The McIntosh C53 Preamplifier is a versatile 2-channel solid-state preamplifier designed to be the central control unit for any high-end audio system. It boasts an extensive array of 16 inputs (9 analog + 7 digital), including three balanced XLR, four unbalanced RCA, and dedicated, adjustable Moving Coil and Moving Magnet phono inputs.

Its integrated DA2 Digital Audio Module features a Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit DAC, supporting high-resolution audio up to DSD512 via USB and 24-bit/192kHz via coaxial/optical inputs. Notably, it includes an HDMI (ARC) input for TV integration. The C53 also offers an 8-band analog equalizer, a High Drive headphone amplifier with HXD®, and Home Theater PassThru. Encased in McIntosh’s iconic black glass and polished stainless steel with blue meters, the C53 delivers pristine signal processing and comprehensive control with extremely low 0.005% THD.

- The C53 Preamplifier is ready to serve your homeaudio needs for years or even decades to come. It’s the first product to feature our advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.
- As new digital audio technologies are developed, the DA2 can be replaced by future modules, keeping your C53 current for many years.
- Powered by a next generation, audiophile-grade Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), the DA2 supports high resolution digital music up to DSD512 and DXD 384kHz.
- Includes a new audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)1 input that allows it to be connected to TVs with a HDMI (ARC) output to bring your TV sound to the next level.
- Includes a nearly inexhaustible 9 analog and 7 digital inputs for connecting all your music sources.
- Complete with McIntosh technologies including 8-Band Tone Controls, Home Theater PassThru, High Drive headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) and Power Control.

CONNECTIVITY
Balanced Input:3
Unbalanced Input:4
Phono Input Moving Coil:1 (adjustable)
Phono Input Moving Magnet:1 (adjustable)
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:1
Unbalanced Variable Output:3
Headphone Output:1/4" High Drive with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)
Input Level Match:Yes, +/- 6dB
Home Theater PassThru:Yes
Unbalanced Analog Connector Type:Premium gold-plated solid brass
Service Port:1

CONTROL
Tone Controls:8 band (each band adjustable ± 12dB )
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:Solid State
Power Consumption (On):30 Watts

WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS
Unit Dimensions (W x H x D):17.5" (44.45cm) x 7.6" (19.37cm) x 18" (45.72cm)
Unit Weight:28 lbs (12.5 kg)
Shipping Weight:43.5 lbs (19.7 kg)

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.