MCINTOSH C55

The McIntosh C55 is a reference solid-state preamplifier designed to deliver exceptional audio performance to the most demanding enthusiasts. With a wide range of analog and digital inputs, an 8-band equalizer and an updated digital section with DSD DAC converter, it guarantees flexibility, sonic accuracy and construction quality at the highest levels. The C55 is the ideal choice for those who want a complete and customizable listening experience.

With its 16 inputs (9 analog and 7 digital), the C55 becomes the nerve center of your audio universe. The analog inputs include 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced connections, along with 2 phono inputs configurable for moving coil (Moving Coil) or moving magnet (Moving Magnet) cartridges to connect your turntables.

The digital section is housed in the McIntosh DA2 digital audio module and is powered by an audiophile-quality, 32-bit, balanced, 8-channel digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The DA2 offers a wide range of connections, including an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) input, which brings the sound of your TV to a new era through your home stereo system. Dolby® and DTS® multi-channel audio formats are expertly converted into exceptional two-channel audio for an immersive listening experience.

In addition to the included remote control or front panel controls, the C55 can be connected to your home network, unlocking the control options offered by the convenient McIntosh Connect app (available April 2024). Designed for Android and Apple devices, the Connect app can be used to control key functions of the C55, including volume, input and output selection.

Highlights
8-band analog EQ to precisely tune the frequency response of your music, creating a customized audio experience (the EQ can be bypassed if desired)
High-speed headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) technology adds an extra dimension to headphone listening
Home Theater PassThru for seamless integration into your home theater
Roon Tested certification from Roon Labs
Power Control allows you to easily turn other connected McIntosh components on and off
Data ports can send remote control commands to connected McIntosh sources
Electromagnetic input switching for reliable, quiet, distortion-free switching
Level trim adjustment to match analog input levels to avoid abrupt changes in volume levels
Precision-balanced, digitally controlled attenuation system for accurate volume control with 0.1dB accuracy
Fully regulated power supplies and a special R-core power transformer for stable operation and silent
Eco-friendly power management system that turns off the unit after 30 minutes of inactivity (can be disabled).

Technical specifications
16 re-assignable inputs: 9 analog and 7 digital
3 balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA stereo outputs, active simultaneously
8-band analog equalizer with ±12 dB adjustment
MM/MC phono stage with load and gain adjustments
DAC converter with native support for DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512
PCM resolution up to 32 bit/384 kHz and DXD up to 384 kHz
Digital inputs: HDMI (ARC/CEC), MCT DIN, asynchronous USB, 2 coaxial S/PDIF, 2 optical Toslink
Removable and upgradeable DA2 digital module
Headphone amplifier with HXD® technology
Home Theater PassThru function
Remote control via Ethernet network and McIntosh Connect app
Automatic firmware updates
Power supply with R-Core transformer silent
Balanced analog volume attenuator with 0.1 dB accuracy
Electromagnetic source selector without distortion
Output VU-Meter
Connections RS232, Data/Power Control, IR
Remote control included
Dimensions (W x H x D): 445 x 194 x 419 mm
Weight: 12.5 kg