C55 2-Channel Preamplifier

Ideal for 2-Channel Audio Systems

The C55 Preamplifier is a pinnacle of sonic excellence designed for audiophiles, music enthusiasts, and dedicated McIntosh fans alike. As a torchbearer of innovation, it takes the baton from its predecessor, the multi award-winning C53, and propels your home audio experience into new realms of audio nirvana. With precision and craftsmanship, the C55 proudly takes its place as a true industry leader.

INPUTS IN ABUNDANCE

With a staggering 16 inputs (9 analog and 7 digital), the C55 becomes the nerve center of your audio universe. Analog inputs include 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced connections, along with 2 phono inputs configurable 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.

“It has everything needed to make it the beating heart of any high quality music system. It stands out from the crowd, and is an irresistible blend of good looks and musical excellence.” Awarded 5 Stars.

The digital section is housed in our DA2 Digital Audio Module and is powered by an audiophile-grade Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). The DA2 offers an array of connections, including an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)1 input, ushering your TV sound into a new era through your home stereo system. Dolby® and DTS® multi-channel audio formats are expertly converted to exquisite two-channel audio for a captivating listening experience.

INNOVATIVE OUTPUTS FOR PERSONALIZED LISTENING

To connect the C55 to your power amplifier(s), there are 3 stereo sets of variable balanced and unbalanced outputs that offer advanced connection flexibility. All 3 sets of outputs can be active at the same time, and each can send the audio signal of the source component to 3 separate audio systems.

ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE FEATURES

– 8-band analog equalizer to fine-tune your music with precision, creating a personalized audio experience (the equalizer can be bypassed if desired).

– High Drive Headphone Amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) technology brings an added dimension to headphone listening.

– Home Theater PassThru for seamless integration into your home theater system.

– Has received Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs.

– Power Control lets you easily turn other connected McIntosh components on and off.

– Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.

– Electromagnetic Input Switching for reliable, noiseless, and distortion-free switching.

– Level Trim Adjustment for matching analog input levels to prevent abrupt changes in volume levels.

– Precision balanced, digitally controlled attenuator system for accurate volume control with 0.1dB accuracy.

– Fully regulated power supplies and a special R-core power transformer for stable, noise-free operation.

– Eco-friendly Power Management System that will turn the unit off after 30 minutes of inactivity (can be disabled).

Specifications

Electronic Specifications

• Number of Channels : 2
• Total Harmonic Distortion : 0.005%

Frequency Response :

• +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz
• +0, -3dB from 15Hz to 100kHz
• Maximum Volts Out (Balanced / Unbalanced) : 16V RMS / 8V RMS
• Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced) : 900mV / 450mV

Sensitivity (Phono) :

• Moving Coil: 0.45mV
• Moving Magnet: 4.5mV
• Signal To Noise Ratio (High Level) : 100dB

Signal To Noise Ratio (Phono) :

• Moving Coil : 80dB
• Moving Magnet : 82dB
• Voltage Gain (High Level) : 15dB

Voltage Gain (Phono) :

• Moving Coil : Selectable 40dB, 46dB, 52dB, 58dB, or 64dB
• Moving Magnet : Selectable 40dB, 46dB, 52dB, 58dB, or 64dB
• Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced) : 44K ohm, 22K ohm

Connectivity :

• Balanced Input : 3
• Unbalanced Input : 4
• Phono Input : 2 (each is configurable as either Moving Coil or Moving Magnet)
• Upgradeable Digital Audio Module : Yes: DA2
• Digital Coaxial Input : 2
• Digital Optical Input : 2
• Digital MCT Input : 1
• Digital USB Input : 1
• HDMI (ARC) Input : 1
• Balanced Variable Output : 3
• Unbalanced Variable Output : 3
• Headphone Output : 1/4″ High Drive with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)
• Input Level Match : Yes, +/- 6dB
• Home Theater PassThru : Yes
• Unbalanced Analog Connector Type : Premium gold-plated solid brass
• Service Port : 1
• Network Connections : 1

Control :

• Tone Controls : 8-band (each band adjustable ± 12dB )
• Tone Bypass and Input Assign : Yes
• RS232 Control Inputs : Yes
• Power Control Outputs : 1 Main, 4 Trigger
• Rear Panel Data Ports : 6
• Rear Panel IR Sensor Inputs : Yes

General Specifications :

• Multi-Chassis or Single : Single, two-layer
• Output Meters : Yes
• Vacuum Tube or Solid State : Solid State
• Power Consumption (On) : 75 Watts

Weights & Dimensions :

• Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) : 17.5″ (44.45cm) x 7.625″ (19.4cm) x 16.5″ (41.9cm)
• Unit Weight : 28 lbs (12.5 kg)
• Shipping Weight : 43.5 lbs (19.7 kg)