Mcintosh MC2000 (1999–2000)
A limited-edition tube amplifier created to commemorate McIntosh’s 50th anniversary.
Overview
The McIntosh MC2000 is a 2-channel vacuum tube power amplifier produced from 1999 to 2000 to mark the company's 50th anniversary. Only a limited number were made, making it one of the rarest McIntosh amplifiers. Designed by Sydney Codaman, it combines legacy McIntosh engineering with new innovations, drawing design inspiration from the iconic C22 and MC275 models. Marketed as a flagship tribute, the MC2000 was built to embody five decades of tube amplifier expertise.
Specifications
| Power output | 130Wpc from 2, 4, and 8 ohm taps |
| Circuit technology | patented Unity Coupled Circuit with a Bifilar Wound Output Transformer |
| Inputs | gold-plated RCA/XLR inputs |
| Speaker connections | 200-amp binding posts |
| Frequency response | full power output down to 17Hz |
| Construction | Dual-mono on a single chassis |
Design
The MC2000 was designed by Sydney Codaman and features the patented McIntosh Unity Coupled Circuit with a Bifilar Wound Output Transformer, ensuring low distortion and the ability to drive any speaker load. It incorporates dual-mono circuitry on a single chassis and uses gold-plated RCA and XLR inputs alongside 200-amp binding posts. The design integrates lessons from the C22 and MC275, while introducing updated tube amplifier technology developed over 50 years.
Context
The MC2000 was released specifically to commemorate McIntosh’s 50th anniversary, serving as a limited-production flagship tube amplifier. Manufactured only in 1999 and 2000, it represents a milestone in the brand’s history and was reviewed by Stereophile contributing editor Sam Tellig, one of the first critics to evaluate the model.
Market
Originally priced at £9000.00, the MC2000 now commands high collector interest, with units listed at $29,990.00 in NOS (New Old Stock) sealed condition. Described as "UBER RARE!", surviving examples in unopened packaging are particularly sought after.
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