United States

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc., often referred to simply as McIntosh, is an esteemed American brand renowned for its high-quality audio equipment. Founded in 1949 in Binghamton, New York, McIntosh has established itself as a pioneer in the high-fidelity audio industry. The brand is synonymous with enduring build quality, aesthetic elegance, and unparalleled sound performance, making it a choice of audiophiles and music enthusiasts worldwide.

Known for its distinctive design, McIntosh products feature signature black glass front panels, aluminum end caps, and the iconic "McIntosh Blue" watt meters, which have become a symbol of audio excellence. Their product range encompasses a wide array of audio equipment, including amplifiers, preamplifiers, speakers, turntables, and other audio accessories, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail and acoustic perfection.

McIntosh's dedication to producing high-quality sound reproduction is evident in their use of advanced technologies and precision engineering. Their products are often the result of extensive research and development, ensuring that they not only meet but exceed industry standards.

In addition to sound quality, McIntosh is committed to the longevity and durability of its products. Many McIntosh units from decades past are still in use today, a testament to their build quality and the company's commitment to sustainability through longevity.

Whether for home audio systems, professional studios, or luxury car audio, McIntosh provides an audio experience that is both immersive and emotionally engaging, offering a level of performance that is as close to the original recording as possible. Their legacy and ongoing innovation continue to set the standard in high-end audio, making McIntosh a prestigious and revered name in the world of hi-fi audio systems.

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McIntosh

The McIntosh C11 is a vintage 2-channel vacuum tube preamplifier produced between 1961 and 1963. It is recognized for its all-tube design, utilizing a selection of high-quality Telefunken ribbed plate 12AX7 tubes for optimal audio performance. The preamp underwent a full electrical restoration which included a rebuild of the power supply and replacement of out-of-spec coupling capacitors, ensuring its operational integrity. This model features a classic aesthetic with an aluminum front panel and glass faceplate, maintaining a physical condition that reflects careful ownership over the years. It is equipped with multiple inputs, tone controls, and a loudness function. The unit typically exhibits slight imbalances in volume controls which can be compensated to achieve a balanced audio output. The recommended cables for connecting this preamp include various options from Kimber Kable, particularly for RCA interconnects and phono applications. Despite being a vintage unit, it maintains a working condition rated at 10 out of 10, reflecting its reliability and performance after restoration.

C11

by McIntosh

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