BRAND: McIntosh

SERIES: C2800 2-Channel Vacuum Tube Preamplifier
TYPE: Preamplifier

OVERVIEW

  • 16 inputs: 7 analog, 2 phono, 7 digital
  • 4 Vacuum Tubes: (3) 12AX7A and (1) 12AT7
  • Dedicated Subwoofer output
  • Controllable by McIntosh Connect app
  • Includes Processor Loop
  • Supports 24-bit/192kHz and DSD512 files
  • Roon Tested
A MASTERPIECE OF ENGINEERING

The C2800 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier is a masterpiece of audio passion and engineering precision. Crafted for discerning audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike, performance has been woven into the very fabric of this audio treasure. The C2800 has proudly earned the McIntosh name.

At the heart of the C2800 lies methodically designed vacuum tube circuitry. Leveraging the latest designs to all but eliminate noise and distortion, the C2800 reduces them to minuscule levels. Its four vacuum tubes, or valves, deliver a listening experience that transcends expectations.

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INPUTS IN ABUNDANCE With its 9 analog and 7 digital inputs (16 total inputs), the C2800 will become the nucleus of your home audio system. There are 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced analog inputs, plus 2 phono inputs that can be configured for either Moving Coil or Moving Magnet phono cartridges to connect your turntable(s). Both phono inputs feature adjustable Gain in 6dB steps from 40dB to 64dB as well as RIAA equalization.

Our DA2 Digital Audio Module houses the 7 digital inputs and is powered by an audiophile-grade Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). The DA2 offers a variety of inputs, including an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)1 input that will give your TV sound new life when played through your home stereo system. Multi-channel audio formats from Dolby® and DTS® will be expertly converted to two-channel audio for an enthralling listening experience.

INNOVATIVE OUTPUTS FOR PERSONALIZED LISTENING

Offering advanced connection flexibility, there are 3 stereo sets of variable balanced and unbalanced outputs to connect the C2800 to your power amplifier(s). All sets of outputs can be active simultaneously, and each can send the audio signal from the source component to 3 separate audio systems.

C55 and C2800
NETWORK CONNECTED FOR CONTROL AND UPDATES
In addition to using the included remote control or the front panel controls, the C2800 can be connected to your network which will unlock control options offered through our complimentary Connect app (scheduled to be available April 2024). Designed for both Android and Apple devices, the Connect app can be used to control key functions of the C2800 including Volume control as well as Input and Output selection.
 

Select McIntosh source components3 that have a data cable connected to the C2800 will be partially controllable via the app’s Source Control feature. With Source Control, users will be able to control many of the source unit’s functions from the app, such as changing radio stations on a tuner, or playing a disc in a CD Player. Source Control will bring added convenience to setups that have a secondary system connected to one of the C2800’s outputs, such as an outdoor system where you will no longer be forced to go inside to control its basic functionality.

When connected to your network, the C2800 will also be able to receive periodic firmware updates. These firmware releases can add new features or provide important performance updates.

 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Number of Channel
2

Total Harmonic Distortion
0.08%

Signal to Noise Ratio
100dB

Maximum Volts Out (Balanced / Unbalanced)
16V RMS / 8V RMS

Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced)
900mV / 450mV

Voltage Gain (High Level)
15dB

Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced)
44K ohm, 22K ohm

Frequency Response
+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz
+0, -3dB from 15Hz to 100,000Hz

Overall Dimensions (W x H x D)
17.5″ (44.45cm) x 7.625″ (19.4cm) x 16.5″ (41.9cm)

Weight
28 lbs (12.5 kg)

OTHER PRODUCTS: PRODUCTS / SOURCES