McIntosh C70 (2018–2020)
Limited-edition vacuum tube preamplifier built to celebrate McIntosh’s 70th anniversary, featuring all-analog design, visible tubes, and modern connectivity.
Overview
The McIntosh C70 is a 2-channel vacuum tube preamplifier produced from 2018 to 2020 as part of McIntosh’s 70th-anniversary celebration. Originally created as one of 70 limited Commemorative Systems—each paired with the MC2152 amplifier and marked “1 of 70”—a non-commemorative version was later made available after the initial run sold out. The unit features a retro design with modern functionality, including balanced and unbalanced inputs, moving coil and moving magnet phono stages, and a high-drive headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) technology. It was designed to honor McIntosh’s legacy with a blend of classic tube sound and contemporary engineering.
Specifications
| Year of Production | 2018–2020 |
| Product Type | Preamplifier |
| Tubes | (5) 12AX7A and (1) 12AT7 vacuum tubes |
| Inputs | Two balanced, three unbalanced, one MC, one MM phono |
| Outputs | Two pairs each of balanced and unbalanced |
| Phono Inputs | Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) |
| Frequency Response | 15Hz to 100kHz |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.08% |
| Gain | 60dB (MC), 40dB (MM), 15dB (line) |
| Input Sensitivity | 0.45mV (MC), 4.5mV (MM), 450mV (line) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 75dB (MC), 75dB (MM), 100dB (line) |
| Output | 2.5V (Pre out), 8V (Pre out Max) |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Dimensions | 17.5” x 6” x 18” (44.45cm x 15.24cm x 45.72cm) |
| Weight | 25 lbs |
Design
The C70 features an all-analog design with a retro aesthetic, including a black glass front panel inscribed with 70th Anniversary lettering, illuminated logo, control knobs, and aluminum end caps, all mounted on a polished stainless steel chassis. The vacuum tubes are visible through a glass panel on the top cover. Control operations are handled via physical knobs and rocker switches, with modern LED indicators showing input selection and volume level. It includes Power Control to automatically turn connected McIntosh components on and off, and a High Drive headphone amplifier with HXD® technology for improved stereo imaging.
Context
The C70 was introduced in 2018 as part of a limited run of 70 Commemorative Systems to mark McIntosh’s 70th anniversary in 2019. Each system sale included a $1,000 donation to Save the Children. After the limited systems sold out, a non-commemorative version of the C70 became available. It shares design and feature similarities with the modern C22 preamplifier but was built as a special tribute with unique 70th Anniversary markings. The commemorative units have matching serial numbers and “1 of 70” labeling; standard anniversary models lack these specific identifiers.
Market
The original MSRP was $7,000. Current market value ranges from $7,000 to $9,000 depending on condition and accessories. The limited edition status of the 70 Commemorative Systems makes them highly collectible, with a collectibility rating of 8/10. Regular maintenance includes replacing the 12AX7A and 12AT7 tubes every 2–3 years and checking tube contacts; long-term ownership may require attention to capacitor aging. Units have been observed in new old stock condition, as well as with one or two previous owners and no service history.
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