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Selling a McIntosh C49 solid state preamplifier in very good used condition.Some little signs of use here and there, mostly fingermarks on the glass panel.Comes with the original remote and carton box for shipping.These go for 7690€ new in the EU.Asking 5400€Shipping in the EU with UPS approx 60€, please ask for details.On sale elsewhere as well.From a private collection, no deductible VAT.Please see my other listings at:https://reverb.com/shop/helsinki-gear-central
At US$5,935, this McIntosh C49 preamp is ambitious compared to the obvious alternative of buying a newer solid-state unit or a used C44 at a lower entry point, as the asking price sits well above the 75th percentile of US$4,707 in our database of 348 recent USD listings, where the median is US$2,800. While the new price in Europe is roughly US$6,850, this used listing exceeds the top quarter of the domestic market, making it a tough sell unless the condition is pristine and original.
The C49 remains a highly regarded solid-state preamp known for its clean, transparent sound and McIntosh’s signature reliability, delivering excellent dynamics and low noise that justify its reputation among enthusiasts. If this is a clean, original-owner unit with all accessories and no service history gaps, it could still be a worthwhile buy for someone prioritizing build quality and tonal purity, but at this price, buyers should verify the condition thoroughly before committing.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
McIntosh Laboratory, founded in 1949 in the United States by Frank H. McIntosh and Gordon Gow, embodies a storied heritage of American audio innovation. Originally based in Silver Spring, Maryland, before relocating to Binghamton, New York, where products are still handcrafted today, the brand emerged from a commitment to superior sound reproduction. From powering President Lyndon Johnson's inauguration to the Grateful Dead's Wall of Sound at Woodstock, McIntosh has shaped pivotal moments in music history and pop culture, earning its place as a cultural icon.
The company specializes in a comprehensive lineup of high-fidelity components, including renowned amplifiers—particularly its revered tube models for their warm, enveloping sound—along with solid-state power amps, stereo tuners, loudspeakers, turntables, music streamers, processors, and digital-to-analog converters. This breadth supports both two-channel stereo systems and multi-channel home theaters, delivering immersive experiences in music and film. Iconic blue watt meters on their gear have become globally recognized symbols of precision and power.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, McIntosh commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its uncompromising quality, luxurious build, and timeless design. Far from mid-tier or niche boutique, it stands as a premium benchmark, favored by legendary musicians and producers across decades, blending vintage allure with modern performance for those who demand the ultimate in sonic fidelity.
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