McIntosh C200 (2000–2006)
A dual-chassis solid-state stereo preamplifier with fully balanced circuitry and separate MM/MC phono stages.
Overview
The McIntosh C200 is a high-end stereo preamplifier introduced in 2000 as the flagship model from McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. It features a dual-chassis design, with the C200C Controller handling power and control systems and the C200P Preamplifier housing the analog signal circuits. Built for precision, it offers fully balanced circuitry across all stages, advanced input and volume control switching, and support for both MM and MC phono inputs with dedicated equalization. The unit was designed to deliver exceptional transparency and dynamic fidelity, earning praise for its ability to preserve tonal purity and musical rhythm across the full dynamic range.
Specifications
| Frequency response | 10 Hz - 40 kHz +0, -0.5 dB |
| Rated output | 2.5 V (balanced / unbalanced, main, switched 1/2 respectively) |
| Output impedance | 100 Ω (Balanced), 50 Ω (Unbalanced) |
| Maximum output voltage | 25.0 V (balanced main/switched), 12.0 V (unbalanced main/switched) (10 Hz - 40 kHz) |
| Total harmonic distortion | 0.002% maximum (20 Hz - 20 kHz at rated output) |
| Input sensitivity | Phono: 4.4 mV (0.5 mV IHF at 2.5 V output); High Level: 450 mV (50 mV IHF at 2.5 V output) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio (A-weighted) | Phono: 86 dB; High Level: 98 dB |
| Maximum input signal | Phono MM: 50 mV; High Level: 5 V (balanced) |
| Input impedance | Phono MM: 47 kΩ; Phono MC: 5 Ω; High Level (balanced): 44 kΩ; High Level (unbalanced): 22 kΩ |
| Voltage gain | 70 dB (MC → Tape out); 40 dB (MM → Tape out); 0 dB (High Level → Tape out) |
| Phono stages | MM and MC |
| Inputs | Three balanced and eight unbalanced pairs |
| Outputs | Three balanced and three unbalanced pairs |
| AC outlets | Switched: 4; Unswitched: 1 |
| Power requirements | AC 100V |
| Power consumption | 25W |
| Dimensions (per chassis) | 444 mm (W) x 137 mm (H) x 508 mm (D) |
| Weight | 18.4 kg (Control Part), 15.9 kg (Preamplifier Part) |
| Accessories | Wireless Remote Control |
Design
The C200 uses a dual-chassis configuration with fully balanced circuitry throughout. The C200C Controller contains the power and control systems, while the C200P Preamplifier houses the analog signal circuits. Input switching and volume control are implemented separately on the positive and negative sides of each channel. Each amplifier section has its own isolated power supply with dual wiring to the signal circuit. Monolithic ceramic capacitors are used in parallel with electrolytic capacitors in the power supply. The power transformer is double-shielded with copper and iron. Relay switches feature high-grade gold-plated contacts with rhodium and ruthenium plating and are filled with inert gas. The MC input uses a dedicated transformer with silver wire windings inside a mu-metal shield. Volume control is handled by four microprocessor-controlled logarithmic attenuators per channel, offering 213 steps in 0.5 dB increments with ±0.05 dB accuracy. Three speed patterns—Slow, Fast, and VRV—are available. A discrete balance amplifier follows the volume stage, and a muting circuit eliminates power-on/off noise. Connectors are gold-plated, and a microprocessor reset is triggered by holding the red power button for over two seconds. Non-volatile memory retains calibration via a rocker switch during extended disuse. The unit includes a setup menu, home theater pass-through for front L/R signals, an extra audio output for multi-amplifier systems, and a control jack to power connected amplifiers. The remote control is compatible with other McIntosh CD players and tuners.
Context
The McIntosh C200 was announced as the company's flagship preamplifier, inheriting the dual-chassis design from the earlier C100. It was introduced in 2000, three years before the release of the MC501 monoblock amplifier. Reviewers described it as a "deadly serious, no-holds-barred control center" and praised its transparency, rhythm, and tonal purity. It was compared favorably to the C220 and other preamplifiers in its price range.
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