McIntosh C2800 2-Channel Preamplifier

The C2800 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier is a masterpiece of audio passion and engineering precision. Crafted for discerning audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike, performance has been woven into the very fabric of this audio treasure. The C2800 has proudly earned the McIntosh name.

At the heart of the C2800 lies methodically designed vacuum tube circuitry. Leveraging the latest designs to all but eliminate noise and distortion, the C2800 reduces them to minuscule levels. Its four vacuum tubes, or valves, deliver a listening experience that transcends expectations.

“An exceptional valve (vacuum tube) preamp with excellent performance, all the inputs almost anyone could ever want, and no sign of valve quirkiness to frighten the horses.” Earned the prestigious Outstanding Product badge. – Hi-Fi News

INPUTS IN ABUNDANCE

With its 9 analog and 7 digital inputs (16 total inputs), the C2800 will become the nucleus of your home audio system. There are 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced analog inputs, plus 2 phono inputs that can be configured for either Moving Coil or Moving Magnet phono cartridges to connect your turntable(s). Both phono inputs feature adjustable Gain in 6dB steps from 40dB to 64dB as well as RIAA equalization.

“The C2800 offers a rich and detailed sound signature. The design combines the warmth of vacuum tube amplification and solid-state technology for a dynamic listening experience allowing a clear separation of instruments, vocals, and great imaging… These qualities in my opinion make the McIntosh C2800 a standout choice for anyone who is looking to enhance their audio system.” – The Absolute Sound (watch full video review below)

Our DA2 Digital Audio Module houses the 7 digital inputs and is powered by an audiophile-grade Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). The DA2 offers a variety of inputs, including an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)¹input that will give your TV sound new life when played through your home stereo system. Multi-channel audio formats from Dolby^®and DTS^® will be expertly converted to two-channel audio for an enthralling listening experience.

The DA2 has 6 other digital inputs: 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, and 1 MCT. The coax and optical inputs decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz for high resolution audio playback, while the USB input supports DSD512 and DXD 384kHz. And to get the best sound quality from the high definition audio on your SACD collection, the MCT input offers a secure, custom DSD connection when paired with our MCT series of SACD/CD Transports. The entire DA2 module is upgradeable and could be replaced by a future module should new digital technologies become available.

“It is extremely easy to live with and use. With two configurable phono inputs and a very comprehensive DAC treatment, not to mention the headphone output, you’ll be well set to concentrate on the right power amplifier to do this C2800 justice so that you can focus on the music.” Highly Recommended. – HiFi and Music Source

INNOVATIVE OUTPUTS FOR PERSONALIZED LISTENING

Offering advanced connection flexibility, there are 3 stereo sets of variable balanced and unbalanced outputs to connect the C2800 to your power amplifier(s). All sets of outputs can be active simultaneously, and each can send the audio signal from the source component to 3 separate audio systems.

Bi-amping a single speaker system can be accomplished using the Main output and Output 1 and their built-in adjustable High Pass and Low Pass filters. In this configuration, the High Pass outputs could be connected to a vacuum tube amplifier, and the Low Pass outputs could be connected to a solid-state amplifier. Then the adjustable crossover would let you optimize the performance of your amplifiers to your speaker’s specifications and to your listening preferences. Output 1 offers trim level control, which allows two different amplifiers to be volume balanced when bi-amping.

Additionally, Output 2 can be configured as either mono or stereo to allow it to send audio signal to a stereo audio system in another room, to a single mono subwoofer, or to 2 separate stereo subwoofers.

The Processor Loop is also the perfect place to connect an analog tape recorder, a high-end cassette deck, or a 3-head reel deck that allows you to record from a source component and hear the recording just seconds later so you can monitor your recordings.

Select McIntosh source components³ that have a data cable connected to the C2800 will be partially controllable via the app’s Source Control feature. With Source Control, users will be able to control many of the source unit’s functions from the app, such as changing radio stations on a tuner, or playing a disc in a CD Player. Source Control will bring added convenience to setups that have a secondary system connected to one of the C2800’s outputs, such as an outdoor system where you will no longer be forced to go inside to control its basic functionality.

When connected to your network, the C2800 will also be able to receive periodic firmware updates. These firmware releases can add new features or provide important performance updates. Watch our McIntosh Connect App: Setup and How to Use video to get acquainted with the app.

The C2800 has received Connects with Control4 Certification from Control4^®, a leading global provider of smart home automation solutions, with the implementation of their Simple Device Discovery Protocol (SDDP), allowing it to be effortlessly integrated into Control4 automation systems to further enhance the user experience. It has also received Works with Crestron Home certification from Crestron, a global leader in advanced smart home technology. Crestron Home unlocks the full potential of a smart home. It’s the complete package for any size project, delivering a simpler, smarter user experience for homeowners, remarkably fast configuration and deployment for integrators, and the confidence that comes with renowned, best-in-class Crestron control hardware.

ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE FEATURES

• Electronic bass and treble circuitry allows for adjustments of low and high frequencies in precise 1dB steps. The C2800 remembers your tone control circuitry bypass setting for each input.
• High Drive Headphone Amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD^®) technology brings an added dimension to headphone listening.
• Home Theater PassThru for seamless integration into your home theater system.
• Has received Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs.
• Power Control lets you easily turn other connected McIntosh components on and off.
• Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.
• Electromagnetic Input Switching for reliable, noiseless, and distortion-free switching.
• Level Trim Adjustment for matching analog input levels to prevent abrupt changes in volume levels.
• Precision balanced, digitally controlled attenuator system for accurate volume control with 0.1dB accuracy.
• Fully regulated power supplies and a special R-core power transformer for stable, noise-free operation.
• Eco-friendly Power Management System that will turn the unit off after 30 minutes of inactivity (can be disabled).

ELEVATE YOUR AUDITORY JOURNEY

All this cutting-edge audio technology resides within the iconic McIntosh design – a black glass front panel adorned with blue meters, rotary knobs, and an illuminated logo. The polished stainless steel chassis adds a touch of elegance, making it a perfect companion for amplifiers, CD players, turntables, and more.

With the C2800, experience the warmth and richness that only vacuum tubes can offer, elevating your listening experience to new heights. Contact your local dealer and embark on an audio adventure like never before.