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Mcintosh

Mcintosh C-53 Audio Preamp

SKU: C-53

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Product Description

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 our current solid state integrated amplifiers, the C53 stereo preamplifier features an upgradeable digital audio module. But unlike our integrated amplifiers that use our DA1 Digital Audio Module, the C53 is the first to use our new, more advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.

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.

Tone controls include an 8-band analog equalizer; each band can be adjusted ± 12dB so you can fine tune your music just the way you like. Our High Drive Headphone Amplifier can power virtually any pair of headphones, while Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) can bring an added dimension to your music. Home Theater Pass Through lets the C53 be seamlessly integrated into your home theater system. Power Control ports let you easily turn other connected McIntosh components on and off, while the Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.

McIntosh Laboratory is a manufacturer of high-end audio equipment, including amplifiers, preamplifiers, receivers, and speakers. The company was founded in 1949 by Frank McIntosh, and is based in New York, USA.

McIntosh is known for its iconic design, featuring blue backlit watt meters on its amplifiers, and its commitment to quality, with all of its products built in the USA and tested by hand before leaving the factory.

McIntosh's amplifiers, such as the MC452 and MC312, are highly regarded for their power and sound quality, and their ability to drive a wide range of speakers. The company's preamplifiers, such as the C2700 and C53, are also highly regarded for their ability to deliver an extremely detailed and transparent sound.

McIntosh's receivers, such as the MX170 and MX123, are designed to provide a high-quality audio experience in a single unit, with support for a wide range of audio and video sources.

All orders are processed within 48 hours from date of order.

We offer Free Ground Shipping on all orders regardless of size.  

  • If you would like to receive your order quicker you can request Express shipping during Check-Out in the Comments section.  Additional charges will apply.
  • In-stock items are shipped from our Vancouver warehouse and will reach major Canadian cities in 5-7 business days.
  • Items not in stock will either ship from one of our manufacturer partners' warehouses or in rare cases first must be sent to Vancouver and then to you.  
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