1/4" wide x 7" high x 17-1/2" deep. The amplifier is designed and built in North America with high-quality components such as toroidal transformers and bipolar output transistors. It is capable of reproducing complex dynamics and multi-channel audio with clarity and power, making it a favored choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Estimated price (community-sourced)
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Components that show up alongside the MCA-50 in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The XPA-3 Gen3's power @ 8ω is 300W against the MCA-50's 180W, its signal-to-noise 117 dB against 122 dB, its thd 0.005% against 0.002%, and its damping factor >500 against >100.
The MCA-30's signal-to-noise is 120 dB against the MCA-50's 122 dB and its thd 1.000% against 0.002%. Both share power @ 8ω (180W) and damping factor (>100).
The HCA-1205A's power @ 8ω is 140W against the MCA-50's 180W, its signal-to-noise 117 dB against 122 dB, its thd 0.030% against 0.002%, and its damping factor >800 against >100.
The MCA-5's power @ 8ω is 170W against the MCA-50's 180W and its thd 1.000% against 0.002%. Both share signal-to-noise (122 dB) and damping factor (>100).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
Marantz MM7055
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