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Overview

2020 Editors Choice award Nghe Nhin Magazine
McIntosh C22 Preamplifier Mk V

This newest version of our C22 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier – the Mk V – is the direct replacement to our highly regarded C70 Limited Edition 70th Anniversary Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, which commemorated our 70th Anniversary that took place in 2019. The new C22 Mk V is the latest McIntosh vacuum tube preamplifier to carry the cherished C22 model number. It has all the performance of the acclaimed C70 but with the hallowed C22 moniker and its signature glass and aluminum front panel design.

McIntosh C22 Preamplifier Mk V

The C22 Mk V uses one 12AT7 and five 12AX7A vacuum tubes which can be seen through a glass panel located on the top of the preamp. Knobs and rocker switches operate all control functions while modern LED lights indicate input selection and volume level. The C22 Mk V has two balanced inputs, three unbalanced inputs, one Moving Coil and one Moving Magnet phono inputs, for a total of seven inputs. There are two pairs each of balanced and unbalanced output connections; the two outputs allow sending signals to two separate power amplifiers.

The MC1502Vacuum Tube Amplifier and C22Vacuum Tube Preamplifier Mk V represents McIntosh’s traditional heritage sound and with the added modern McIntosh technology, another masterpiece is born. – HiFi & Home Theater Audio

McIntosh C22 Preamplifier Mk V

Bypassable bass and treble tone controls are located on the front panel and can be adjusted in 2dB increments via rotary knobs. Impedance and capacitance for the phono inputs can also be adjusted via separate rotary knobs. In addition to setting the listening level, the volume knob can also be used to adjust the relative volume balance between the left and right audio channels. The ¼” headphone jack is powered by our High Drive headphone amplifier and features our Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) technology. HXD improves the sound localization for headphone listening by restoring the directionality component of the sound stage that's normally only heard from loudspeakers.

The MC1502Vacuum Tube Amplifier and C22Vacuum Tube Preamplifier Mk V is "outstanding equipment" and "is rich with an uncommon magic and will provide precious pleasure. Moreover it will fit most loudspeakers nicely, even the most demanding ones." C22 Mk V named Winner of Reference Award. - Haute Fidélité

McIntosh C22 Preamplifier Mk V

Our Power Control technology is included with four ports that can automatically turn other connected McIntosh components such asamplifiers, CD playersor turntables, on and off.Data ports are also present and can control basic functions of connected McIntosh source components via the included remote control.

McIntosh C22 Preamplifier Mk V

The C22 Mk V sits atop a stunning polished stainless steel chassis and features the timeless McIntosh illuminated logo, control knobs, and aluminum end caps. With its retro black glass and aluminum front panel design, the C22 Mk V will fit right in with McIntosh home audio systems of any era – from the 1950s to current day. Contact your local dealerto learn more.

Specifications

Electronic Specifications

Number of Channels

2

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.08%

Frequency Response

+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz

+0, -3dB from 15Hz to 100kHz

Maximum Volts Out (Balanced / Unbalanced)

16V RMS / 8V RMS

Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced)

900mV / 450mV

Sensitivity Phono (Moving Coil)

0.45mV

Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet)

4.5mV

Signal To Noise Ratio (High Level)

100dB

Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Coil)

75dB

Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Magnet)

75dB

Voltage Gain (High Level)

15dB

Voltage Gain (Moving Coil)

60dB

Voltage Gain (Moving Magnet)

40dB

Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced)

44K ohm, 22K ohm

Connectivity

Balanced Input

2

Unbalanced Input

3

Phono Input Moving Coil

1 (adjustable)

Phono Input Moving Magnet

1 (adjustable)

Upgradeable Digital Audio Module

No

Digital Coaxial Inputs

0

Digital Optical Inputs

0

Digital MCT Inputs

0

Digital USB Input

0

HDMI (ARC) Input

0

Digital AES/EBU Input

0

Balanced Fixed Output

0

Balanced Variable Output

2

Unbalanced Fixed Output

0

Unbalanced Variable Output

2

Headphone Output

1/4" High Drive with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)

Input Level Match

No

Home Theater PassThru

No

Unbalanced Analog Connector Type

Premium gold-plated solid brass

Service Port

0

Network Connections

0

Control

Tone Controls

Bass and Treble

Tone Bypass and Input Assign

Tone Bypass: Yes

Input Assign: No

RS232 Control Inputs

No

Power Control Outputs

2 Main, 2 Switched

Rear Panel Data Ports

5

Rear Panel IR Sensor Inputs

Yes

General Specifications

Multi-Chassis or Single

Single, two layer

Output Meters

No

Vacuum Tube or Solid State

Vacuum Tube: (5) 12AX7A and (1) 12AT7

Power Consumption (On)

50 Watts

Weights & Dimensions

Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)

17.5" (44.45cm) x 6" (15.24cm) x 18" (45.72cm)

Unit Weight

25 lbs (11.3kg)

Shipping Weight

41.4 lbs (18.8kg)

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Do you price match?

Yes. We match any authorised dealer, including big-box retailers. If you find the same product at a lower price, contact us and we'll match it.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — free shipping on every order, with 2-day delivery available on most products. Easy returns and exchanges are included.

Where is your showroom?

We're at 6362 Alder Drive, Houston, Texas. The showroom lets you hear and compare reference-level systems in person before making any decisions. If you're considering a larger purchase or installation, it's well worth the visit.

Can I buy online without visiting the showroom?

Yes. The full product range is available through the online store with free nationwide shipping. For more complex system builds, speaking with one of our advisers first tends to lead to a better result.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Special financing is available through the BrandSource Credit Card for qualifying purchases, allowing you to spread payments over time with no annual fee. Promotional rebate savings are also available periodically. See the financing page for full details.

Do you install systems as well as sell equipment?

Yes — installation is central to what we do. We design and install whole-home audio and video, home theaters, media rooms, outdoor audio, lighting and motorised shades, and full smart home automation.

Do you provide support after installation?

Yes. We provide ongoing service and support to ensure systems continue performing as intended — not just on installation day, but over the long term.