Description
The McIntosh C12000 Reference Preamplifier is a no-compromise control centre designed for the world’s finest two-channel audio systems. Built as a true dual-chassis, dual-mono design, the C12000 separates control and audio circuitry into two physically and electrically isolated units, delivering exceptional channel separation, ultra-low noise and absolute signal integrity.
The system consists of the C12000 Controller and C12000 Preamplifier modules. All power supplies, data ports and external control connections are housed within the Controller, while the Preamplifier module contains the sensitive audio circuitry and connections. Each channel is independently powered and isolated, with the two units linked via specially engineered, shielded umbilical cables that prevent external interference from contaminating the audio signal. Despite the two-box architecture, operation is seamless via the supplied remote control or the Controller’s front panel.
Connectivity is extensive and highly flexible. The C12000 Preamplifier provides 12 analogue inputs, including six balanced, four unbalanced and two fully configurable phono inputs. Unlike conventional designs, both phono stages can be set for Moving Magnet or Moving Coil cartridges, with adjustable gain from 40dB to 64dB in 6dB steps, alongside variable capacitance and resistance loading. This allows precise optimisation for virtually any turntable and cartridge combination, making the C12000 an exceptional choice for serious vinyl listeners.
At the heart of the design is McIntosh Hybrid Drive™ technology, combining the musicality of valves with the precision of solid state electronics. The C12000 offers both vacuum tube and solid state outputs, allowing you to select the most appropriate output for the music, system configuration or personal preference. The valve output stage is driven by six carefully selected tubes, while the solid state output uses a discrete balanced design for maximum transparency and drive capability.
Regardless of output selection, the phono stage remains fully valve-based, employing four 12AX7A tubes in a balanced configuration with accurate RIAA equalisation. All outputs are driven by discrete amplifiers, ensuring consistent performance and low distortion across all connection types. Four outputs are provided in total, including balanced valve, balanced solid state, fixed unbalanced and programmable unbalanced outputs.
Measured performance is exemplary. Independent testing has confirmed extremely low noise and distortion alongside very high output capability, placing the C12000 among the best-performing preamplifiers available today. High common-mode rejection further reduces noise introduced by interconnects, making the C12000 particularly well suited to complex or long-cable installations.
Additional features include a high-output headphone amplifier, McIntosh’s HXD® Headphone Crossfeed Director for enhanced spatial realism during headphone listening, and Home Theater Pass Through for seamless integration into multi-channel cinema systems.
Both chassis are finished in mirror-polished stainless steel with brushed black titanium detailing, complemented by classic McIntosh black glass panels, illuminated logos, blue meters and precision-machined aluminium handles. The result is a preamplifier that makes a visual statement equal to its sonic authority.
At Hidden Home Technology, we specify and install the McIntosh C12000 as the reference preamplifier for clients seeking ultimate flexibility, resolution and system control. Proper setup, cartridge optimisation and system matching are critical to unlocking its full potential, particularly within high-resolution listening rooms and flagship hi-fi systems.
Click here to see the vacuum tube option – McIntosh C2800 2-Channel Preamplifier
Click here for the McIntosh website – McIntosh C12000 Reference Preamplifier
