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The Excellent condition note matters here: at US$2,900, this sits a bit above the US$2,499 median but well inside the usual spread, below the US$4,631 75th percentile, so it reads as a fair-to-slightly-strong asking price rather than a bargain or stretch. For a clean McIntosh preamp, that’s still reasonable if the unit is fully functional and cosmetically as described.
That makes it a worthwhile buy if you want a well-regarded solid-state preamp with the usual McIntosh strengths: refined phono/line-stage performance, strong build quality, and easy resaleability. The upside is greatest if it comes with the remote, original box, and documented service history; if those are missing, I’d still call the price acceptable, but not an automatic slam-dunk.
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.
