Mcintosh C38 Preamplifier - Full Featured Including Phono Stage

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Hailing from the 1990's this full featured preamp featuring a timeless McIntosh design and was recently refreshed by our professional technical staff. 

Loaded with features including phono inputs and balanced outputs for the best possible connection to your amp.

The C38 is also capable of remote control using the McIntosh HR38 remote controller - *Please note this remote is not included and also not available separately (we have no spares to offer).

In our lab it received new bulbs and service in order to meet the original McIntosh specifications.

We also have a fresh and clean original manual to go along with your purchase.

Click below to add our recommended matching cables from Kimber Kable, all brand new as SkyFi is an official Kimber dealer.

Kimber Kable - RCA Interconnects

Kimber Kable - XLR Interconnects

Kimber Kable - Phono Interconnects

More from McIntosh:

There are eight pairs of high level inputs to accommodate all the traditional program sources as well as the most recent new sources. A pair of low level inputs is also provided that will accept signals from a moving magnet phono cartridge in a record player. Digital Logic integrated circuits drive Electromagnetic Switches on all inputs and operating functions for the most reliable and distortion free switching available.

Separate RECORD and LISTEN circuits allow recording from one source while listening to another. A continuously variable Active Loudness Control allows loudness compensation to be selected for any setting of the volume control. The Loudness Control circuit elements are removed from the circuit path when the control is in the flat or fully counterclockwise position.

Bass and Treble tone controls provide 12dB of boost or cut. At the center "Flat Response" or detent position of the tone controls, all tone control circuit elements are removed from the signal path.

Two Signal Processor loops are provided. One is for Listen signals and one is for Record signals. Power supply voltage regulator circuits maintain stable operation even though the AC power line may vary. Double shielding of the power transformer completely isolates it from the audio circuits. This eliminates the need for a clumsy outboard power transformer used by some less sophisticated designs.

Front panel pushbuttons control two switched outputs as well as two pairs of speakers when an optional SCR3 switching relay is added.

The Mcintosh C38 "Classic Glass" front panel has all control, switch and pushbutton nomenclature illuminated.

McIntosh C38 Owner's Manual

McIntosh C38 Sales Brochure

The SkyFi Testing Process for Preamplifiers:
We start with a visual inspection of all internal components to make sure there are no signs of stress or aging. Capacitors are checked for telltale sings of bulging or leaking, resistors are checked for signs of overheating or cracking, and transistors are checked for signs of stress or damage. Special attention is paid to the power supply which is the most common source of failure for preamps. We then power up the unit and run a simple 1k sine wave while monitoring the low voltage output on an oscilloscope for signs of distortion or noise to get a baseline.

At this point we will lubricate and clean all switches and potentiometers (that are not sealed) with a high quality contact cleaner, and then re-test all functions for any signs of noise or scratching.

Final testing involves putting actual music through the preamplifier We have learned over time that some issues are only noticeable to a trained ear while listening to a familiar source material. Our test bench has reference vintage KEF speakers that we are super familiar with which will quickly reveal any discrepancies. Some preamps will then move into the listening room where they will be tested with our in-house reference system.