(March 14, 2024) McIntosh has unveiled its latest contributions to the audiophile world by introducing the C55 Solid State Preamplifier and the C2800 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier. These new offerings are designed to cater to the most refined audiophile tastes, blending cutting-edge technology with McIntosh's signature timeless aesthetic. Known for its iconic design elements, such as black glass front panels, illuminated logos, and the classic McIntosh blue watt meters, the C55 and C2800 are no exception, embodying these traditional styling cues that enthusiasts and collectors have come to cherish.
The C55 Solid State Preamplifier builds upon the company's older C53. It’s meticulously engineered to satisfy the auditory senses of enthusiasts and delight those who appreciate the brand's visual heritage. The C55 features the familiar illuminated McIntosh logo, set against a sleek black glass front panel, and although it eschews the traditional blue watt meters, it maintains the brand's luxurious design language with its precision knobs and brushed metal accents. An 8-band analog equalizer allows users to fine-tune their music's presence, though it can be bypassed to preserve the purity of an audio signal.
The C2800 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier stands as a testament to McIntosh's commitment to audio engineering, encapsulated within a chassis that pays homage to the brand's storied past. This model revives the enchanting glow of vacuum tubes visible through a glass top panel, a sight that evokes the warm, rich sound the preamp claims to produce. Coupled with the iconic McIntosh aesthetic, including the softly illuminated logo and controls that reflect the brand's attention to detail, the C2800 is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears. It features vacuum tube circuitry which significantly reduces noise and distortion to ensure a listening experience that's both transcendent and visually engaging.
Both the C55 and C2800 boast an impressive suite of shared features, including:
- 16 inputs (nine analog and seven digital) supporting a wide array of audio sources.
- Three sets of balanced and unbalanced outputs for connectivity to power amplifiers, allowing for bi-amping configurations and a tailored listening experience.
- The return of a Processor Loop feature for integrating external processors.
- A High Drive Headphone Amplifier with HXD technology for an immersive headphone experience.
- Home Theater PassThru for seamless integration into home theater systems.
- Roon Tested designation, ensuring compatibility with Roon Labs' software.
- Power Control and Data Ports for streamlined operation of connected McIntosh components.
Availability and Pricing:
The C55 Solid State Preamplifier and the C2800 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier are available through authorized McIntosh dealers starting March 2024, priced at $9000 USD each.
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