McIntosh C42 (1999–2002)

Name: Mcintosh C42
Brand: Mcintosh

A solid-state audio control center with precision equalization and balanced digital attenuation, built for high-fidelity signal management.

Overview

The McIntosh C42 Audio Control Center is a solid-state preamplifier made from 1999 to 2002. It is based on the earlier C40 and works as a high-precision control amplifier with advanced signal routing and equalization. It has an 8-band program equalizer, dual input selectors so you can record one source and listen to another, and a fully balanced digital control attenuator with 0.5 dB steps across 213 levels. It comes with a wireless remote (HR-100) and a source trim function for aligning input levels. A processor loop lets you add external equalizers to both the playback and recording paths.

Specifications

Frequency response	20 Hz ~ 20 kHz +0, -0.5 dB
Total harmonic distortion	0.002% or less (20 Hz to 20 kHz at rated output)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-Weighted)	Phono: 86 dB, High Level: 97 dB
Rated output	2.5 Vrms (Main, Output1, 2)
Maximum output voltage	10 Vrms (Main, Output1, 2)
Output impedance	240 Ω
Input impedance	Phono: 47 kΩ, 65 pF; High Level: 22 kΩ
Input sensitivity (for rated output)	Phono: 4.5 mV; High Level: 450 mV
Maximum input signal	Phono: 50 mV; High Level: 5 V
Voltage gain	Phono → Tape out: 40 dB; High Level → Tape out: 0 dB; High Level → Main out: 15 dB
8-band program equalizer	20 Hz, 35 Hz, 70 Hz, 150 Hz, 300 Hz, 600 Hz, 1.2 kHz, 4 kHz ± 12 dB
Power supply	100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz
Power consumption	30 W
Dimensions (W x H x D)	445 x 150 x 470 mm (including knobs and terminals)
Weight	11.5 kg
Included accessory	Wireless Remote Control HR-100

Design

The C42 is an improved C40, with refined circuitry and layout. It uses high-precision metal-coated resistors and high-quality polypropylene capacitors. The fully balanced digital control attenuator gives 0.5 dB steps over 213 levels and a 116 dB dynamic range. It uses four units for balanced transmission, driven by 16-bit serial data with less than 0.05 dB step error. A built-in zero-crossing detector keeps digital noise down during volume changes. The signal path is optimized by separating the controller and processing circuits. A reed relay-type electromagnetic switch handles nine input/output signals inside an inert gas-filled glass tube. The contacts are gold-plated and then re-plated with rhodium and rhenium. The 8-band equalizer extends the conventional 5-band design and can be switched between playback and recording channels. A center-off position takes it out of the signal path completely. A blue 4-digit fluorescent display shows volume in dB or percentage, plus balance settings. The front panel has a processor loop on/off switch and a locker switch that keeps memory during standby.

Market

The McIntosh C42 has a current market value of $2,599 for used units in very good condition. Listings note "Serviced" and "Tested Working" examples available.