McIntosh C8
Image source — © McIntosh
What is it?
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Model name
C8
Analog inputs (balanced)
1
Analog inputs (single-ended)
2
Analog outputs (balanced)
1
Analog outputs (single-ended)
N/A
Gain (dBu)
80
Input sensitivity (mV)
900 (XLR) + 450 (RCA)
Output voltage (V)
N/A
Input impedance (balanced) (Ω)
44 000
Input impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
22 000
Output impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Maximum output level (balanced) (dBu)
16
Maximum output level (single-ended) (dBu)
8
Volume control range (dBu)
N/A
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
15
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
100 000
Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR, unweighted) (dB)
95
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N) (%)
0.08
Dimensions (mm)
312 x 194 x 413
Weight (kg)
8.2
Official link
Designed to control multiple areas from a single device, the McIntosh CR106 combines the functions of a preamp and an audio matrix switch, providing centralized control of music in different rooms and the flexibility to adjust to different user preferences.
The device has a new removable DA2 module, where all digital inputs and associated signal processing circuits are assembled in a single place. The idea is for the user to easily replace the board as digital audio formats evolve, without having to replace the entire preamp.
In addition to the digital-to-analog converter (and the McIntosh C2700 has a very good one - proprietary Quad Balanced technology, ready to work with signals up to DSD512 and DXD 384 kHz), there is also a Dolby and DTS spatial sound decoder with stereo conversion. Thus, the device will work perfectly with movie sound, easily integrate into a home cinema (there is a Home Theater Pass-Through mode), and also interface with TV via HDMI ARC.
The device has 2 XLR, 3 RCA inputs, a phono corrector module (MM/MS), a pair of coaxial, a pair of optical connectors and a USB interface. There is also an on-board MCT connector for communication with McIntosh transports. The digital-to-analog converter of the model uses chips in Quad Balanced mode and accepts signals up to PCM 32/384 and DSD256.
The McIntosh C55 preamp takes the best out of the C53 model, while taking the sound quality to a whole new level. The device is equipped with an 8-band analog equalizer to fine tune the music and create a personalized sound.