McIntosh reimagines iconic amp used at Woodstock.

McIntosh has launched a new version of an iconic amplifier (the MC3500), which was originally used to power the sound system for Woodstock* '69, amongst other formative music events.

The new MC3500 Vacuum Tube Amplifier Mk II has been reimagined by McIntosh’s expert team of engineers and designers to include modern upgrades that showcase the company’s commitment to technology, innovation and continual development.

All the power you will ever need

Benefiting from 350 watts of McIntosh power, the MC3500 Vacuum Tube Amplifier Mk II uses the company’s proprietary Unity Coupled Circuit™ output transformer (along with original), allowing the full 350 watts to be safely delivered to virtually any speaker.

Fully balanced driver section

The fully balanced driver section utilises three 12AX7A valves and one 12AT7, while the output is powered by eight EL509S high-power output valves, specifically chosen due to the similarity to the 6LQ6 ‘sweep tubes’ found in the original MC3500. The valves are located behind the power and output transformers, and are covered by a 12-gauge stainless steel wire cage.

The MC3500 Mk II has handles just like the original, but they have more ergonomic design that are friendlier on your hands when moving this 121 lb. (54.9 kg) heavyweight. The base of the chassis is stainless steel polished to a mirror finish. The front panel is machined aluminum with a bead blast finish and gold anodizing that emulates the look and finish of the original MC3500. A clear glass insert covers the meter; a black glass insert at the bottom houses the knobs and illuminated lettering.

As an homage to the look of the original MC3500, the Mk II features two U-shaped siderails that wrap around the top, back, and bottom of each side. Many of original MC3500s were used on the road a lot and these siderails provided a lot of strength and durability. It is a very unique design element that we wanted to duplicate in the MC3500 Mk II. There were also four black rubber bumpers on the back of the rails that allowed the amp to be temporarily stood upright while setting up for shows; the bumpers were big enough to prevent any parts sticking off the back of the amplifier from scraping against the floor and being damaged. These bumpers have also been replicated on the MC3500 Mk II.

McIntosh President Charlie Randall said,"At the 50th anniversary of Woodstock in 2019, there was a lot of buzz resurfacing about the McIntosh sound system. This enthusiasm was infectious and inspired me to get our engineering team together to redesign the amp that has obviously resonated with music fans as being a historically significant piece of audio gear.

“After over two years, we are really proud of the result. The MC3500 Mk II takes its inspiration from the original 1968-71 MC3500 and incorporates all the knowledge we have gained surrounding vacuum tube amplifier design since the 1960s.