McIntosh C8 Valve 2-Channel Preamplifier + 2 MC830 Mono Amplifiers

Description

Aesthetic Harmony and Sonic Brilliance

The McIntosh C8 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, featuring an open-chassis industrial design reminiscent of its acclaimed counterparts like the MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier and MA252 and MA352 Integrated Amplifiers, emerges as a visual and auditory masterpiece. Paired with an amplifier such as the MC830 and complemented by source components like a turntable or CD player (consider the matching MCD85 SACD/CD Player), the C8 crafts a lifelike audio experience within the confines of your home.

Tube-Powered Elegance

Mirroring the size of the MA252 Integrated Amplifier, the C8 is powered by four 12AX7a vacuum tubes housed within protective cages, a nod to McIntosh's iconic MC275. With one balanced and two unbalanced analog inputs, along with Moving Coil and Moving Magnet phono inputs boasting adjustable loading for cherished vinyl collections, the C8 ensures versatility and audiophile-grade performance. All inputs are customizable with user-friendly names for streamlined control, while bass and treble tone controls allow precise music fine-tuning.

Configurable Outputs and Subwoofer Enhancement

On the output front, the C8 offers one balanced and two unbalanced outputs, with one of the unbalanced outputs configurable as a subwoofer output. This flexibility, paired with its tonal control features, provides an enriching audio experience tailored to individual preferences.

Digital-Audio-Ready with DA2 Digital Audio Module

While the C8 doesn't feature digital inputs, it is digital-audio-ready with the option for a dealer-installed upgrade: the DA2 Digital Audio Module. With 7 digital inputs, including USB, coaxial, optical, MCT (for use with MCT500 or MCT80 SACD/CD Transport), and HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC), the DA2 enhances the C8's digital capabilities. The next-generation Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit DAC within the DA2 supports high-resolution audio playback, delivering improved dynamic range and reduced total harmonic distortion.

High Drive Headphone Amplifier and Smart Features

For personal listening pleasure, the C8 integrates a High Drive headphone amplifier, exhibiting ample power and flexibility to drive a wide array of headphones. Power Control ports facilitate convenient system power-up and shutdown, while the user-selectable Auto Off feature turns the C8 off after 30 minutes of inactivity. Home Theater Pass Through seamlessly integrates the C8 into home theater systems, and Data Ports enable remote control commands to connected source components.

Intuitive Control and McIntosh Aesthetic

The front panel features intuitive controls, including input selection, bass, treble, tone bypass, balance, and input offset adjustments, all manageable via front panel knobs or the included remote control. The display showcases volume level, input selection, and settings. The C8's stainless steel chassis, polished to a mirror finish, boasts classic McIntosh-styled die-cast aluminum name badges and a black glass front panel with silver trim, illuminated logo, and rotary control knobs.

Explore the McIntosh C8 at Your Local Dealer

Discover the sonic excellence and aesthetic sophistication of the McIntosh C8 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier by reaching out to your local dealer. Experience a blend of timeless design and cutting-edge technology that defines McIntosh's commitment to audio perfection.

MC830

The MC830 Solid State Amplifier by McIntosh stands as a testament to audio engineering excellence, featuring an open-chassis industrial design reminiscent of the iconic MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier, and the MA252 and MA352 Integrated Amplifiers. Designed for audiophiles seeking a true-to-life home audio experience, the MC830 pairs seamlessly with source components like the C8 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, a turntable, CD player (consider the matching MCD85 SACD/CD Player), or a streaming music player, combined with a pair of speakers.

Robust Power and Precision: With a footprint akin to the MA252 Integrated Amplifier, the MC830 employs a direct-coupled output design, delivering a formidable 300 Watts at 8 Ohms or an impressive 480 Watts at 4 Ohms. The fast-responding Dual Scale Watt meter ensures an accurate readout of power output for both speaker impedances, while Monogrammed Heatsinks™ not only enhance visual appeal but also maintain optimal performance by ensuring the MC830 operates at an optimal temperature.

Versatile Connectivity: The MC830 is designed for seamless integration into your home music system, featuring both balanced and unbalanced inputs. Its balanced design allows it to effortlessly connect to a range of source components, contributing to a versatile and immersive listening experience.

Intelligent Speaker Protection: To safeguard your speakers and overall audio setup, the MC830 incorporates two cornerstone home audio technologies. The patented Power Guard® technology monitors the amplifier's output signal, preventing overdriving and potential damage to speakers. If necessary, it makes real-time micro-adjustments to the input signal to prevent clipping. The Sentry Monitor™ acts as a fuse-less short-circuit protection circuit, disengaging the MC830's output stage in case of abnormal conditions and resetting automatically when conditions normalize.

Solid Cinch™ Speaker Binding Posts: The MC830 prioritizes audio quality and convenience with patented Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts. These posts secure speaker cables firmly, preventing disconnection and possible shorts. Gold-plated binding posts resist corrosion, ensuring a high-quality audio signal transmission to your speakers.

Smart Power Management: Power Control ports simplify system power-up and shutdown by sending on/off signals to connected McIntosh components. The user-selectable Auto-Off feature conserves energy by turning off the MC830 after 30 minutes of inactivity, ensuring an efficient and eco-friendly operation.

Aesthetic Sophistication: The MC830 is a visual masterpiece with a die-cast aluminum name badge on each side of the chassis. The front, top, and rear of the chassis are polished to a mirror finish, presenting a sleek and stylish appearance. The black glass front panel, silver trim, blue Watt meter, illuminated logo, and control knobs complete the sophisticated aesthetic.

Embark on an Audiophile Odyssey: For those passionate about audio excellence, the McIntosh MC830 Solid State Amplifier provides a gateway to a transcendent listening experience. Elevate your sonic journey with the fusion of robust power, precision engineering, and intelligent protection technologies. Contact your local dealer to embark on an audiophile odyssey with the McIntosh MC830.

Additional Information