McIntosh C26 Stereo Preamplifier

The McIntosh C26 is a classic, two-channel solid-state stereo preamplifier manufactured by McIntosh Labs between 1968 and 1978. Known for its iconic illuminated glass front panel, it serves as a highly versatile control center for vintage analog hi-fi systems.

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (+0, -0.5 dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Less than 0.1% at 2.5V rated output
• Voltage Gain: 20 dB (Line/Aux), 62 dB (Phono)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Hum & Noise):
  • Line Level (Aux/Tuner/Tape): -85 dB below rated output
  • Phono Inputs: -74 dB below rated output (with 10mV input signal)
• Output Levels: 2.5V rated (Main output), 10V maximum without distortion
• Output Impedance: 200 ohms (Main)
• Load Impedance: 47,000 ohms or greater

• Phono 1 & Phono 2 (MM): 2 mV sensitivity at 47k \(\Omega \) impedance
• Aux, Tuner, Tape 1, Tape 2: 0.25V sensitivity at 250k \(\Omega \) impedance []

• Tone Controls: 11-position switched, dual-concentric controls
  • Bass: -20 dB to +16 dB at 20 Hz
  • Treble: -20 dB to +20 dB at 20,000 Hz
• Loudness Control: Continuously variable from flat to maximum
• Low-Frequency Filter (LF): Flat or roll-off below 50 Hz (down 12 dB at 20 Hz)
• High-Frequency Filter (HF): Flat or roll-off above 5,000 Hz (down 12 dB at 20,000 Hz)
• Phase Control: Top-panel switch allows shifting left channel phase (\(0^{\circ }\) or \(180^{\circ }\))
• Center Channel Output: Independent volume control on top panel adjusts the combined L+R center output from -6 dB to +6 dB. 

• Dimensions: 16" Wide \(\times \) 5-7/16" High \(\times \) 13" Deep (406.4 \(\times \) 138.1 \(\times \) 330 mm)
• Weight: 18 lbs (8.16 kg) net; shipping weight approx. 31 lbs
• Power Requirements: 120V @ 15 Watts
• AC Convenience Outlets: 4 switched (black), 1 unswitched (red for turntables)