McIntosh Laboratory
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| McIntosh Labs | |
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| Type | Corporation |
| Founded | 1949 |
| Headquarters | Binghamton, New York |
| Key people | Frank McIntosh, Founder |
| Industry | Electronics |
| Products | power amplifiers, tube amplifiers, integrated amplifiers, pre-amplifiers / controllers, audio/video control centers, DACs, CD player (also CD/SACD player), DVD player (w/ SACD & DVD-A), radio tuners (AM/FM), loudspeakers, hard drive based music server, car audio components |
| Parent | D&M Holdings |
| Website | McIntosh Labs |
McIntosh Laboratory is a manufacturer of high end audio equipment based in Binghamton, New York. Founded in 1949 by Frank McIntosh, the company is noted for its extremely high build quality and excellent technical specifications. The "classic" vacuum tube components of the 1960s include the MC275 power amplifier, the C22 preamplifier, and the MR67 tuner. Later McIntosh solid-state power amps are known for their distinctive blue colored meters.
[edit] Company history
The company was purchased by the Japanese car audio maker Clarion in 1990. McIntosh components, particularly the early tube models, are highly regarded in Japan. In a speech shortly after the purchase, Clarion president Yutaka Oyamada told McIntosh employees, "...we like McIntosh as it is, and we have no intention of changing what has made it so successful..."[1] Since the Clarion purchase, McIntosh has expanded into car audio and home theater.
In May 2003 McIntosh was sold by Clarion to D&M Holdings, also of Japan. McIntosh continues to operate independent engineering, design and production operations in accordance with the company's tradition.
[edit] Car audio
Models currently available include a CD changer, CD changer/AM/FM controller, and an external DAC.
Unique features such as the Fast Responding Wattmeter and the patented Power Guard circuitry set their amplifiers apart from others' products; currently, there are seven models offering from 75 to 2000 watts, divided amongst one to six channels. High quality power supplies, powerful circuit topologies, and balanced inputs complete each amplifier.
At the end of the chain lie their hand-built drivers, which come in standard 5-1/4" and 6-1/2" nominal sizes; all current models are two-way systems utilizing either an MS10 or MS20 tweeter. All applicable car products are finished with McIntosh's signature glass plate displays.
A few vehicles are available from the factory with McIntosh sound systems, including the 2001-2003 Subaru Outback VDC models, and the 2005-2006 Ford GT.
