McIntosh C2800 2-Channel Preamplifier

McIntosh C2800 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier

Four-tube analog circuitry, 16 analog and digital inputs, configurable phono stages, and an upgradeable DA2 DAC module

The McIntosh C2800 is a two-channel vacuum tube preamplifier built around three 12AX7A tubes and one 12AT7, with extensive analog and digital connectivity for a complete high-end music system. Nine analog inputs include balanced and unbalanced line-level connections plus two independently configurable phono inputs, while the included DA2 Digital Audio Module adds seven digital inputs and high-resolution playback up to DSD512.

Both phono inputs can be configured for Moving Coil or Moving Magnet cartridges, allowing the C2800 to accommodate two turntables or tonearms without requiring an external phonostage. Gain is adjustable from 40 dB to 64 dB in 6 dB steps, while cartridge loading can be tailored over a wide range of resistance and capacitance settings.

The DA2 Digital Audio Module uses a Quad Balanced, eight-channel, 32-bit DAC and provides two coaxial, two optical, USB, MCT, and HDMI ARC inputs. Coaxial and optical inputs support PCM up to 24-bit/192 kHz, while USB supports DSD512 and DXD up to 384 kHz. The MCT connection provides a secure digital path for high-resolution SACD audio from compatible McIntosh transports, and the complete DA2 module can be replaced should McIntosh introduce a future digital module.

Three sets of variable balanced and unbalanced outputs give the C2800 considerable flexibility in more complex systems. The Main output and Output 1 include adjustable high-pass and low-pass filters for bi-amping, with level trim available on Output 1 to match amplifiers of different gain. Output 2 can operate in stereo or mono and can be used for a second audio system or powered subwoofer connection.

Features

Vacuum Tube Preamplification

The C2800 uses three 12AX7A tubes and one 12AT7 in its analog circuitry, with the tubes visible through a glass panel in the top of the chassis.

Two Configurable Phono Inputs

Both phono inputs can be independently configured for Moving Coil or Moving Magnet cartridges. Gain is selectable at 40, 46, 52, 58, or 64 dB, allowing the C2800 to work with a wide range of cartridge outputs.

Upgradeable DA2 Digital Audio Module

The included DA2 module incorporates a Quad Balanced, eight-channel, 32-bit DAC and provides seven digital inputs. Its modular construction allows the complete digital section to be replaced if a compatible future McIntosh module becomes available.

HDMI ARC

An HDMI Audio Return Channel input allows compatible televisions to feed audio directly into the C2800. Multichannel Dolby and DTS audio can be converted to two-channel playback for use through the stereo system.