McIntosh Announces the C53 Preamplifier
Announcing the C53 Preamplifier
The first product to feature McIntosh’s new advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.
The new C53 Preamplifier is ready to serve in your home audio system for many years – even decades – all while delivering unmatched audio quality. It is the first product to use our new, more advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.
The DA2 Digital Audio Module builds upon the DA1 module with an expanded set of capabilities. It features a new audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) input, allowing it to be connected to TVs with a compatible HDMI (ARC) output to bring TV sound to a new level of audio performance. Popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby¬Ž and DTS¬Ž are supported and will be expertly converted to 2-channel audio for proper playback through the C53. The DA2‚Äôs USB input can support native playback of up to DSD512, surpassing the DSD256 limit of the DA1.
All of these digital audio advancements are thanks to the next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that powers the DA2. This audiophile-grade DAC is highlighted by both an improved dynamic range and total harmonic distortion compared to the DA1.
In addition to the 7 digital inputs found in the DA2 module, the C53 also has 9 analog inputs, giving it a nearly inexhaustible number of 16 total inputs for connecting all your music sources. Tone controls include an 8-band analog equalizer with each band adjustable by ± 12dB so you can fine tune your music just the way you like.
All this audio technology is packaged inside the C53’s classic McIntosh design featuring a black glass front panel backlit by direct LED lighting, blue meters, rotary knobs, an illuminated logo and aluminum end caps. Visit the McIntosh website to learn more about the new C53 Preamplifier.
Expected to begin shipping in the USA this month, we will keep you updated as far as a New Zealand ETA
