McIntosh C55 Preamplifier

Description

Overview

The C55 is a two-channel solid-state preamplifier from McIntosh of Binghamton, New York. It is a full-function preamplifier and control centre, combining flexible analogue switching, a capable phono stage and McIntosh’s upgradeable DA2 digital module, so it can sit at the heart of a system fed by turntables, digital sources and a television alike.

Design & build

The C55 carries the McIntosh signature: a black glass front panel with blue meters and an illuminated logo, over a polished stainless-steel chassis. It measures 17.5 × 7.63 × 16.5 inches and weighs 28 lb, drawing 75 watts in use — a preamplifier scaled to partner McIntosh’s larger power amplifiers.

Performance

As a preamplifier the C55’s role is control and switching without adding character, feeding a clean, complete signal to the power amplifier. Its comprehensive outputs — three balanced and three unbalanced variable stereo sets, plus a configurable subwoofer output — make it flexible enough for bi-amped, multi-amplifier and subwoofer-augmented systems.

Key features

Seven analogue inputs are provided: three balanced and four unbalanced. Two phono inputs can each be configured for moving-coil (0.45mV) or moving-magnet (4.5mV) cartridges, with gain adjustable in 6dB steps from 40 to 64dB and RIAA equalisation. An 8-band analogue equaliser, each band ±12dB with bypass, a High Drive headphone stage with Headphone Crossfeed Director, and Home Theater PassThru complete the control set.

Technology

The DA2 module brings an 8-channel, 32-bit Quad Balanced converter and a full set of digital inputs: two coaxial, two optical, USB, MCT and HDMI ARC, supporting PCM to 24-bit/192kHz, DSD to DSD512 and DXD to 384kHz. As a plug-in card, the digital section can be updated in future without replacing the preamplifier.

Specifications

Type: two-channel solid-state preamplifier. Analogue inputs: 3 balanced, 4 unbalanced. Phono: 2 inputs, each MM (4.5mV) or MC (0.45mV), gain 40–64dB in 6dB steps. Equaliser: 8-band analogue, ±12dB, bypassable. Digital (DA2): 2 coaxial, 2 optical, USB, MCT, HDMI ARC; PCM to 24-bit/192kHz, DSD512, DXD 384kHz. Outputs: 3 balanced, 3 unbalanced variable, configurable subwoofer. Dimensions: 17.5 × 7.63 × 16.5 in. Weight: 28 lb.

Who it’s for

The C55 suits the listener assembling a McIntosh separates system who wants a single, comprehensive control centre — handling multiple turntables and digital sources, headphones and even a television — ahead of a McIntosh power amplifier. It is well matched to demanding, full-range loudspeakers.

Why buy from Hidden Home Technology

A preamplifier of this class rewards careful matching to power amplifier, sources and loudspeakers. We can demonstrate the C55, advise on partnering McIntosh electronics and arrange delivery and installation across the South. Speak to our team to arrange a listen or to specify your system.