The McIntosh C2800 2-Channel Vacuum Tube Preamplifier is a state-of-the-art control center, blending classic tube warmth with modern digital prowess. It features four 12AX7a and three 12AT7 vacuum tubes in its analog signal path, delivering that signature rich McIntosh sound.

Boasting 9 analog inputs (including 3 XLR and 2 adjustable MM/MC phono inputs) and 7 digital inputs, the C2800 acts as a versatile hub. Its advanced DAC supports 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD512, and DXD384kHz via USB, and includes HDMI ARC for TV integration. Three sets of balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs provide flexible connectivity. With a high-drive HXD® headphone amplifier, Home Theater Pass-Through, and iconic McIntosh glass front panel with blue illuminated meters, the C2800 offers unparalleled performance, precise control, and luxurious aesthetics.

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.

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)1 input 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.

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 has unbalanced Send and Return connections.

Return Of The Processor Loop
The C2800 features the return of the Processor Loop, something not available on the last few generations of McIntosh preamplifiers. The Processor Loop allows you to insert an external signal processor (such as our MQ112 Environmental Equalizer or MEN220 Room Correction System), dynamic range expanders, or other devices without having to place it between the preamplifier and power amplifier(s). This is usually more convenient and can allow for better performance.

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.

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)1 input 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.

Inputs In Abundanceinnovative 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.2

Return Of The Processor Loop
The C2800 features the return of the Processor Loop, something not available on the last few generations of McIntosh preamplifiers. The Processor Loop allows you to insert an external signal processor (such as our MQ112 Environmental Equalizer or MEN220 Room Correction System), dynamic range expanders, or other devices without having to place it between the preamplifier and power amplifier(s). This is usually more convenient and can allow for better performance.

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.

Network Connected For Control And Updates
In addition to using the included remote control or the front panel controls, the C2800 can be connected to your network which will unlock control options offered through our complimentary Connect app (scheduled to be available April 2024). Designed for both Android and Apple devices, the Connect app can be used to control key functions of the C2800 including Volume control as well as Input and Output selection.

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.

Number of Channels: 2
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.08%
Frequency Response: +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz; +0, -3dB from 15Hz to 100kHz
Maximum Volts Out (Balanced / Unbalanced): 16V RMS / 8V RMS
Sensitivity High Level (Balanced / Unbalanced): 900mV / 450mV
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Coil): 0.45mV
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet): 4.5mV
Signal To Noise Ratio (High Level): 100dB
Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Coil): 75dB
Signal To Noise Ratio (Moving Magnet): 75dB
Voltage Gain (High Level): 15dB
Voltage Gain (Moving Coil): Selectable 40dB, 46dB, 52dB, 58dB, or 64dB
Voltage Gain (Moving Magnet): Selectable 40dB, 46dB, 52dB, 58dB, or 64dB
Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced): 44K ohm, 22K ohm

CONNECTIVITY:
Balanced Input: 3
Unbalanced Input: 4
Phono Input Moving Coil: Up to 2 (unit has 2 Phono inputs; each is user configurable as either Moving Coil or Moving Magnet)
Phono Input Moving Magnet: Up to 2 (unit has 2 Phono inputs; each is user configurable as either Moving Coil or Moving Magnet)
Upgradeable Digital Audio Module: Yes: DA2
Digital Coaxial Input: 2
Digital Optical Input: 2
Digital MCT Input: 1
Digital USB Input: 1
HDMI (ARC) Input: 1
Digital AES/EBU Input: 0
Balanced Fixed Output: 0
Balanced Variable Output: 3
Unbalanced Fixed Output: 0
Unbalanced Variable Output: 3
Headphone Output: 1/4" High Drive with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)
Input Level Match: Yes, +/- 6dB
Home Theater PassThru: Yes

CONTROL:
Tone Controls: Bass and Treble
Tone Bypass and Input Assign: Yes
RS232 Control Input: Yes
Power Control Output: 1 Main, 4 Trigger
Rear Panel Data Port: 6
Rear Panel IR Sensor Input: Yes

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Multi-Chassis or Single: Single, two-layer
Output Meters: Yes
Vacuum Tube or Solid State: Vacuum Tube (3) 12AX7A and (1) 12AT7
Power Consumption (On): 75 Watts

WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS:
Unit Dimensions (W x H x D): 17.5" (44.45cm) x 7.625" (19.4cm) x 16.5" (41.9cm)
Unit Weight: 28 lbs (12.5kg)
Shipping Weight: 43.5 lbs (19.7kg)

Orders ship Sunday through Friday from our offices in Dubai, UAE.

In-stock products typically ship within 48 hours and should be expected to arrive in 3-4 business days. Orders outside of the UAE should be expected to arrive in 5-7 business days.

Pre-order and backorder products will state the approximate delivery timeline beside the Add To Cart button.

If you would like to place a custom order, chat with our specialists for a guided shopping experience. Once your order has been placed, a timeline will be provided depending on your order details.

- Free delivery within the UAE
- Shipping charges will be calculated upon checkout for orders outside of the UAE (Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia & Qatar).
- Taxes and duties are calculated according to the applicable laws of the state or country an item is shipped to and are the customer's responsibility.

For additional information on shipping and our exchange & return policy visit our help center.

Installation charges are applicable and can be paid upon delivery for our clients based in Dubai.

- Installation Charges: AED 450 Per Hour
- Speaker Cables: AED 32 Per Meter
- Trunking: AED 10 Per Meter

For clients based outside of the UAE, please contact our specialists and we will share an estimate based on your requirements.