The McIntosh C22 is a high-end vacuum-tube two-channel preamplifier designed for audiophiles who want the harmonic richness and musical warmth of tubes in the front end of their system. It represents a blend of classic design heritage (both visually and sonically) and modern McIntosh engineering. The Mk V version revives the respected “C22” model number with updated features, while retaining McIntosh’s iconic aesthetic: black-glass and aluminum front panel, polished details, visible tubes through a top glass panel, and a substantial, premium build. 

As a preamplifier, the C22 handles signal switching, input selection, volume control, phono (MM/MC) amplification, tone controls, and sends the processed signal onward to a power amplifier. Because of its tube architecture, it is often praised for its musical character, depth of soundstage, and timbral richness.

Design & Features

• Tube-Based Front End: The C22 Mk V uses one 12AT7 and five 12AX7A vacuum tubes in its internal circuitry, visible through a glass top panel. 

• Phono Inputs (MM and MC): It supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridge types with adjustable loading (impedance and capacitance) to match different turntables. 

• Balanced and Unbalanced Line Inputs & Outputs: It has multiple balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs, plus selectable outputs, allowing connection to multiple power amplifiers or zones. 

• Tone Controls: Bass and Treble tone adjustment (with bypass option) allow listeners to fine-tune the sonic balance to room, speaker or personal preference.

• Headphone Amplifier with HXD®: The unit includes a high-drive headphone output and McIntosh’s Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) technology to enhance headphone listening by restoring sound-stage directionality. 

• Classic Aesthetics & Build: The chassis features polished stainless steel (or similar finish), aluminum end caps, black-glass front panel, illuminated McIntosh logo. The styling links the unit to the brand’s longstanding heritage.

• Power Control & System Integration: The C22 includes power control ports, data ports, and remote control capability to integrate with other McIntosh components for automated system power management.

Technical Specifications 

• Number of Channels: 2 (stereo) 

• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.08% (typical) 

• Frequency Response: +0 / -0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz; +0 / -3 dB from 15 Hz to 100 kHz 

• Maximum Output Voltage: 16 V RMS (balanced) / 8 V RMS (unbalanced) 

• Input Sensitivity – High Level: 900 mV (balanced) / 450 mV (unbalanced) 

• Input Sensitivity – Phono: 0.45 mV (MC) / 4.5 mV (MM) 

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N): High Level ~100 dB; MC ~75 dB; MM ~75 dB 

• Input Impedance: Balanced 44 kΩ; Unbalanced 22 kΩ (line level) 

• Tube Complement: 5 × 12AX7A + 1 × 12AT7 

• Dimensions (W × H × D): Approximately 17.5″ × 6″ × 18″ (44.45 cm × 15.24 cm × 45.72 cm) 

• Weight: ~25 lbs (11.3 kg)