C500

About the C500

The McIntosh C500 Tube Preamplifier is a premium two-chassis design that separates the power supply/control section from the audio processing chassis to minimize interference and maximize audio purity. It features a dual-mono design with separate power supplies for each channel, fully balanced circuitry, and a tube-based audio section. The unit supports Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) phono inputs with selectable loading, and includes a precision digitally controlled volume attenuator with 16-bit precision and 213 individual 0.5 dB steps. The preamplifier offers multiple balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs, headphone amplifier, output level meters, and home theater pass-thru. Its build quality is exemplary, with McIntosh's signature black glass faceplate, aluminum sides, and blue output meters. The sound quality is reference grade, delivering natural, unforced music reproduction with superb presence, low noise floor, and detailed soundstage. The tube version adds a slight mid-bass bloom but remains highly regarded for its sonic character. The C500 is designed for audiophiles seeking the warmth and liquidity of tubes combined with McIntosh's legendary engineering and reliability.