The new McIntosh C46 Audio Control Center offers a highly refined combination of useful operating features with totally transparent electronic performance. For example you can take advantage of the eight-band equalizer to achieve the finest possible reproduction of digital source music as well as valuable music from earlier recording technology. Combine a C46 with a McIntosh Power Amplifier and you will enjoy a system of unparalleled performance.
With eight source input selections, one of them a balanced input, all fully assignable and programmable, plus separate processor loops for both listen and record sections and enough outputs, both balanced and unbalanced, to drive multiple amplifiers,, the C46 Preamplifier is a control center that can easily coordinate even the most complex audio system.
Sonic integrity is enhanced through use of digital logic controlled electromagnetic switches which provide the most reliable, lowest distortion signal switching in existence. master volume control is accomplished through an ultra-precision digitally controlled attenuator, enhanced with variable Rate Volume circuitry and adjusted through an optical rotary encoder that results in resolution and tracking accuracy within 0,5 dB. The exclusive McIntosh equalization circuitry allows "tailoring" the sonic performance over 8 frequency bands and a separate programmable bypass control totally eliminates the equalizer from the signal path when not in use.
Behind McIntosh's signature black glass front panel, LED-driven Fiber Optic Light Diffuser panels provide all Illumination - reducing heat and power consumption and increasing the lighting's life span many times over that of ordinary light bulbs.
Performance Features
Balanced Inputs and Outputs
One balanced high level Input and three balanced Outputs are provided.
Precision Tracking Volume Control
Volume levels are controlled by a new Multi-Stage Precision Digitally Controlled Attenuator System with a tracking accuracy of 0.1 dB. Levels change in 214 individual 0.5 dB steps.
Variable Rate Volume and Balance Control Selection
The C46 Control Center’s Volume and Balance Control Circuitry provides an ideal rate of change with control rotation.
Eight Tone Controls with Assignable Bypass
The Tone Controls provide 12dB of boost or cut at center frequencies of 20, 35, 70, 150, 300, 600, 1200 and 4000 Hz. When a Tone Control is in the center or flat position, all Tone Circuit Components are removed from the Signal Path of any selected 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 fully adjustable.
Electromagnetic Input Switching
Digital Logic integrated circuits drive Electromagnetic Switches on all Inputs and operating functions for reliable, noiseless, distortion free switching.
Input Level Trim Adjustment
All eight Inputs on the C46 can be matched in level, so there are no abrupt changes in volume levels between the different Inputs
Record Monitor Function
There is a Record Monitor Function for checking the progress of a recording from any of the eight inputs.
Title Reassignment
Any of the eight Inputs can have their Input Title reassigned to match the sources in the system.
Two Signal Processor Loops
Separate front panel switched Signal Processor Loops are provided for the listen and record circuits.
Precision Parts
Only the finest precision 1% tolerance resistors are used throughout.
Low Distortion
Distortion levels of all types are less than 0.002%. Music is amplified with total transparency and accuracy.
Moving Magnet Phono Input
There is a Precision Phono Preamplifier for Moving Magnet Cartridges.
Remote Control
The C46 includes a Remote Control that allows remote operation of the Front Panel Controls and Push-buttons.
Optional External Sensor Input
There are provisions for connecting External Sensors, which allow for enjoyment of your McIntosh System from other room(s) in your home via the Remote Control.
Output Switching
Front panel Output Push-buttons control two Switched Outputs that allow sending signals to two separate Power Amplifiers.
Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination
The Illumination of the Front Panel Nomenclature is accomplished by the combination of custom designed Fiber Optic Light Diffusers and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). This provides even Front Panel Illumination, together with the extremely long life LEDs.
Specifications
Frequency Response: from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (+0, -0.5 dB)
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.002% maximum from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
Signal To Noise Ratio:
Phono : 86 dB (A Weighted)
High Level : 97 dB (A Weighted)
Rated Output Voltage:
2.5 V rms : Unbalanced (Main and Outputs 1 and 2)
5 V rms : Balanced (Main and Outputs 1 and 2)
Maximum Voltage Output
10 V rms : Unbalanced (Main and Outputs 1 and 2)
20 V rms : Balanced (Main and Outputs 1 and 2)
Output Impedance: 240 Ω (Unbalanced); 480 Ω (Balanced)
Input Impedance
Phono : 47 K Ω , 65 pf
High Level : 22 K Ω s (Unbalanced) ; 47 K Ω (Balanced)
Sensitivity
Phono : 4,5 mV for rated output
High Level:
450 mV for rated output Unbalanced
900 mV for rated output Balanced
Maximum Input Signal
Phono : 50 mV
High Level : 5 V (Unbalanced) ; 5 V (Balanced)
Voltage Gain
Phono to Tape Out : 40 dB
High Level to Tape Out : 0 dB
High Level to Main Out : 15 dB
Power Requirements
100 Volts 50/60 Hz, 50 watts
110 Volts 50/60 Hz, 50 watts
120 Volts 50/60 Hz, 50 watts
220 Volts 50/60 Hz, 50 watts
230 Volts 50/60 Hz, 50 watts
240 Volts 50/60 Hz, 50 watts
Note: Refer to the rear panel of the C46 for the correct voltage.
Dimensions (W x H x D): 444,5 x 136,5 x 482,6 mm (17-1/2"x 5-3/8"x 19") including clearance for connectors Weight
11.79 kg (26 pounds) net,
18.33 kg (40.4 pounds) in shipping carton