The C53 Preamplifier is ready to serve in a home audio system for many years – even decades – all while delivering unmatched audio quality. Following the digital audio precedent set in McIntosh’s current line of solid state integrated amplifiers, the C53 stereo preamplifier features an upgradeable digital audio module. But unlike the integrated amplifiers that use the DA1 Digital Audio Module, the C53 is the first product to use McIntosh’s new, more advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.

The DA2 Digital Audio Module builds upon the DA1 with an expanded set of capabilities. In addition to having all the same connections as the DA1 (2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB and 1 MCT), a new audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) input is included on the DA2. This allows it to be connected to TVs with a compatible HDMI (ARC) output to bring TV sound to a new level of audio performance. Popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby^® and DTS^® are supported and will be expertly converted to 2-channel audio for proper playback through the C53. When CEC communication is enabled in both the C53 and the TV, the C53 remote can control the TV’s power and volume.

In addition to the 7 digital inputs found in the DA2 module, the C53 also has 9 analog inputs, giving it a nearly inexhaustible number of 16 total inputs for connecting all your music sources. The analog inputs consist of 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced connections, plus 1 Moving Coil and 1 Moving Magnet phono inputs for plugging in a trusted turntable. Outputs include 3 variable balanced and unbalanced connections along with 1 fixed unbalanced connection.

Tone controls include an 8-band analog equalizer with each band adjustable by ± 12dB so you can fine tune your music just the way you like. The High Drive Headphone Amplifier can power virtually any pair of headphones, while Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD^®) can bring an added dimension to the music. Home Theater Pass Through lets the C53 be seamlessly integrated into a home theater system. Power Control ports easily turn other connected McIntosh components on and off, while the Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.