RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
The asking price of US$14,375 is ambitious versus your recent comparable market: it sits above the US$11,553 75th percentile, so this is not a fair-market buy by the numbers and would need something special to justify the premium. Against a median of US$8,731, it’s a meaningful stretch rather than a close call.
That said, this is a well-regarded preamp with real collector pull and a strong reputation for musicality, phono performance, and long-term desirability. If the unit is genuinely clean, original, and well cared for, that helps; but at US$14,375 I’d want compelling upside such as exceptional cosmetic condition, verified originality, documented servicing, or included accessories before paying up.
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.
