C8

The McIntosh C8 is a valve preamplifier for use with a power amplifier, source components and loudspeakers. It can be combined with an amplifier such as the matching MC830, a turntable, CD player or streaming music player, and a pair of speakers.

Four 12AX7a vacuum tubes are housed inside protective cages, with the C8 occupying a similar size to the McIntosh MA252 Integrated Amplifier. Analogue connectivity comprises 1 balanced input and 2 unbalanced inputs, alongside separate 1 Moving Coil and 1 Moving Magnet phono inputs with adjustable loading. Input names can be customised, while bass and treble controls allow the tonal balance to be adjusted. Outputs include 1 balanced and 2 unbalanced connections, with 1 of the unbalanced outputs configurable for a powered subwoofer.

The McIntosh C8 has no digital inputs as standard, but it can accept the optional DA2 Digital Audio Module as a dealer-installed upgrade. The DA2 provides 7 digital inputs, comprising 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, 1 MCT for use with the McIntosh MCT500 or MCT80 SACD/CD Transport, and 1 audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel connection.

Digital conversion in the DA2 is handled by a Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analogue Converter. Its digital section provides improved dynamic range and improved total harmonic distortion. The USB input supports native playback up to DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while the coaxial and optical inputs decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz.

For headphones, the C8 includes a High Drive headphone amplifier designed to power a wide range of headphones. Power Control ports send power on and off signals to connected McIntosh components. The user-selectable Auto Off function switches the C8 off after 30 minutes without user input or an audio signal. Home Theatre Pass Through supports integration with a home theatre system, while Data Ports send remote control commands to connected source components.

Front-panel knobs and the supplied remote control provide access to input selection, bass, treble, tone bypass, balance and input offset levels. The front-panel display shows all settings, the volume level and the selected input. A stainless steel chassis with a polished mirror finish supports the C8, with McIntosh die cast aluminium name badges on each side. The black glass front panel has silver trim, an illuminated logo and rotary control knobs.