McIntosh C53

2-Channel Solid State Preamplifier

Item #MCINTOSH:C53
McIntosh Item # C53

McIntosh C53

2-Channel Solid State Preamplifier

$8,500.00
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Overview

The C53 Preamplifier is ready to serve in your home audio system for many years – even decades – all while delivering unmatched audio quality. Following the digital audio precedent set in McIntosh's current solid state integrated amplifiers, the C53 stereo preamplifier features an upgradeable digital audio module. But unlike their integrated amplifiers that use our DA1 Digital Audio Module, the C53 is the first to use their new, more advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.

Product only available for in-store purchase and not available for online sale.

The DA2 builds upon the DA1 with an expanded set of capabilities. In addition to having all the same connections as the DA1 (2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB and 1 proprietary MCT for use with our MCT series of SACD/CD Transports), a new audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)1 connection is included on the DA2. This allows it to be connected to TVs with a compatible HDMI (ARC) output to bring your TV sound to a new level of audio performance by listening to it through your home stereo system. Popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby and DTS are supported and will be expertly converted to 2-channel audio for proper playback through the C53. When CEC communication is enabled in both the C53 and your TV, the C53 remote can control the TV’s power and volume.

Additionally, the DA2’s USB input can support native playback of up to DSD512, surpassing the DSD256 limit of the DA1. This increased DSD playback support is thanks to the next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that powers the DA2. This audiophile-grade DAC is highlighted by both an improved dynamic range and total harmonic distortion compared to the DA1. The USB input also supports DXD up to 384kHz. The coax and optical inputs can decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz for high resolution audio playback. Rounding out the DA2 is an MCT input that offers a secure, custom DSD connection for playback of the high definition audio found on SACDs when paired with our MCT series of SACD/CD Transports to produce the best possible sound quality from your SACD collection.

In addition to the 7 digital inputs found in the DA2 module, the C53 also has 9 analog inputs, giving it a nearly inexhaustible number of 16 total inputs for connecting all your music sources. The analog inputs consist of 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced connections, plus 1 Moving Coil and 1 Moving Magnet phono inputs for plugging in your trusted turntable. Outputs include 3 variable balanced and unbalanced connections along with 1 fixed unbalanced connection.

All this audio technology is packaged inside the C53’s classic McIntosh design featuring a black glass front panel backlit by direct LED lighting, blue meters, rotary knobs, an illuminated logo and aluminum end caps. An attractive polished stainless steel chassis finishes the distinguished look. It can be paired with an assortment of amplifiers, CD players, turntables, tuners, media streamers, room correction devices and speakers to complete your home audio system.

Details & Specs
  • Frequency Response: +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz, +0, -3.0dB from 15Hz to 100kHz
  • Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.005% maximum from 20Hz to 20kHz
  • Signal to Noise Ratio (High Level): 100dB
  • Digital Inputs: 2 Coax, 2 Optical, 1 HDMI (ARC), 1 USB, 1 MCT
  • Analog Inputs: 3 Balanced, 4 Unbalanced, 1 Moving Coil, 1 Moving Magnet
  • Maximum Voltage Output: Balanced: 16 Vrms / Unbalanced: 8 Vrms
More Information
UPC 842548108882
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.005% maximum from 20Hz to 20kHz
Signal To Noise Ratio 100dB
Frequency Response +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz
+0, -3.0dB from 15Hz to 100kHz
Inputs 3 Balanced, 4 Unbalanced, 1 Moving Coil, 1 Moving Magnet, 2 Coax, 2 Optical, 1 HDMI (ARC), 1 USB, 1 MCT
Gain Voltage Gain (Moving Coil) 60dB
Voltage Gain (High Level) 15dB Voltage Gain
(Moving Magnet) 40dB
Max Power Consumption 30 watts
Warranty 3 year limited warranty
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