McIntosh dealer discount ?

I got 15% off on my C2700 and MAC 275 i bought a couple years ago, this is dealer dependent and if they want the sale or not IMO. But i would ask for a discount and go somewhere else if they don't give one, lots of Mac dealer out there. 

It's not a crime to ask for a discount, but don't expect many dealers to give you a discount. Dealers do not want to be known to give a discount, and it's partially because of dealer agreements that they do not and cannot publish pricing at less than retail. Most of the time they are not going to just provide a discounted price to some random dude on the phone, and especially not in writing on the internet. This is not talking about demo units or any other uncommon variable. Pressed for detail about their discounts and the dealer, or proof, and you'll probably not get a lot of facts. If you have a local shop, build a relationship or use some of the trade-in programs... possibly. Like any other high end purchase the variables are endless.

When you say 'retire' your McIntosh preamp - what do you mean?

Would you 'trade it in'?

I agree with @dean_palmer - McIntosh has an agreement with their dealers (as does many manufacturers).  Having a relationship with a local dealer and including 'trading in' your current McIntosh preamp may enable the dealer to present you a deal you find acceptable.

Several years ago local dealer offered me an opportunity to buy used speakers - a model they know I liked and wasn't willing to buy new.  They had a long term customer who bought them and after a year wanted to buy a new set of his previous brand of speakers.  I think they sold me the speakers for what they gave the person as a trade in value so it would allow them to sell the new speakers and provide a deal for me.

The numbers that I have received on a trade are ridiculous. I can sell them out right for twice that. The dealers then will use the full retail value to give me a discount based on the trade-in, which is nothing.  Bottom line trade-in is a joke