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 C28 is a solid-state preamplifier that was manufactured between 1970 and 1978, with approximately 22,000 units produced. Its design is celebrated for its black and glass façade, featuring green back-lit control stenciling that has influenced audio design for decades. The C28 has been a popular choice for pairing with both solid-state amplifiers like the MC2505 and MC2105, as well as tube amplifiers such as the MC225 and MC240. It is equipped with several input options including two phono inputs, a tape head input, a microphone input, as well as high-level inputs for aux, tuner, and dual tape sources. The preamp also features a dedicated 20W headphone amplifier, multiple line and tape output options, and functionality for controlling two sets of speakers via the SCR-2 controller. The unit is designed for optimal usability with its top-mounted controls, making adjustments straightforward. Its craftsmanship and industrial design are considered exemplary in vintage audio components, often leading to admiration from both users and onlookers. Listening tests reveal its ability to convey complex soundscapes across various genres, cementing the C28's place as a historical piece with notable musicality and technical versatility. Its performance is characterized by defined spatial imaging and rich tonal qualities, making it suitable for music lovers seeking a vintage audio experience.

C28

by McIntosh

Living room system

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