













McIntosh
C22 2-Channel Preamplifier Mk V
- Type: Vacuum Tube
- 7 analog inputs
- Bass and Treble tone controls
- Retro styled glass and aluminum front panel
Pairs well with
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days.
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2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping & returns
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Overview


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.

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

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

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.

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)
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.