5
Introduction
Performance Features
Introduction and Performance Features
The McIntosh C52 Audio Preamplifier is one of the
finest Preamplifiers ever created with connections for
both analog and digital sources. The C52 Outputs have
the ability to drive multiple Power Amplifiers. The
C52 reproduction is sonically transparent and abso-
lutely accurate. The McIntosh Sound is “The Sound of
the Music Itself.”
• Electromagnetic Input Switching with Level Trim
Adjustment
Digital Logic Circuits drive Electromagnetic Switches
on all Inputs and operating functions for reliable,
noiseless, distortion free switching. The Analog Inputs
can be matched in level, preventing abrupt changes in
volume levels.
• Moving Coil and Moving Magnet Phono Inputs
The C52 has two precision Phono Preamplifier Cir-
cuits, one for Moving Coil Phono Cartridges and the
other for Moving Magnet Cartridges. Both phono
inputs have selectable loading. The circuits use the
latest designs providing the lowest possible noise and
distortion. The close tolerance resistors and capacitors
used in the RIAA Correction Equalization Circuitry
provides an extremely flat frequency response.
• Digital Audio Inputs
The Digital Inputs decoded PCM and DSD Signals
from external sources. Coaxial and Optical Inputs
process Digital Signals up to 192kHz with 24-Bit
resolution. The Digital MCT Input Circuitry directly
decodes SACD/CD signals from an external Trans-
port component. The USB Input for streaming audio
processes Digital Signals up to 384kHz with 32Bit
resolution, decodes up to DSD256 Digital Signals and
DXD 24Bit with a sampling rate up to 384kHz.
• 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 Precision Balanced
Digitally Controlled Attenuator System with an Opti-
cal Encoder Rotary Control. This assures a 0.1dB
tracking accuracy between channels. There are 214
individual 0.5dB volume level steps with no noise as
the volume level is changed.
• Variable Rate Volume and Balance Controls
The C52 Preamplifier’s Volume and Balance Control
Circuitry provides an ideal rate of change with control
rotation.
• Equalizer Controls
The eight Front Panel Equalizer Controls provide
12dB of boost or cut at their center frequencies. The
C52 remembers the Equalizer Circuitry ON/OFF Set-
ting for each input.
• HXD
®
for Headphones
The C52 Headphone Crossfeed Director Circuitry
(HXD
® )
improves the sound localization for Head-
phone Listening. HXD
TM
restores the directionality
component of the spatial sound stage normally heard
with Loudspeaker listening.
• Alphanumeric Fluorescent Display
The Front Panel Information Display indicates the
Source Selection, Volume/Balance Levels and Setup
Mode Selections. The display intensity is adjustable.
• PASSTHRU Mode
The Automatic PASSTHRU Mode allows the C52 to
become part of a Home Theater Multichannel Sound
System.
• Remote Control with External Sensor Input
The Remote Control provides control of the C52
operating functions and McIntosh Source Components
connected to it. Enjoy your McIntosh System from
another room in your home by connecting an external
sensor.
• Power Control Output and Trigger Assignment
A Power Control connection for convenient Turn-On
of McIntosh Power Amplifiers, Source Components
and Accessories is included. The Power Control Trig-
ger Ouputs may be assigned to activate when a given
Input/Output 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.
• LED Front Panel Illumination
The even Illumination of the Front Panel is accom-
plished by multiple extra long life Light Emitting
Diodes (LEDs) arranged with a special orientation.
• Glass Front Panel and Super Mirror Chassis
Finish
The famous McIntosh Illuminated Glass Front Panel
and the Stainless Steel Chassis with Super Mirror
Finish ensures the pristine beauty of the C52 will be
retained for many years.
HXD
®
is a registered trademark of McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
