The Article
C2700 Valve Preamp From McIntosh
15th August 2019
The C2700 is only the second McIntosh product to feature the newly launched DA2, upgradeable DAC that includes an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) and native DSD512/DXD 384kHz playback over USB
The DA2 Digital Audio Module offers seven digital inputs: two coaxial, two optical (both 24bit/192kHz resolution), one USB and one proprietary MCT port, offering a custom DSD connection. The ARC input allows connection to compatible TVs with an HDMI (ARC) output.
There’s support for Dolby and DTS multichannel formats, too. The C2700’s remote can control the TV’s power and volume.
For analogue, the C2700 offers nine inputs comprising three balanced and four unbalanced connections plus Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) phono inputs.
The C2700 keeps the analogue and digital sections separate while the amplifier’s six valves can be viewed through a glass panel located on the top of the unit.
Bass and treble tone controls are included (On a £10k+ pre-amp? Why?) which can be adjusted in 2dB increments. McIntosh’s proprietary High Drive Headphone Amplifier (6.35mm jack) accompanies the Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD).
The Home Theater Pass Through allows the C2700 to integrate into home theatre systems, while the Power Control ports turns other connected McIntosh components on and off. Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.
Priced at £10,495, the C2700 is out in September (UK) or just about now in the USA.
To learn more, click jordanacoustics.co.uk
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