RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
This is in excellent cosmetic condition. Recently given a clean bill of health from NYC’s Technetron Electronics following a check up before selling and set aside until now. It’s gorgeous.While a fantastic sounding preamp, I haven’t put very many hours on it. I’m simplifying my setups and I don’t use all the many features and connections a C46 offers. However, I’ve really enjoyed the 8 band EQ, which is why I’ve held onto it this long. As a music producer and engineer, It’s such a pleasure to tweak and adjust the different sources, as we are wont to do. (I’m still keeping my Mac 4200 with its 5 band EQ)This comes with the original manual and a generic remote. If shipped, this will be very well packed. Local pickup in Brooklyn NY is available.Offers a highly refined combination of useful operating features with totally transparent electronic performance. You can take advantage of the eight-band equalizer to achieve the finest possible reproduction of digital source music as well as valuable music from earlier recording technology.Classic McIntosh solid-state preamplifier with renowned build qualityFully balanced circuitry for improved noise performanceHigh-quality analog input stageIlluminated McIntosh glass faceplate with fiber-optic lightingSmooth, high-quality control knobs and switchesExcellent compatibility with McIntosh amplifiers and systemsAudiophile-grade performance with low noise and wide dynamic rangeGlass faceplate is clean and free of cracksDisplay illumination is even and brightChassis is in excellent condition with minimal markingsAll connectors are tight and fully functionalNo dents or significant scratchesModel: McIntosh C46Type: 2-Channel Solid State Audio Control Center / PreamplifierVoltage: 120VChannels: 2-Channel StereoInputs: Multiple analog inputs, balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA)Outputs: Balanced and unbalancedTone Controls: 8-band equalizer 20Hz, 35Hz, 70Hz, 150Hz, 300Hz, 600Hz,1.2kHz, 4kHz with plus/minus 12dB boost or cut each freq.Color: Black with classic McIntosh glass faceplateCountry of Manufacture: USATotal harmonic distortion: 0.002%Gain: 15dB (line)Input sensitivity: 4.5mV (MM), 450mV (line)Signal to noise ratio: 86dB (MM), 97dB (line)Output: 2.5V (Pre out), 10V (Pre out Max)Width: 17.5 inches (44.45 cm)Height: 5.375 inches 13.65 cm)Depth: 19 inches (48.26 cm)
A used C46 at US$3,750 is ambitious versus the market; the obvious alternative is the US$3,000 asking seen on Audiogon, and another example has traded around US$2,700 with remote and cord included. That puts this listing above the usual used range, so I’d only pay it if the unit is exceptionally clean, fully serviced, and complete.
The reason to buy one is simple: it’s a classic McIntosh control center with the brand’s solid build, remote convenience, and the useful 8-band EQ. If it’s truly original-owner, well cared for, and includes the remote, box, and packing, that adds real value; otherwise, at this price, completeness matters a lot.
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.
See all McIntosh listings on RADAR.
