McIntosh C41 (2000–2003)
Two-channel solid state preamplifier from McIntosh Labs with analog circuitry, phono input, and remote control.
Overview
The McIntosh C41 is a 2-channel solid state audio control center produced by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. from 2000 to 2003. It functions as a full-featured analog preamplifier with both phono and high-level inputs, tone and trim controls, and processor loops for listening and recording. The C41 includes XLR inputs and outputs, supports three pre-outs for driving multiple amplifiers, and uses real potentiometers for volume and balance. It was originally priced at $3,500 and is part of the C4x series, positioned between the C40 and C42. Unlike the C42, it lacks an 8-band equalizer but otherwise shares a similar sonic character.
Specifications
| Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz, +0 / -0.5dB |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.002% maximum from 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 10 mV input : 90 dB; Phono(IHF):84dB; Output:103dB; High level (IHF) : 93 dB |
| Gain | Phono:60dB; High level : 20 dB |
| Rated Voltage Output | 2.5Vrms (balanced and unbalanced) |
| Maximum Voltage Output | 8Vrms |
| Maximum power output | 3 pre-out (Main, 1, 2) : 10 v |
| Input impedance | Phono : 47k Ω / 65 pF; High level : 22k Ω |
| Output Impedance | 250 ohms |
| Tone control | ± 12 dB (Bass @ 20Hz, Treble @ 10kHz) |
| Input Sensitivity Phono | 2.5mV for rated output (0.5mV IHF) |
| Input Sensitivity High level | 250mV for rated output (50mV IHF) |
| Maximum Input Signal Phono | 90mV |
| Maximum Input Signal High level | 10V |
| Voltage Gain Phono to tape | 40dB |
| Voltage Gain High level to tape | 0dB |
| Power Requirements | 120V 50/60Hz, 20W |
| External dimensions | Width 445 x Height 137 x Depth 445 mm |
| Dimensions (h x w x d) inch | 5.44 x 17.5 x 17.5 |
| Knob clearance | 0.75" (1.9 cm) |
| Weight | 23 lbs. (10.5kg) net |
Design
The C41 is a completely analog, solid state preamplifier featuring real potentiometers for volume and balance control. It includes a phono input, XLR inputs and outputs, and processor loops for listening and recording. A relay controls the loudness circuit: normally closed to bypass the circuit, it opens to engage a high-cut filter that attenuates high frequencies, creating the effect of low-frequency boost at low volumes. The unit includes a remote and is designed to run three separate amplifiers via its pre-outs.
Product Family
The McIntosh C41 is part of the C4x series of preamplifiers, which includes the C40, C41, C42, and C43. It sits above the C40 and below the C42 in the lineup. It shares a similar sound signature with the C42 but lacks the 8-band EQ found in that model.
Market
The power supply is the most common source of failure in McIntosh preamps. A stuck-open fault relay in one channel can cause the loudness circuit to remain engaged, resulting in perceived bass loss in the other channel. SkyFi Audio's testing process includes lubricating and cleaning switches and potentiometers with high-quality contact cleaner, and the loudness control relay can be replaced if faulty. One listing noted a Physical Condition of 8 and Working Condition of 10 on SkyFi’s scale, including remote, power cord, and manual, but no original box.
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