McIntosh MAC 1500 Receiver Repair & Restoration Service
Professional McIntosh MAC 1500 repair, restoration, and service by Tek Media Group. Expert hybrid tube/solid-state restoration, capacitor replacement, tube service, and calibration for this landmark 1965 receiver. Serving Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, and Southern California audiophiles for 33 years.
⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING
HIGH VOLTAGE HAZARD: Always disconnect the unit from power before working internally. The McIntosh MAC 1500 contains extremely high voltages in the tube tuner section that can be lethal. Discharge all large capacitors before handling. The tube section operates at over 300 volts.
This is a hybrid unit with both tube and solid-state circuits. If you are not experienced with tube electronics repair, contact a professional technician immediately.
🔧 Important Hybrid Design Note
The MAC 1500 combines a tube-based FM/AM tuner with a solid-state amplifier section - a unique hybrid design. Always use a variac (variable transformer) for initial power-up after repairs. Exercise extreme caution around both the high-voltage tube section and the power supply areas. Tube warm-up time is required before full operation.
McIntosh MAC 1500 Receiver Overview
The McIntosh MAC 1500 is a groundbreaking hybrid receiver introduced in 1965 as McIntosh's first solid-state receiver, though it retains a tube-based tuner section. This unique combination represents a transitional milestone in McIntosh's evolution from tube to solid-state technology.
The MAC 1500 features a tube-based FM/AM tuner section for superior reception characteristics combined with a solid-state amplifier delivering 30 watts per channel. It incorporates McIntosh's patented Unity Coupled output circuit and maintains the classic McIntosh build quality and sound signature.
Historical Significance: As McIntosh's first venture into solid-state amplification while maintaining tube tuner technology, the MAC 1500 represents a fascinating hybrid design that combines the best characteristics of both technologies. This makes restoration particularly challenging but rewarding.
Technical Specifications
Amplifier Section
Solid-state, 30 watts per channel into 8 ohms
Tuner Section
Tube-based FM/AM tuner (6 tubes)
Year Introduced
1965 (Production: 1965-1967)
Output Circuit
McIntosh Unity Coupled Circuit
Output Devices
Germanium transistors
Frequency Response
20Hz - 20kHz ±1dB
🔧 Professional McIntosh MAC 1500 Repair & Restoration Service
Tek Media Group specializes in McIntosh MAC 1500 hybrid receiver restoration with 33 years of expertise in both tube and solid-state electronics. Our facility in the Los Angeles area is equipped with specialized tube testing equipment, high-voltage service tools, and vintage audio restoration expertise.
Our Comprehensive MAC 1500 Restoration Services Include:
✓ Complete Capacitor Replacement
All electrolytic and paper capacitors replaced with premium audio-grade components. High-voltage tube-rated capacitors (450V+) for tuner section.
✓ Professional Tube Testing & Replacement
Complete 6-tube complement tested on calibrated tube tester. Quality NOS or tested vintage tubes installed. Tube socket cleaning and restoration.
✓ Germanium Transistor Service
Output transistor testing and replacement. Sourcing of original-type germanium devices or proper silicon equivalents. Precise bias adjustment.
✓ Power Supply Restoration
Complete power supply overhaul for both tube B+ (300-450V) and solid-state sections. Rectifier replacement and voltage regulation service.
✓ Precision Calibration & Alignment
DC offset adjustment, bias calibration, FM/AM tuner alignment with specialized RF test equipment. All adjustments per original specifications.
✓ Cosmetic Restoration Available
Cabinet refinishing, glass panel restoration, meter lamp replacement, control cleaning, and aesthetic restoration to showroom condition.
Service Details & Pricing
Note: Pricing varies based on unit condition and parts availability (especially germanium transistors). All estimates include parts, labor, and testing. Rush service available for additional fee.
Why Choose Tek Media Group for Your MAC 1500?
- Hybrid Expertise: Specialized knowledge of both tube and solid-state electronics
- Proper Test Equipment: Calibrated tube testers, high-voltage probes, RF signal generators
- NOS Parts Inventory: Stock of vintage germanium transistors and quality replacement tubes
- Original Documentation: Complete service manuals and schematics for proper restoration
- 33 Years Experience: Extensive history with McIntosh equipment since 1993
- Comprehensive Warranty: All work guaranteed with detailed warranty coverage
- Local Service: Convenient Los Angeles/Burbank location with pickup available
- Transparent Process: Detailed documentation with before/after photos and testing results
What Our Customers Say
"Tek Media Group brought my father's MAC 1500 back to life. The hybrid design intimidated other shops, but they handled it expertly. The restored unit sounds incredible and looks showroom new. Worth every penny!"
"Complete professional restoration with detailed documentation. They explained every step and sourced the correct germanium transistors. The MAC 1500 now performs better than when it was new."
Our Restoration Process
- Initial Consultation: Free phone consultation to discuss your unit's condition and needs
- Detailed Evaluation: Complete diagnostic testing with written estimate
- Approval & Parts Ordering: Customer approval before work begins, all parts sourced
- Restoration Work: Systematic restoration following proven procedures
- Testing & Burn-In: Extended testing period to ensure reliability
- Calibration & Alignment: Precision adjustments to factory specifications
- Documentation & Delivery: Detailed service report with before/after test results
- Warranty Support: Comprehensive warranty with ongoing support
Shipping Your MAC 1500 to Our Facility
We accept McIntosh equipment from across the United States. Proper packaging is critical for these vintage units:
- Remove tubes: Pack tubes separately in individual boxes with padding
- Double boxing: Use inner and outer boxes with 3-4 inches of cushioning
- Insurance: Insure for full replacement value
- Documentation: Include detailed description of issues and contact information
Contact us for detailed packing instructions and recommended shipping carriers.
