Over fifty years ago, world-renowned artists took the stage in upstate New York for what ultimately became one of the more integral days in music history. Now, decades later, McIntosh Labs is rehashing their own personal stint at Woodstock with the reimagining of their world-renowned amplifier that powered the free concert. Introducing the modernized MC3500 amplifier, the New York-based audio legends‘ 21st-century take on a classic.
Made capable for the largest of events, the 350-watt, monoblock 1-channel MC3500 MKII amplifier boasts a whopping eight ELS590 high-power output vacuum tubes, which offer many of the robust qualities similar to that of the QLQ6 tubes featured on the original 1968-71 model. They are accompanied by the revered brand’s trademark Power Guard Screen Grid Sensor, implemented for the sake of preventing any premature wear done to the vacuum tubes. For bolstered precaution, their signature Sentry Monitor constantly takes note of the output and powers off the amplifier in case of surpassing safety limits. As one would imagine, the amplifier offers both balanced and unbalanced input options when connecting to your home audio system, or whatever else you look to use it for. Above all else, it is a beautifully-crafted piece of equipment, featuring a machined aluminum front panel and topped off with a smooth bead blasted finish and gold anodizing.
As it stands, McIntosh Labs looks to begin shipping the amplifier starting in December at the price of $15,000. Those interested in the MC3500 Vacuum Tube Amplifier Mk II can get more information from their local retailers or from the brand itself.
