MCINTOSH C49

Used. In good condition. Shows some minor signs of wear. Comes with remote control, manual, and original packaging.

The McIntosh C49 redefines the concept of a high-end preamplifier by combining the historic legacy of the American brand with advanced digital solutions, designed to meet the needs of discerning audiophiles who seek absolute control and maximum flexibility within their reference audio system.

Its architecture features fully separate and independent analog and digital sections, each with dedicated power supplies to prevent interference and preserve signal purity. The DA1 digital module, Roon Tested certified and designed to be replaceable over time, integrates an 8-channel Quad Balanced DAC capable of natively handling DSD64, DSD128, DXD up to 384 kHz, and PCM at 32-bit/384 kHz, ensuring compatibility with both current and future high-resolution formats. The proprietary MCT DIN connection allows direct reception of CD and SACD DSD signals, maintaining the original content’s integrity without intermediate conversions.

Operational versatility is expressed through fully reassignable inputs that can be used simultaneously, allowing a tailored configuration for each source. The built-in phono stage, compatible with MC and MM cartridges, delivers reference-level performance for vinyl enthusiasts, while the asynchronous USB, coaxial, and optical inputs cater to modern digital sources. The high-current headphone amplifier incorporates the proprietary Headphone Crossfeed Director technology, recreating a more natural speaker-like soundstage and reducing listening fatigue during extended sessions.

The Home Theatre PassThru function enables seamless integration into multichannel systems while preserving stereo fidelity. Connections include two balanced variable outputs, two unbalanced variable outputs, and one fixed unbalanced output, facilitating bi-amping setups without the risk of unintentionally disabling certain frequency ranges. Excludable bass and treble tone controls allow further customization of the listening experience.

RS232, Data, Power Control, and IR ports ensure full integration into advanced home automation systems, enabling coordinated power on/off of connected components and remote control of compatible sources.

Built with 10.4 kg of solid American craftsmanship, the construction reflects over seventy years of experience in high-end audio. The black glass front panel, metal knobs, illuminated logo, and aluminum side panels highlight the iconic McIntosh aesthetic, while the carefully selected internal components ensure long-term reliability and consistent performance. The included remote completes a system designed to deliver an engaging, precise listening experience and remain ready for future digital audio technologies.

Technical specifications:

• 8-channel Quad Balanced DAC; native DSD64 and DSD128 support; PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz; DXD 352.8 kHz and 384 kHz
• Built-in phono stage for MC and MM cartridges
• High-power headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)
• Analog connectivity: 2x balanced XLR inputs; 3x RCA single-ended inputs; phono inputs 1x MC RCA and 1x MM RCA; 2x balanced XLR outputs and 2x RCA single-ended outputs
• Digital connectivity: replaceable DA1 module; 1x asynchronous USB; 1x proprietary McIntosh MCT DIN; 2x S/PDIF coaxial RCA; 2x Toslink optical; Roon Tested certified
• Controls and functions: fully reassignable inputs; excludable tone controls; Home Theatre PassThru; RS232, Data, Power Control, IR ports; remote included
• Construction: high-rigidity chassis with black glass front, selected components, and iconic McIntosh design
• Dimensions: 445 x 152 x 457 mm (W x H x D)
• Weight: 10.4 kg