Maximum Control and Configurability.
The C12000 Preamplifier is the next generation of our acclaimed two-chassis preamplifier design. The two-chassis design allows the audio section to be completely separated from the control and power sections. The absolute isolation of a preamplifier’s two main functions – control and sound – is achieved by this unusual but effective design. Splitting these primary purposes of a preamplifier up into separate chassis will deliver the purest sound reproduction possible.
The home audio stereo system comprised of the C12000 and MC3500 Mk II “simply sounds natural. Listen to it and you’ll discover that you are listening to music — pure, simple, unadulterated music. It’s not ‘bright’ or ‘hard’ or ‘soft’ or ‘warm’ or ‘euphonic’… it’s just as you’d expect music to sound: natural.” Named Stereo Preamplifier and Power Amplifier of the Year 2023. – Australian Hi-Fi Magazine
BRAND: McIntosh
SERIES: C12000 2-Channel Solid State and Vacuum Tube Preamplifier
TYPE: Preamplifier
OVERVIEW
- The C12000 Preamplifier is the next generation of our acclaimed two-chassis preamplifier design. This unusual but effective design allows the audio section to be completely separated from the control and power section, delivering the purest sound reproduction possible.
- Inside each the C12000C Controller and C12000ST Preamplifier, the left and right channels are electrically and mechanically isolated from each other to allow for true dual mono operation.
- Includes 12 analog inputs: six balanced, four unbalanced, and two unbalanced phono inputs. The phono inputs are no longer set up as dedicated for Moving Coil or Moving Magnet cartridges; instead, both are configurable as either Moving Coil or Moving Magnet with adjustable Capacitance and Resistance Loading, along with adjustable Gain.
- Offers both vacuum tube and solid-state output. Six vacuum tubes power the high-level preamplifier section with two 12AT7 tubes and one 12AX7A tube assigned to each the left and right channel. Solid-state output is via a discrete balanced op-amp. Phono stage utilizes four 12AX7A vacuum tubes, with two tubes used per channel in a fully balanced configuration that incorporates RIAA equalization.
- Four total outputs: one balanced vacuum tube; one balanced solid-state; one fixed unbalanced; and one programmable unbalanced (can be either vacuum tube or solid-state).
- Other features: High Drive headphone amplifier that has plenty of power and flexibility to drive a wide range of headphones. Power Control can automatically turn other connected McIntosh components on and off. Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected sources
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1949 – 2024: MCINTOSH CELEBRATES 75 YEARS OF AUDIO EXCELLENCE
Since our inception in 1949 under the visionary guidance of Frank McIntosh, we have been unwavering in our commitment to the art of sound reproduction. The year 2024 marks a historic milestone for McIntosh as we proudly celebrate our 75th Anniversary – a testament to our enduring passion for crafting audio experiences that transcend expectations.
THE C12000 75TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
In honor of this momentous occasion, we present the special C12000 75th Anniversary Edition. Each chassis boasts a distinctive dual anodized laser-engraved badge proudly displaying our 75th Anniversary logo on the top, while each handle is engraved with a graceful “75 years” inscription. This exclusive edition is a celebration of our relentless pursuit of excellence. All performance specifications, functionality, and dimensions of the anniversary edition are the same as the non-anniversary version.
HOW TO SECURE YOUR PIECE OF THIS SONIC LEGACY
When placing your order with your dealer in 2024, you must specify you want the C12000 75th Anniversary Edition. Otherwise you will receive the stock version that does not include the commemorative anniversary markings. Please note that the C12000 75th Anniversary Edition is limited to 75 units per country McIntosh is distributed in.
COMPLETE 75TH ANNIVERSARY PRODUCT FAMILY
Our 75th Anniversary product lineup extends beyond the C12000 encompassing the MC2.1KW Monoblock Amplifier, MC1.25KW Monoblock Amplifier, MA12000 Integrated Amplifier, and MCD12000 SACD/CD Player. These anniversary editions of these audio marvels stand as beacons of artistry and precision, embodying the very essence of McIntosh’s 75-year sonic odyssey.
With each, we invite you to join our passion for the profound impact of music, craftsmanship, and the transformative experience of listening. Let the C12000 and its companions elevate your auditory senses, inspiring you to explore new realms of sonic bliss.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Response:
+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz
+0, -3dB from 15Hz to 100kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion:
High Level: 0.005%; Phono: 0.05%
Maximum Output Voltage:
Balanced: 20 Vrms; Unbalanced: 10 Vrms
Signal to Noise Ratio:
High-Level: 107dB
Phono (Moving Coil): 79dB
Phono (Moving Magnet): 83dB
Inputs:
6 Balanced
4 Unbalanced
2 Phono (configurable as either
Moving Coil or Moving Magnet)
Outputs:
1 Balanced (Solid State)
1 Balanced (Vacuum Tube)
1 Unbalanced (Fixed)
1 Unbalanced (configurable as either
Solid State or Vacuum Tube)
Overall Dimensions (W x H x D):
Each module: 17.5” (44.45cm) x 6”
(15.24cm) x 18” (45.7cm)
Weight:
C12000C: 27 lbs (12.3 kg) net,
42 lbs (19.5 kg) in shipping carton
C12000ST: 25 lbs (11.3 kg) net,
40 lbs (17.7 kg) in shipping carton
