McIntosh
C49 Solid State Preamplifier
Best high-end preamp for audiophiles seeking versatile analog and digital integration.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the McIntosh C49 Solid State Preamplifier. Engineered for the discerning audiophile, it boasts a robust solid-state design for pristine sound reproduction. Seamlessly integrate your favorite sources, from turntables to high-resolution digital files via the DA2 module. Enjoy intuitive control through the front panel or remote, ensuring effortless operation within your high-end audio system. The C49 is built for lasting performance, delivering precise signal management and an exceptional listening experience.
$4500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
133
/ 466
#133 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-35%
Below average
Circuit Type
Solid State
/ Solid State
Who it's for
- Audiophiles demanding future-proof high-resolution digital playback
- Vinyl collectors needing versatile connectivity for multiple turntables
- Collectors valuing iconic aesthetics and long-term investment quality
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking high-end performance at lower costs
- Minimalists wanting an all-in-one streaming solution
- Users requiring built-in tools to fix challenging room acoustics
Performance breakdown
Signal Purity
Ultra-low harmonic distortion ensures a transparent and pristine audio signal path.
Digital Versatility
The DA2 module handles high-resolution files with exceptional modern digital precision.
Phono Flexibility
Dedicated MM and MC inputs accommodate a wide range of turntable setups.
Build Integrity
Classic stainless steel and glass construction offers unmatched long-term durability.
Headphone Performance
HXD technology creates a natural, speaker-like soundstage for private listening sessions.
System Integration
Extensive balanced and unbalanced connectivity options simplify complex high-end audio chains.
Key Specs
Circuit Type
Solid State
Dimensions
17-1/2" W x 6" H x 18" D (44.45cm W x 15.24cm H x 45.72cm D)
Weight
22 lbs (10 kg)
Total Harmonic Distortion
0.005% (20Hz to 20kHz)
Signal to Noise Ratio
100dB (High Level), 82dB (MM), 80dB (MC)
Frequency Response
20Hz to 20kHz (+0, -0.5dB); 10Hz to 100kHz (+0, -3dB)
Input Types
2x Balanced, 3x Unbalanced, 1x MM Phono, 1x MC Phono, 2x Optical, 2x Coaxial, 1x USB, 1x MCT
Output Types
1x Balanced, 2x Unbalanced (fixed), 1x Unbalanced (variable), 1x Headphone (6.3mm)
Features
- Supports DA2 Digital Audio Module
- HXD Headphone Crossfeed Director
- Adjustable Bass and Treble Tone Controls
- Home Theater Pass Through mode
- High-resolution DSD512 and DXD support
- Versatile remote and front panel control
- Solid-state circuit for clarity
- Compatible with McIntosh power amplifiers
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the McIntosh C49 preamplifier for its exceptional sound quality, noting remarkable clarity, detailed resolution, and an immersive soundstage that delivers authentic musical timbre. The integrated high-quality DAC and versatile phono stage are significant highlights, enhancing performance across all digital and analog sources. Reviewers frequently laud the C49's legendary build quality, robust construction, and iconic aesthetic. While a premium product, users consider the C49 a worthwhile investment, viewing it as the cornerstone component that elevates the entire high-fidelity listening experience through enduring quality and advanced features.
Know before you buy
Yes, the C49 features dedicated inputs for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, allowing you to connect two turntables simultaneously.
The DA2 module expands your connectivity options to include high-resolution digital inputs, such as USB, optical, and coaxial. It supports advanced formats like DSD512 and DXD, ensuring your digital library is processed with high fidelity.
This mode allows you to seamlessly integrate the C49 into a multi-channel home theater system. It bypasses the preamplifier's volume control for a designated input, letting your home theater processor handle the volume for those specific sources.
The C49 features a dedicated headphone amplifier with an impedance range of 20 to 600 ohms, making it capable of driving a wide variety of professional and high-end consumer headphones.
Yes, it includes adjustable bass and treble tone controls on the front panel, giving you the flexibility to fine-tune the audio output to match your room acoustics or personal preference.
While it is designed to pair perfectly with McIntosh power amplifiers, the C49 features standard balanced and unbalanced outputs that are compatible with most high-quality power amplifiers on the market.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.