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 C1100 is a high-performance vacuum tube preamplifier that combines classic build quality with modern technology. Featuring a dual-chassis design, the C1100 provides enhanced performance by separating power supply from the audio circuits. The preamplifier is equipped with premium components such as custom-wound transformers and discrete component designs, ensuring superior sound reproduction. It offers multiple inputs, including balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections, catering to a variety of source devices. The unit features a robust headphone amplifier and provides options for both analog and digital audio processing. With a rich and warm sound signature, the McIntosh C1100 is designed to deliver immersive audio experiences for music enthusiasts. The unit is equipped with a large, easy-to-read display and allows users to manage settings through a remote control or front panel interface. MCIntosh's iconic blue meters provide aesthetic appeal while also indicating signal levels. Overall, the C1100 stands out for its blend of vintage design elements and contemporary engineering.

C1100

The McIntosh C1100C is a high-end vacuum tube preamplifier that boasts an exquisite build quality and exceptional audio performance. It is part of McIntosh's signature line of products, featuring a classic design with modern enhancements. The C1100C utilizes a combination of vacuum tubes and solid-state circuitry to achieve a warm, rich sound that is sought after by audiophiles. It includes multiple inputs, allowing for a wide range of audio sources to be connected, along with balanced and unbalanced outputs for flexible integration into audio systems. The unit features a large, illuminated front panel and robust construction with a glass front and aluminum chassis, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and durability. The C1100C's design incorporates advanced technologies such as a quad balanced design for minimal distortion, and it can facilitate home theater integration via an external processor input. Additionally, it is equipped with a dedicated volume control knob for precise adjustment and can manage multiple components seamlessly, making it a centerpiece in high-fidelity audio setups. Specifications may include a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 100 dB, and the capability to drive a variety of power amplifiers effectively.

C1100C

The McIntosh C104 is a mono tube preamplifier manufactured between 1950 and 1954, designed to deliver superior audio performance with its classic tube technology. The C104 features an elegant design, consistent with McIntosh's aesthetic, often highlighted by a black glass panel and illuminated logo. This device is prized by collectors and audio enthusiasts alike for its vintage sound quality, which is characterized by warmth and richness, typical of tube-based audio equipment. The C104 offers multiple inputs, facilitating versatility in connecting different audio sources. It typically has a straightforward layout, with knobs for volume and tone control, presenting an intuitive interface for the user.

C104

The McIntosh C100 is a versatile preamplifier that serves as the control center for audio systems, designed with multiple inputs and outputs to accommodate various sources. It features high-quality audio circuitry allowing it to provide a rich and refined sound. The unit is equipped with a headphone output, making it suitable for dedicated headphone listening. It offers the flexibility to connect to different audio components, and there is an option for phono capability to support vinyl sources. Improvements have been made during its production run, especially in volume control, where certain iterations received upgrades that enhanced the signal-to-noise ratio. While primarily a solid-state design, the C100 is known to deliver a sound quality that combines the clarity and dynamics typical of solid-state components with a warm, tube-like midrange. This results in an engaging listening experience characterized by a smooth treble and controlled bass response. Owners often praise the unit for its transparency and ability to reveal recording nuances, making it a sought-after choice for high-fidelity setups.

C100

The McIntosh C1000 is a high-performance audio preamplifier split into two units: the C1000C controller and the C1000T tube preamplifier. It offers an array of inputs and outputs for flexible connectivity. The system is designed to deliver pure audio signal amplification, and it enables users to choose between vacuum tube or solid state in the output stage through component swapping.

C1000

The McIntosh AE2 is a premium headphone amplifier designed to deliver high-quality audio performance for personal listening experiences. It features a robust build quality typical of McIntosh products, ensuring durability and longevity. The AE2 is compatible with a variety of headphone types, providing ample power and clarity to drive both open-back and closed-back designs effectively. Its output stage is designed to maintain the integrity of the audio signal, offering low distortion and high dynamic range. Additionally, the AE2 includes features such as a solid-state amplifier design with a wide frequency response, providing a balanced and nuanced sound profile that appeals to audiophiles. The sleek aesthetic incorporates McIntosh's signature aesthetic elements, such as illuminated controls and the classic blue VU meters, enhancing its visual appeal.

The McIntosh A116 is a 30 watt mono amplifier designed for compatibility with several McIntosh preamplifiers, including the C-8, C-4, C104, and C-108. It features an octal socket for power supply, allowing connection to these specific preamplifiers, while also offering versatility for use with other independently powered control units. With a frequency response range from 20 Hz to 30 kHz (±0.1 dB) and a low distortion rate of 0.5%, the amplifier delivers a clean and powerful sound. The A116 employs two 6BG6/1614 output tubes to produce its 30 watts of continuous power. Its chassis is finished in gray hammertone, contributing to its classic aesthetic. The A116 was originally priced at $143.50 (in 1955) and has since become a sought-after item, with prices ranging from $500 for untested units to up to $900 for those in excellent working condition. The original version was later succeeded by the A116B in 1954, which is commonly referred to as the MC-30.

A116

The McIntosh 50W-2 is a vintage amplifier that was produced between 1951 and 1955. It succeeded the earlier 50W-1 model, maintaining the same high output power of 50 watts, which is generated by a pair of 6L6-G tubes. The amplifier is notable for its performance specifications, including a bandwidth of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz and distortion levels of less than 1%. The 50W-2 features a unique dual chassis design, where one chassis is dedicated to the power supply (P50D) and the other houses the amplifier circuitry. Both chassis can be rack-mounted and are of the same size. The driving circuitry consists of two 6J5 tubes, with a 12AX7 tube serving as the phase inverter and preamplifier. For those needing continuous operation above 50 watts, it was advisable to use Tungsol 5881 tubes as replacements for the output tubes. The driver and output transformers are potted within a single case that serves as the amplifier chassis, while the power supply chassis includes a similarly integrated potted power transformer. This amplifier was designed to work with McIntosh’s preamplifiers such as the C104, AE-2A, or ACF-1, yet it could also accommodate any high-quality control unit. The chassis was designed with adaptability in mind, featuring sockets for various plug-in components like an additional 12AX7 tube or input transformers to enhance its versatility. Originally retailing at $249.50, the 50W-2 now is a collector's item, with prices ranging from $1000 to $1500 for working examples in good to excellent condition.

50W-2

The McIntosh 50W-1 is an audio amplifier that reflects the company's dedication to quality and performance. Designed to operate in various audio setups, it provides a robust output of 50 watts per channel. This amplifier is typically characterized by its signature blue watt meters, which offer visual feedback on performance levels. It features a large, easy-to-read front panel with controls for volume and bass/treble adjustments. The amplifier is built using high-quality components and features a durable construction, often housed in a distinctive black chassis with polished accents. The 50W-1 is compatible with a variety of speaker types, making it suitable for different listening environments. Its sound profile is generally described as clear and dynamic, with a well-balanced tonal range that caters to various musical genres. Operating with a low distortion level and a good damping factor, it can handle complex musical passages with ease, ensuring a satisfying listening experience.

50W-1

The McIntosh 20W-2 is a power amplifier that provides high-quality audio performance and is built with advanced technology to deliver exceptional sound reproduction. This amplifier is often integrated into various audio setups, offering the power needed to drive different types of speakers effectively. It features a robust design with a focus on durability and aesthetics, typical of the McIntosh brand. The unit is capable of providing up to 20 watts per channel, making it suitable for smaller speaker systems or as part of a multi-channel configuration. The amplifier is equipped with high-quality components, ensuring low distortion and excellent dynamic range. The unique appearance incorporates the signature McIntosh illuminated logo and meter design, which not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides useful visual feedback on the output levels. With various input and output options, the MC20W-2 allows for versatile integration into various audio systems.

20W-2

McIntosh Speaker Cables are designed to deliver optimal performance in audio systems, ensuring a clear and dynamic transmission of sound from amplifiers to speakers. Typically constructed with high-quality materials, these cables often feature a robust and durable design to withstand wear and tear. The conductors are usually made from pure copper or a combination of copper and other conductive materials, offering low resistance and minimal signal loss for enhanced sound quality. McIntosh speakers cables may feature various gauge wire configurations, which can affect the overall resistance and the ability to handle power without degradation of sound. Additionally, the cables are engineered to minimize interference from external sources and often come with connectors that are designed for secure and reliable connectivity. With an emphasis on aesthetics, the cables may also display the signature McIntosh style, complementing the look of other McIntosh products. Specifications can vary, but typical features include a range of lengths to accommodate different setups, with some models offering bi-wiring or stripping options for versatility. Users often appreciate the balance between flexibility and strength, making these cables suitable for both home and professional audio environments.

Speaker Cables

McIntosh Power Control Cables are engineered to interconnect various components of a McIntosh audio system, facilitating comprehensive control. When connected, these cables enable all linked components to turn on and off in conjunction with the preamp control center. They also allow for remote control operation and customization of meter lighting according to user preferences. Each cable is constructed with three conductors, featuring 28 AWG oxygen-free copper (OFC) wires to ensure quality signal transmission. The cables are insulated with PVC and wrapped in an outer PVC jacket, providing durability. Each end of the cable is fitted with a gold-plated 3.5mm stereo male connector, ensuring a reliable connection. These cables come with a limited lifetime warranty against failure under normal usage conditions. They are available in various lengths, including 1 meter and 2 meters.

Power Control Cables

McIntosh MI347 is a power amplifier with a compact design and solid build quality. It features advanced circuitry and technology to deliver high-quality audio performance. The amplifier has multiple inputs and outputs, allowing for versatile connectivity options. It provides a power output of X watts per channel and has a frequency response range of X Hz to X kHz. The MI347 also incorporates McIntosh's signature styling with a classic black glass front panel and iconic blue watt meters.

MI347

McIntosh Digital Audio Cables are designed to deliver high-quality digital audio signals between various components in an audio system, such as CD players, DACs, and amplifiers. These cables are crafted to minimize signal loss and interference, ensuring that the audio output maintains its integrity. Typically constructed with high-purity copper conductors, the cables feature a robust build that enhances durability and performance. Shielding is often implemented to reduce electromagnetic interference, which can degrade audio signals. The connectors are usually gold-plated to provide optimal conductivity and resistance to corrosion. These cables support a variety of formats, including coaxial and optical configurations, catering to different setups and preferences. Users often appreciate the combination of solid build quality and reliable performance, which can contribute to a more refined listening experience. McIntosh Digital Audio Cables are compatible with a wide range of audio equipment, making them versatile for different audio systems.

Digital Audio Cables

McIntosh Balanced Audio Cables are designed to provide a high-quality audio connection with minimal interference and signal degradation. These cables utilize a balanced design, which helps to eliminate noise and hum that can occur during audio transmission. The construction typically features a twisted pair configuration, where two conductors carry the audio signal in opposite phases, effectively canceling out any noise picked up along the way. McIntosh cables are often made with high-quality materials, including premium conductors and durable shielding to ensure reliable performance. The connectors are usually gold-plated to enhance conductivity and resist corrosion, ensuring a long-lasting connection. These cables are compatible with equipment that supports balanced audio, making them suitable for various applications within both home and professional audio systems.

Balanced Audio Cables

McIntosh Audio Cables are designed to complement the high-performance capabilities of McIntosh audio equipment. These cables are constructed with attention to detail, utilizing high-quality materials to ensure optimal signal transfer and minimal loss. The cables may feature oxygen-free copper conductors to enhance conductivity and reduce interference. Additionally, they often come with premium connectors, such as gold-plated RCA or XLR connections, ensuring a secure and reliable connection. McIntosh cables may also incorporate shielding techniques to protect against electromagnetic interference, providing clearer sound quality. The cable designs are typically durable, with flexible jackets that allow for easy routing and installation. Various lengths and types of cables, including speaker cables, interconnects, and digital cables, are available to suit different audio setups.

Audio Cables

McIntoshAP1 is an audio player application designed to work seamlessly with McIntosh audio systems. It allows users to stream high-quality music and manage their music libraries efficiently. The app typically supports various audio formats and offers features like playlist creation and remote control of McIntosh devices, enhancing the overall user experience for audiophiles.