Owner`s manual

5
Introduction
Performance Features
Introduction and Performance Features
The McIntosh C48 Audio Preamplifier is one of the
finest Preamplifiers ever created. The versatile Pream-
plifier provides connections for various input sources
both analog and digital. The C48 Outputs have the
ability to drive multiple Power Amplifiers. The C48
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 C48 can be matched in level, so
there are no abrupt changes in volume levels between
the different Inputs.
• Moving Coil and Moving Magnet Phono Inputs
The C48 contains two different precision Phono Pre-
amplifier 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
utilizes close tolerance resistors and capacitors for an
extremely flat frequency response.
• Digital Audio Inputs
The C48 has Coaxial, Optical and USB Digital Inputs
to Decode PCM Signals from an external source. The
C48 Up Samples the Digital Signal to 192kHz with
32Bit resolution before the Digital to Analog process
begins. The USB Input sends basic commands (e.g.
Play/Pause, Next, Back, etc.) to the computer by using
the C48 Remote Control.
• 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 Controls
The C48 Preamplifier’s Volume and Balance Control
Circuitry provides an ideal rate of change with control
rotation.
• Equalizer Controls with Bypass
The Equalizer Circuitry provides 12dB of boost or cut
at five different center frequencies. When an Equal-
izer Control is in the center position, all Circuit Com-
ponents are removed from the Signal Path. The C48
remembers the Equalizer Circuitry Bypass Option for
each input.
• Pass-Thru Mode
The Automatic Pass-Thru Mode allows the C48 to be-
come part of a Multichannel Sound System for DVD-
Audio, SACD and Home Theater Movies.
• Alphanumeric Fluorescent Display
The Front Panel Information Display indicates the
Source Selection, Volume/Balance Levels and Setup
Mode Selections. The display intensity is adjustable.
• Remote Control with External Sensor Input
The Remote Control provides control of the C48
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 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.
• 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).
• 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 C48 will be
retained for many years.