MCINTOSH C49

High-End Stereo Preamplifier

The C49 features the DA1 Digital Audio Module, which can be replaced with new modules as digital audio technologies evolve. This allows you to keep the C49 up to date with digital music formats for years to come. It offers a variety of inputs: for analog, it has 2 balanced and 3 unbalanced inputs, along with 2 phono inputs (1 for Moving Coil and 1 for Moving Magnet) for connecting turntables. On the digital side, it has 6 inputs housed in the DA1 module: 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, and 1 proprietary MCT (for use with the MCT series SACD/CD transports). The DA1 is powered by an 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) used in Quad Balanced mode, supporting up to DSD256 and DXD 384kHz for high-resolution audio playback.

For connection to your amplifier and the rest of your home audio system, the C49 has 2 balanced variable outputs, 2 unbalanced variable outputs, and 1 unbalanced fixed output. The outputs are designed for easy use when bi-amping speakers, ensuring that neither high nor low frequencies are accidentally turned off. Audio sources can be fine-tuned via bass and treble tone controls. The C49 integrates easily into your home theater system via the Home Theater Pass Through. Power Control ports allow for easy on/off of other connected McIntosh components, while Data Ports can send remote control commands to source components. It also includes a High Drive headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®).

The C49 comes with classic McIntosh design elements like a black glass front panel, knobs, an illuminated logo, and aluminum end caps. It can be paired with various amplifiers, turntables, CD players, tuners, speakers, power controllers, and room correction devices to create a complete audio system.

Technical 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 Voltage Out (Balanced / Unbalanced): 16V RMS / 8V RMS
• Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced): 900mV / 450mV
• Sensitivity Phono (Moving Coil): 0.45mV
• Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet): 4.5mV
• Signal to Noise Ratio (High Level): 100dB
• Signal to Noise Ratio (Moving Coil): 80dB
• Signal to Noise Ratio (Moving Magnet): 82dB
• Voltage Gain (High Level): 15dB
• Voltage Gain (Moving Coil): 60dB
• Voltage Gain (Moving Magnet): 40dB
• Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced): 44K ohm, 22K ohm
• Unit Dimensions (W x H x D): 17.5" (44.45cm) x 6" (15.2cm) x 18" (45.72cm)
• Unit Weight: 23 lbs (10.4 kg)