McIntosh C55
McIntosh C55 stereo preamplifier with integrated DAC, featuring two configurable phono inputs and a broad range of analogue and digital inputs.
Description
The C55 is a high-end stereo preamplifier from McIntosh, designed to centralise all the sources of a home audio system. It brings together 16 inputs in total, split between analogue and digital connections, making it the essential hub between sources and the power amplifier(s).
On the analogue side, the C55 offers 3 balanced inputs, 4 unbalanced inputs and 2 phono inputs compatible with moving coil or moving magnet cartridges, with gain adjustable in 6 dB steps from 40 to 64 dB and built-in RIAA equalisation: allowing precise level adjustment depending on the cartridge used. The digital section is built around the DA2 module, equipped with a quadruple balanced 8-channel 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter, complemented by 2 coaxial inputs, 2 optical inputs, 1 USB input accepting DSD512 and DXD 384 kHz, and 1 MCT input dedicated to secure connection with SACD/CD transports from the MCT series. An HDMI ARC input also allows sound from a television to be brought in, with conversion of Dolby and DTS multichannel formats to stereo. With total harmonic distortion of 0.005%, a signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB and an extended frequency response of 15 Hz to 100 kHz (0/-3 dB), the unit aims for precise, quiet reproduction. The Processor Loop, absent from previous generations, allows an external signal processor, room correction unit or dynamic range expander to be inserted without repositioning the preamplifier within the chain.
This preamplifier is aimed at audiophiles with a demanding multi-source system, combining a turntable, high-resolution digital sources and possibly a television, and looking for an upgradeable platform thanks to a replaceable digital module and firmware updates.
Technical specifications
| THD | 0.005 % |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz (0/-0.5 dB) and 15 Hz to 100 kHz (0/-3 dB) |
| Output voltage | 16 V RMS (balanced) and 8 V RMS (unbalanced) |
| Phono input sensitivity | 4.5 mV |
| Balanced input sensitivity | 900 mV |
| Unbalanced input sensitivity | 450 mV |
| Gain | 15 dB |
| Balanced input impedance | 44 kOhms |
| Unbalanced input impedance | 22 kOhms |
| Signal to noise ratio | 100 dB |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 444.45 x 194 x 419 mm |
| Weight | 12.5 kg |
What to check before buying used
On this preamplifier, the phono inputs deserve particular attention: check that the gain, adjustable in 6 dB steps, and the RIAA equalisation work correctly on both MM/MC inputs. Also test all the digital inputs on the DA2 module, in particular the USB and MCT inputs, as well as HDMI ARC switching. Checking the switching relays and XLR/RCA connectors in use ensures there is no crackling or dropouts.
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