McIntosh C12000 preamplifier

Maximum control and versatility

The C12000 is McIntosh's new generation two-piece preamplifier that takes the concept of the acclaimed C1100 model to the next level. Thanks to the two-part structure, sensitive audio signals have been perfectly separated from the control and power side. Absolute isolation of the preamplifier's two main functions – control and audio signal routing – is achieved with this unusually high-quality implementation. Dividing the preamplifier's primary functions into a separate housing produces the purest possible sound reproduction.

Shared on purpose, together complete

The C12000 consists of a separate control and preamplifier module. All power supply, data ports and external control interfaces are located in the controller. A dual isolated power supply drives the left and right channels, while a dual microprocessor improves system reliability. The left and right channels of the audio connections and circuits located in the preamplifier are electrically and mechanically isolated from each other, which enables true dual mono operation – resulting in extreme stereo separation and sound purity. The units are connected to each other with two specially designed multi-pole cables that are shielded to prevent external interference from leaking into the audio signal. Although they are two separate units, they work seamlessly together. The whole is easy to use with the included remote control or from the front panel of the control unit.

A total of 12 analog inputs

The C12000 preamplifier module has six balanced XLR inputs, four RCA inputs and two phono RCA inputs. Phono inputs are no longer locked to MM or MC boxes; instead, both inputs can be precisely adjusted for the desired box type. Adjustable capacitance, resistance and gain (6 dB steps between 40 dB and 64 dB) ensure matching.

Tube or semiconductor - in this case both

The C12000 preamp offers both tube and solid state output, so you can decide which one you want to use based on the rest of your sound system and your preferences. All four stereo outputs are controlled by separate amplifiers. As for the tube output, which reproduces exceptionally delicately, tonally and cleanly, six tubes are used; two 12AT7 tubes and one 12AX7A tube, one for the left and right channels. The high-quality solid-state output works through a balanced discrete operational amplifier. Regardless of whether you choose tube or solid state output, the phono input is implemented with four 12AX7A vacuum tubes - two tubes per channel - in a fully balanced and precisely RIAA equalized configuration.

One or more power amplifiers can be connected to the C12000's four outputs in a variety of ways. One of the outputs is a balanced tube output, one balanced semiconductor, one fixed RCA semiconductor and one programmable RCA, which can be set to tube or semiconductor operation. The versatility of controls available on the two phono inputs and all outputs represents a new level even in McIntosh preamps, allowing for maximum flexibility in configuring your sound system.

The amplifier circuit has a high common-mode attenuation, so the possible interference from connection cables is significantly reduced. McIntosh's high-power High Drive headphone jack is also included for personal listening. The user-selectable Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) brings more depth and sense of space to the music. The C12000 can also be seamlessly integrated into a multi-channel home theater system using the Home Theater Pass Through feature.

Like a work of art

The C12000 preamp has a fully balanced implementation to match the performance level of any McIntosh Quad Balanced amplifier. Classic McIntosh details such as black glass front panels, blue gauges, sleek and precise control knobs, stainless steel frames, illuminated logos and custom brushed aluminum machined handles make the C12000 a visual work of art - along with impressive performance, of course. The C12000 can be connected to a variety of McIntosh amplifiers, speakers, room correctors, CD players, turntables, tuners and other source components to create a complete home audio system.

• Frequency response: +0, -0.5 dB 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, +0, -3 dB 10 Hz to 100,000 Hz
• Harmonic distortion (20 Hz to 20,000 Hz):
• RCA/XLR line inputs: 0.005% maximum
• RCA Phono: 0.05% maximum
• Nominal output voltage: 5V balanced, 2.5V unbalanced (main outputs)
• Maximum output voltage: 20V RMS balanced, 10V RMS unbalanced
• Sensitivity (at rated voltage):
• Line inputs: 900 mV balanced, 450 mV unbalanced
• Phono 1 & 2 inputs: 0.25mV to 4.5mV, selectable 40-64dB gain
• Signal-to-noise ratio (A-weighted)
• Line inputs - 107 dB (at less than nominal power)
• MM Phono - 83dB (under 5mV input)
• MC Phono - 79dB (under 0.5mV input)
• Input Impedance: Line Inputs - 50K ohm balanced, 25K ohm unbalanced
• Maximum input voltage: Line inputs - 20V balanced, 10V unbalanced, Phono MC - 10mV, Phono MM - 100mV
• Output impedance: 200 ohms balanced, 100 ohms unbalanced
• Headphone load impedance (selectable): 16 to 40, 40 to 150 and 150 to 600 ohms
• Dimensions per piece (W x H x D): 44.5 x 15.2 x 48.3 cm
• Weight: 11.3 kg preamplifier, 12.3 kg controller