McIntosh debuts C22 Mk V and MC1502 valve amplifiers

McIntosh Laboratory has introduced two striking new Vacuum Tube amplifiers, the C22 preamp Mk V, and MC1502 power amp.

The C22 preamp is the fifth incarnation of one of its most famous valve preamps and directly replaces its predecessor, the C70 Limited Edition 70th Anniversary Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, launched in 2019.

The MC1502 is powered by eight KT88 output valves, with four assigned to each stereo channel. It also features eight small-signal valves, all of which are covered by a 12-gauge stainless steel wire cage with a black powder-coated finish.

The C22 Mk V’s valves are visible through a top-mounted glass panel (pictured above). Connectivity includes provision for directly connecting turntables (there’s a choice of both Moving Coil and Moving Magnet inputs).

The C22 Mk V offers front panel rotary tone control knobs for bass and treble, plus the main volume knob can also be used to adjust balance.

Integrators can take advantage of McIntosh Power Control technology, with four ports capable of automatically turning other connected McIntosh components on and off. Data ports are also present, to control connected McIntosh source components via the included remote control.

The MC1502 Vacuum Tube amp (above) has a150-watt output, able to drive almost any pair of speakers, thanks to the brand’s patented Unity Coupled Circuit output transformer technology, the same technology McIntosh was founded on in 1949.

The MC1502 is powered by eight KT88 output valves, with four assigned to each stereo channel. It also features eight small-signal valves, all of which are covered by a 12-gauge stainless steel wire cage with a black powder-coated finish.

Air-Pipe cooling for the valves helps to facilitate long life and the eight signal tube sockets have ceramic base construction with gold-plated contacts, providing protection from atmospheric contamination.

Both amplifiers will land in the UK from September, pricing £TBA