MCINTOSH C55

Reference Tube Preamplifier, McIntosh's Latest Generation Single-Chassis Flagship

The C55 preamplifier represents the pinnacle of sonic excellence. A standard-bearer of innovation, it builds on the legacy of its predecessor, the award-winning C53, and elevates the home audio experience to new heights of sonic perfection. With precision and masterful craftsmanship, the C55 stands out as a true industry leader.

With 16 inputs (9 analog and 7 digital), the C55 becomes the centerpiece of your audio universe. The analog inputs include 3 balanced connections, 4 unbalanced, and 2 phono inputs configurable for both Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges, enabling the connection of one or more turntables. Both phono inputs offer adjustable gain in 6dB increments, ranging from 40dB to 64dB, along with RIAA equalization.

The digital section is housed in our DA2 Digital Audio Module, powered by a high-performance Quad Balanced 32-bit, 8-channel DAC. The DA2 module provides a variety of connections, including a dedicated HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) input exclusively for audio, enhancing your TV sound through the home stereo system. Dolby® and DTS® multichannel audio formats are seamlessly converted to two-channel audio for an immersive listening experience.

The remaining 6 digital inputs on the DA2 include 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, and 1 MCT. The USB input supports DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz files, while the coaxial and optical inputs decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz for high-resolution audio playback. For optimal sound quality from high-definition SACD audio, the MCT input offers a secure, custom DSD connection when paired with our MCT series of SACD/CD transports. Furthermore, the DA2 module is fully upgradeable, allowing replacement with future modules as digital technologies evolve.

To connect the C55 to your power amplifier, it offers 3 variable stereo outputs, both balanced and unbalanced, providing great connection flexibility. All three outputs can be active simultaneously, sending the source audio signal to 3 separate audio systems.

The Main and Output 1 outputs can be used for bi-amping a single speaker system via built-in high-pass and low-pass adjustable filters. In this configuration, the high-pass outputs can connect to a tube amplifier, while the low-pass outputs connect to a solid-state amplifier. The adjustable crossover allows the amplifiers' performance to be optimized to the speakers’ specifications and listening preferences. Additionally, Output 1 offers a trim level control to balance the volume of two different amplifiers during bi-amping.

Output 2 can be configured as mono or stereo, sending the audio signal to a stereo system in another room, a mono subwoofer, or two separate stereo subwoofers.

The Processor Loop returns with the C55, a feature absent in recent McIntosh preamplifier generations. The Processor Loop allows an external signal processor (like our MQ112 Environmental Equalizer or MEN220 Room Correction System) or dynamic range expanders to be inserted without being placed between the preamplifier and power amplifiers. This configuration is generally more convenient and can improve performance.

In addition to the included remote control and front-panel controls, the C55 can connect to your network to unlock control options via the free McIntosh Connect app, available for Android and Apple devices. The app allows control of key C55 functions, such as volume and input/output selection.

Some McIntosh source components connected to the C55 via data cables can also be partially controlled through the app’s Source Control feature, such as changing radio stations on a tuner or playing a disc on a CD player. Furthermore, adding the C55 to your network enables periodic firmware updates that introduce new features or performance enhancements.

• 8-band analog equalizer for precise sound customization (bypassable if desired).
• High Drive headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) for a more immersive headphone listening experience.
• Home Theater PassThru for seamless integration into a home theater system.
• Designated as Roon Tested by Roon Labs.
• Power control for easy on/off operation of connected McIntosh components.
• Data ports to send remote control commands to connected source components.
• Electromagnetic input switching for reliable, noise- and distortion-free transitions.
• Trim level adjustment to harmonize levels of analog inputs.
• Digitally balanced attenuation system for precise volume control with 0.1dB accuracy.
• Fully regulated power supplies and an R-core power transformer for stable, noise-free operation.
• Energy management system automatically powers down the unit after 30 minutes of inactivity (can be disabled).

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 output voltage (balanced/unbalanced): 16V RMS / 8V RMS
• Input sensitivity:
  • High level (balanced/unbalanced): 900mV / 450mV
  • Phono (Moving Coil): 0.45mV
  • Phono (Moving Magnet): 4.5mV
• Signal-to-noise ratio:
  • High level: 100dB
  • Moving Coil: 80dB
  • Moving Magnet: 82dB
• Voltage gain:
  • High level: 15dB
  • Moving Coil/Moving Magnet: selectable between 40dB, 46dB, 52dB, 58dB, or 64dB
• Input impedance (balanced/unbalanced): 44kΩ, 22kΩ
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 44.45 cm x 19.4 cm x 41.9 cm
• Unit weight: 12.5 kg (28 lbs)