A Tube Monoblock with History

The McIntosh MC3500 MkII AC reinterprets the original MC3500, which was built from 1968 to 1971 and was part of the sound system used at the Woodstock Open Air in 1969. After more than two years of development, a modern reinterpretation was created.

For Demanding Two-Channel Systems

As a tube monoblock, the MC3500 MkII AC is designed for one channel and is particularly suitable for high-quality two-channel audio systems. In a classic stereo setup, it works on a per-channel basis, allowing for clear separation of amplification and fitting well with carefully curated McIntosh systems.

Tube Technology with Modern Safeguards

The output stage operates with selected EL509S high-performance tubes, complemented by a fully balanced driver section. Power Guard Screen Grid Sensor™ monitors the output tubes and keeps them in a safe operating range if overloaded. Sentry Monitor™ additionally monitors the output current and switches off the amplifier if safe limits are exceeded.

Connections and Everyday Operation

Balanced and unbalanced inputs are available for integration into a Hi-Fi chain. Additionally, the MC3500 MkII AC features corresponding outputs for multi-amplifier configurations such as bi-amping or tri-amping. Power Control enables power on/off via compatible McIntosh components, while input mode and auto-off switches make basic operation directly accessible on the device.

Design with McIntosh Character

The front panel, crafted from machined aluminum with a bead-blasted finish and gold anodization, intentionally evokes the historic original. The large DualView™ VU meter displays the output power at the top and the amplifier's warm-up time at the bottom. Glass surfaces, an illuminated McIntosh logo, side handles, and the stainless steel chassis give the device a technical presence that is immediately visible in a rack or on sturdy Hi-Fi furniture.

Our Recommendation for Combination

The MC3500 MkII AC tube monoblocks pair excellently with the McIntosh C22 Mk V AC tube preamplifier. Combinations with turntables, CD players, music streamers, and matching loudspeakers are also possible and recommended.

Pros and Cons at a glance

Reasons to choose the MC3500 MkII AC:

• Modern reissue of a historically significant McIntosh tube amplifier
• Tube monoblock for high-quality two-channel systems
• Power Guard Screen Grid Sensor™ and Sentry Monitor™ as protection functions
• Balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs
• Striking McIntosh design with DualView™ VU meter

Things to know before buying:

• As a monoblock, one unit is needed per channel for stereo
• The device requires careful placement with adequate ventilation

Specifications

General

• Product Type: Tube Mono Power Amplifier / 1-Channel Tube Amplifier
• Area of Application: high-quality two-channel audio systems
• Number of Channels: 1
• Circuit Configuration: Unity Coupled
• Circuit Design: Vacuum Tube
• Output Type: Unity Coupled Output Transformer
• Dimensions W × H × D: 45.7 × 30 × 57.5 cm
• Weight: 54.9 kg
• Weight including shipping carton: 66.7 kg
• Manufacturer's Warranty: 3-year limited manufacturer's warranty

Audio

• Output Power: 350 Watts into 2, 4 or 8 Ohms
• Rated Power Band: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Dynamic Headroom: 2.4 dB
• Damping Factor: >25
• Frequency Response: +0, -0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz; +0, -3 dB from 10 Hz to 70 kHz
• Distortion: 0.3% maximum from 250 mW to rated power, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Further Distortion Specification: <0.20% at 1W, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 120 dB below rated output power
• Input Sensitivity: 3.8 V balanced; 1.9 V unbalanced
• Voltage Gain: 2 Ohms: 23 dB; 4 Ohms: 26 dB; 8 Ohms: 29 dB
• Input Impedance: 22 kOhms balanced/unbalanced

Tube Complement

• Output Tubes: 8 × EL509S
• Driver Tubes: 3 × 12AX7A and 1 × 12AT7
• Driver Section: fully balanced

Features and Operation

• Power Guard Screen Grid Sensor™: yes
• Sentry Monitor™: yes
• DualView™ VU Meter: yes
• Display: upper scale for output power in watts/decibels, lower scale for warm-up time
• Meter Light Switch: yes
• Remote Power Control: yes
• Input Mode Switch: switch between balanced and unbalanced input
• Auto Off: activatable/deactivatable
• Illumination: Direct LED
• Front Panel: machined aluminum with handles
• Chassis: polished stainless steel
• Tube Protection: stainless steel wire cage with black powder coating

Setup and Notes

• Required clearance above: at least 48.3 cm
• Required clearance front, back, and sides: at least 15.2 cm each
• Required clearance below: at least 2.2 cm
• Transport Protection: foam insert around the tubes must be removed before connecting the power cable.
• Tube Cover: must be reinstalled for safe operation.

Awards

• Power Amplifier of the Year 2023
• Stereo Sound Grand Prix 2022

Scope of Delivery

• McIntosh MC3500 MKII AC
• Tube Cover
• Power Cable
• McIntosh Key for Speaker Terminals
• Documents

• Broschüre
• Anleitung