McIntosh C500 (2003-2007)
At 40 lbs, this dual-chassis preamplifier carries the weight of serious engineering and McIntosh’s unrelenting standards.
Overview
The McIntosh C500 stereo preamplifier, produced from 2003 to 2007, is a high-end control center that embodies the brand’s philosophy of separating critical functions into dedicated components—even within a single system. Unlike conventional preamps, the C500采用了 a dual-chassis design: one housing the audio processing circuitry, the other containing the power supply and microprocessor-based control section. This physical separation aims to eliminate noise coupling and ensure the purest signal path. Marketed as both a "Control Center" and a "Line/Phono Preamplifier," the C500 was offered in two configurations—tube (C500T) and solid-state (C500P)—each paired with the same controller unit (C500C). This modular approach gave buyers the choice of sonic character without sacrificing McIntosh’s hallmark build quality or operational precision.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | McIntosh Laboratory |
| Year of Production | 2003-2007 |
| Product Type | Preamplifier |
| Frequency Response | +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Rated Distortion | 0.005% |
| Maximum Output | 16 Volts BAL, 8 Volts SE |
| Signal to Noise | 100dB |
| Input Impedance | 50k ohms |
| Output Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Phono Input Sensitivity | 2.5mV |
| Phono Input Impedance | 47k ohms, 100pF |
| Phono Overload | 500mV @ 1kHz |
| Phono S/N | 80dB |
| Phono Equalization | RIAA ±0.5dB |
| High Level Input Sensitivity | 500mV |
| Tone Control Range | ±12dB @ 20Hz and 20kHz |
| Filter Frequencies | High 10kHz, Low 50Hz |
| Headphone Output Impedance | 40 ohms |
| Headphone Output Power | 1/2 Watt |
| Tube Complement | 12AX7A (4), 12AT7 (2) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 17-1/2" (44.45 cm) W x 7" (17.78 cm) H x 18" (45.72 cm) D |
| Weight | 40 lbs (18.14 kg) |
| Power Requirements | 120 Volts 50/60Hz, 50 Watts |
Key Features
Dual-Chassis Design with Isolated Power and Control
The C500’s most defining trait is its two-box construction: the audio chassis and the control/power supply chassis are housed separately. This "luxurious two box design" isolates sensitive analog circuitry from digital switching noise and transformer hum. According to McIntosh, this includes separate transformers and voltage regulation for the audio and control sections, minimizing interference and preserving signal integrity. The physical division reinforces the preamp’s role as a high-precision hub in a top-tier system.
Tube or Solid-State Audio Chassis Option
Buyers could choose between the C500T (tube) and C500P (solid-state) versions for the audio processing module. The tube variant uses four 12AX7A and two 12AT7 tubes, promising the warmth and harmonic richness associated with vacuum tube amplification, while the solid-state version delivers the speed and neutrality expected from modern transistor circuits. This rare configurability allowed audiophiles to tailor the preamp’s character to their system and taste without changing the control interface or build standard.
Dual Mono and Microprocessor-Controlled Operation
Internally, the C500 employs a dual mono design, meaning the left and right channels are completely independent from input to output, reducing crosstalk and enhancing stereo imaging. Volume and input selection are managed via a microprocessor-controlled system, which drives a precision resistor ladder network. This eliminates the wear and channel imbalance common in traditional potentiometers, ensuring accurate, repeatable level settings over time. Gold-plated connectors are used throughout for reliable signal transfer.
Comprehensive Phono Stage with RIAA Accuracy
The built-in phono stage is engineered to high standards, with a sensitivity of 2.5mV and input impedance of 47k ohms and 100pF—suitable for moving magnet cartridges. It adheres to RIAA equalization within ±0.5dB, and offers 80dB of signal-to-noise ratio. Reviewers noted its performance compared favorably to outboard phono preamps of the era, making it a compelling all-in-one solution for vinyl enthusiasts.
Collectibility & Value
The McIntosh C500 launched with an original MSRP between $12,000 and $18,000, reflecting its modular design and premium positioning. On the secondary market, prices vary widely based on configuration, condition, and tube status. Used units have sold for as low as $1,895 and as high as $10,000, with listings on HifiZero ranging from $5,150 to $5,499. Its collectibility stems from its rarity, dual-chassis architecture, and the option to own either tube or solid-state sonics in a McIntosh-controlled environment. No widespread reliability issues have been documented, though as with any complex vintage electronics, aging capacitors or microprocessor glitches could emerge with time.
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