McIntosh has announced the new C2700 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, a highly versatile 16-input preamp which combines 70 years of valve expertise with the very latest hi-res digital audio technology, courtesy of the company’s new, upgradeable DA2 Digital Audio Module (DAC).
McIntosh have a popular line of vacuum tube preamplifiers, but the C2700 Tube Preamplifier is designed and built for the modern digital age. It is only the second McIntosh product to feature the newly launched DA2 module, a highly advanced upgradeable DAC with an expanded set of capabilities compared to its predecessor, DA1.
The new module, which can be replaced as digital technology evolves, includes an audio-only HDMI ARC and native DSD512/DXD 384kHz playback over USB, using a next generation, Quad Balanced, eight-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analogue Converter (DAC).
The DA2 Digital Audio Module improves dynamic range and lowers total harmonic distortion over the DA1, as well as offering seven digital inputs, including two coaxial, two optical, one USB, and one proprietary MCT port.
The C2700 also offers nine analogue inputs comprising of three balanced and four unbalanced connections, plus Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) phono inputs. With a total of 16 inputs, the C2700 is highly versatile and ready for today’s multi-source audio systems.
The preamp can be fully integrated with varying room constructions/acoustics anywhere in the world using the C2700’s bass and treble tone controls which can be adjusted in 2dB increments.
The Home Theatre Pass Through allows seamless integration into home theatre systems, and the Power Control ports turn other connected McIntosh components on and off, and the Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.
The C2700 is now available to order from authorised McIntosh dealers with shipping expected to begin in September. It is priced at £10,495.