The McIntosh C8 (designed to pair perfectly with their mono power amplifiers like the MC30) is pure early-McIntosh magic—a mid-1950s tube preamplifier that helped write the blueprint for high-fidelity as we know it. With its modular plug-in equalizer curves, dual-chassis power supply, and unmistakable industrial aesthetic, the C8 was built for serious listeners in an era when hi-fi was still a frontier. Sonically, it delivers that gorgeous vintage glow: rich, golden mids, smooth rolled-off highs, and a warmth that makes vinyl and tape feel intimate and alive. It’s not just a preamp—it’s a piece of McIntosh history, a glimpse into the moment when American hi-fi was becoming an art form. Owning a C8 is like holding the roots of the hobby in your hands.
- Production
- 1955-59
- Condition
- 9/10
- Serial No.
- 4B285
- Orig. MSRP
- $107.50 w/ cabinet
- Restoration
- Replaced all electrolytic capacitors
- Replaced 2-12AX7 tubes
- Cleaned control contacts
- Replaced lamp
- Polished front brass faceplate
- Includes octal cable
- Unit must be operated with a compatible McIntosh amplifier to receive power
- Volume must be turned down when switching inputs to prevent popping through the speaker
- Factory Specs
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz
Total harmonic distortion 0.3%
Input sensitivity 5mV (MM), 500mV (line)
Signal to noise ratio 80dB (line)
Output 500mV (line), 2.5V (Pre out)
Dimensions 10-1/8 x 3-9/16 x 7-1/2 inches
- Documentation
McIntosh C8 Owner's Manual
- The History of McIntosh
- Founded in 1949, McIntosh is known for offering distinguished home audio systems that deliver the ultimate experience in music and film. Offering products for two-channel stereo sound systems and multi-channel home theaters with surround sound, McIntosh continues to define the ultimate home audio entertainment...
[ Read More ]
- Liner Notes
The McIntosh C8 Record Compensator is a complete control unit for professional or home entertainment systems. The C8 supplies the necessary gain and equalization for use with low level phonograph cartridges as well as the high output of radio tuners.
- Packing
- Prepare to be impressed. We have arguably the best packing process around. We use our InstaPak machine and white open cell foam to build a custom enclosure for your piece that ensures that it's stable and secure. If it is particularly fragile or heavy, we typically opt for private courier delivery. Depending on where you are in the country, that may cost a bit extra. We also take great care to protect the tubes. When sensible, we will pack the tubes to prevent any movement. Other times, we'll individually wrap the tubes and mark their corresponding socket to preserve the bias. You can be confident that your piece will be snug as a bug in a rug.
- Shipping
- This piece ships to the contiguous United States for a flat rate of $50, which includes our packaging and our insurance. Of course, we'll ship anywhere in the world, just drop us a line and we'll give you an estimate – even if you're just curious.
- Stock No.
- 9225360933085
The McIntosh C8 (designed to pair perfectly with their mono power amplifiers like the MC30) is pure early-McIntosh magic—a mid-1950s tube preamplifier that helped write the blueprint for high-fidelity as we know it. With its modular plug-in equalizer curves, dual-chassis power supply, and unmistakable industrial aesthetic, the C8 was built for serious listeners in an era when hi-fi was still a frontier. Sonically, it delivers that gorgeous vintage glow: rich, golden mids, smooth rolled-off highs, and a warmth that makes vinyl and tape feel intimate and alive. It’s not just a preamp—it’s a piece of McIntosh history, a glimpse into the moment when American hi-fi was becoming an art form. Owning a C8 is like holding the roots of the hobby in your hands.
Production
1955-59
Condition
9/10
Serial No.
4B285
Orig. MSRP
$107.50 w/ cabinet
Restoration
- Replaced all electrolytic capacitors
- Replaced 2-12AX7 tubes
- Cleaned control contacts
- Replaced lamp
- Polished front brass faceplate
- Includes octal cable
- Unit must be operated with a compatible McIntosh amplifier to receive power
- Volume must be turned down when switching inputs to prevent popping through the speaker
Factory Specs
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz
Total harmonic distortion 0.3%
Input sensitivity 5mV (MM), 500mV (line)
Signal to noise ratio 80dB (line)
Output 500mV (line), 2.5V (Pre out)
Dimensions 10-1/8 x 3-9/16 x 7-1/2 inches
Documentation
McIntosh C8 Owner's Manual
The History of McIntosh
Founded in 1949, McIntosh is known for offering distinguished home audio systems that deliver the ultimate experience in music and film. Offering products for two-channel stereo sound systems and multi-channel home theaters with surround sound, McIntosh continues to define the ultimate home audio entertainment...
[ Read More ]
Liner Notes
The McIntosh C8 Record Compensator is a complete control unit for professional or home entertainment systems. The C8 supplies the necessary gain and equalization for use with low level phonograph cartridges as well as the high output of radio tuners.
Packing
Prepare to be impressed. We have arguably the best packing process around. We use our InstaPak machine and white open cell foam to build a custom enclosure for your piece that ensures that it's stable and secure. If it is particularly fragile or heavy, we typically opt for private courier delivery. Depending on where you are in the country, that may cost a bit extra. We also take great care to protect the tubes. When sensible, we will pack the tubes to prevent any movement. Other times, we'll individually wrap the tubes and mark their corresponding socket to preserve the bias. You can be confident that your piece will be snug as a bug in a rug.
Shipping
This piece ships to the contiguous United States for a flat rate of $50, which includes our packaging and our insurance. Of course, we'll ship anywhere in the world, just drop us a line and we'll give you an estimate – even if you're just curious.
Stock No.
9225360933085
