5
Introduction
Performance Features
Introduction and Performance Features
The McIntosh C2300 Tube Preamplifier is one of the
finest Tube Preamplifiers ever created. The versatile
Preamplifier provides connections for various input
sources and outputs to drive multiple Power Ampli-
fiers. The C2300 reproduction is sonically transparent
and absolutely accurate. The McIntosh Sound is “The
Sound of the Music Itself.”
• Electromagentic Input Switching with Level Trim
Adjustment
Digital Logic integrated circuits drive Electromag-
netic Switches on all Inputs and operating functions
for reliable, noiseless, distortion free switching. All
eight Inputs on the C2300 can be matched in level, so
there are no abrupt changes in volume levels between
the different Inputs. There is also a Record Monitor
function for checking the progress of a recording.
• Moving Coil and Moving Magnet Phono Inputs
The C2300 contains two different precision Phono
Preamplifier Circuits. One for low output Moving Coil
Phono Cartridges with selectable resistance loading,
the other is for Moving Magnet Cartridges with select-
able capacitive loading. Both circuits use the latest
designs to provide the lowest possible noise and dis-
tortion. The RIAA Correction Equalization Circuitry
utilizies close tolerance resistors and capacitors for an
extremely flat frequency response.
• Balanced Inputs
The Balanced Inputs allow the connection of a source
component using long cable lengths without a loss in
sound quality.
• Precision Tracking Volume Control
Volume levels are controlled by a new Multi-Stage
Precision Digitally Controlled Attenuator System with
a tracking accuracy of 0.1dB.
• Variable Rate Volume and Balance Control Selec
-
tion
The C2300 Tube Preamplifier’s Volume and Balance
Control Circuitry provides an ideal rate of change with
control rotation.
• Assignable Tone Controls with Bypass
The C2300 remembers the Bass and Treble Control
Settings or the Tone Circuitry Bypass Option for each
input.
• Alphanumeric Fluorescent Display
The Multifunction Front Panel Display indicates the
Source Selection, Volume and Balance Levels. Setup
Mode Selections and Adjustments are also displayed.
The display intensity is adjustable.
• Precision Parts
Only the finest precision 1% tolerance resistors are
used throughout.
• Low Distortion
Distortion levels of all types are less than 0.08%. Mu-
sic is amplified with total transparency and accuracy.
• Passthru Mode
The Automatic Passthru Mode allows the C2300 to
become part of a Multichannel Sound System for
DVD-Audio, SACD and Home Theater Movies.
• Output Switching
Front panel Output Push-buttons control two Switched
Outputs that allow sending signals to two separate
Power Amplifiers.
• Remote Control with External Sensor Input
The Remote Control provides control of the C2300
operating functions and any McIntosh Source Com-
ponents connected to it. Enjoy your McIntosh System
from other rooms in your home by connecting exter-
nal sensors.
• Power Control Output and Trigger Assignment
A Power Control connection for convenient Turn-On
of McIntosh Power Amplifiers, Source Components
and Accessories is included. Two of the Power Con-
trol Ouputs may be assigned to activate when a given
Input is selected.
• Special Power Supply
Fully regulated Power Supplies and a special R-Core
Power Transformer ensure stable noise free operation
even though the power line varies.
• Extruded Side Panels
The sides of the C2300 are extruded aluminum panels
with a bead blast textured surface and a black anod-
ized finish.
• Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination
The even Illumination of the Front Panel is accom-
plished by the combination of custom designed Fiber
Optic Light Diffusers and extra long life Light Emit-
ting Diodes (LEDs). The glass Front Panel ensures the
pristine beauty of the C2300 will be retained for many
years.
