Thread: McIntosh C500 Preamplifier Reviewed

I have long been a fan of using tube preamplifiers in my stereo systems. The combination of liquidity and presence that a good tube product can add to the mix can make for an intoxicating listening experience. Others prefer solid state gear and its traditional accompanying characteristics of detail and control. The C500 preamplifier from McIntosh Laboratories lets the listener make their tube or solid state choice. This preamplifier consists of two chassis: a 'Controller Chassis' and a 'Preamplifier Chassis'. The 'Preamplifier Chassis' can be ordered in either solid state or tube configurations. (The top of the line C1000 can be configured as three chassis preamplifiers with both solid state and tube chassis so the listener can switch between them at will.)

Home Theater Review

The top of the line C1000 can be configured as three chassis preamplifiers with both solid state and tube chassis so the listener can switch between them at will.

Now that is a feature I really like as will a number of other audio enthusiasts/purists. Although I have not owned any McIntosh equipment for many years, they continue to make reference level equipment that compares with the best available, Kudos...