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 famous for their distinctive blue colored meters.

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..." Since the Clarion purchase, McIntosh has expanded into car audio and home theater. The Ford GT includes a McIntosh in-dash CD player.

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 of quality.

Car audio

McIntosh is considered by many to be one of the world's premier car audio manufacturers. Their source units are legendary for their ease of use and excellent "feel". They are designed with the same care that is paid to McIntosh's home source units, a level of dedication rarely seen in the car audio universe. The three 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 200 to 600 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 utilising either an MS10 or MS20 tweeter. All applicable car products are finished with McIntosh's signature glass plate displays and blue wattmeters.

External links

• McIntosh Laboratory website
• Press release for 2003 acquisition by D&M
• Roger Russell's McIntosh pages
• Berner's McIntosh site
• Mcintosh Laboratory Museum

High end audio | Audio companies | Manufacturing companies of the United States | Compact Disc player manufacturers | Consumer electronics | Sound amplifier manufacturers | Binghamton, New York

McIntosh Laboratory | マッキントッシュ・ラボ