Thank You

Your decision to own this McIntosh C220 Tube Preampli- fier ranks you at the very top among discriminating music listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh dedica- tion to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.

Please take a short time to read the information in this manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all the features and functions of your new McIntosh.

Please Take A Moment

The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer name are important to you for possible insurance claim or future service. The spaces below have been provided for you to record that information:

Serial Number: __________________________________

Purchase Date: __________________________________

Dealer Name: ___________________________________

Technical Assistance

If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar with your McIntosh equipment and any other brands that may be part of your system. If you or your Dealer wish additional help concerning a suspected problem, you can receive technical assistance for all McIntosh products at:

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, New York 13903

Phone: 607-723-1545

Fax: 607-724-0549

Customer Service

If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in need of repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You can also return it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service Department. For assistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the McIntosh Service Department at:

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, New York 13903

Phone: 607-723-3515

Fax: 607-723-1917

Copyright 2006 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

Table of Contents

 

Safety Instructions

2

Thank You and Please Take a Moment

3

Technical Assistance and Customer Service

.................... 3

Table of Contents

3

General Information

4

Connector and Cable Information

4

Introduction

5

Performance Features

5

Dimensions

6

Installation

7

Connections:

 

Rear Panel Connections

8

How to Connect the C220

9

Connection Diagram (Separate Sheet)

CD1 and CD2

Front Panel Features:

 

Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack . 10

Setup:

 

How to Operate the Setup Mode

11

Default Settings

11

Firmware Version

11

Balance

11

Trim Level Adjustment

11

Re-Title Inputs

12

Display Brightness

12

Power Control Triggers

13

Accessory Power Control

13

Auto Tone

13

Tube LED

13

Remote Control Selection

13

Remote Control:

 

Remote Control Push-buttons

14

How to Operate by Remote Control

15

Operation:

 

How to Operate the C220

16

Additional Information:

 

Specifications

18

Packing Instruction

19

3

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McIntosh C220 owner manual Thank You, Please Take a Moment, Technical Assistance, Customer Service, Table of Contents

C220 specifications

The McIntosh C220 is a high-performance preamplifier that embodies the brand's legacy of premium audio equipment, delivering an exceptional listening experience. Renowned for its remarkable sound quality and robust build, the C220 is designed for both audiophiles and music enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the McIntosh C220 is its advanced audio circuitry. Utilizing a fully balanced design, the preamplifier minimizes noise and distortion by maintaining a symmetrical signal path. This design not only enhances sound clarity but also ensures that the C220 delivers an incredibly dynamic range, capturing the intricate details of recordings. With an impressive frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, listeners can expect a faithful reproduction of high and low frequencies.

The C220 is equipped with multiple inputs, including both analog and digital connections, accommodating a wide array of audio sources. It features six analog inputs, an eight-channel digital input via the USB port, and a Bluetooth option, allowing for seamless connectivity with modern devices. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any audio system, enabling users to enjoy their favorite music from various sources.

Additionally, the McIntosh C220 incorporates the brand's famous AutoFormer technology. This innovative feature allows users to connect their speakers to the preamp while ensuring the highest level of performance and protection. The AutoFormer adjusts the speaker impedance, providing optimal power transfer and exceptional audio quality, regardless of the speakers used.

Another crucial aspect of the C220 is the dual analog VU meters. These iconic meters not only add an aesthetic appeal but also provide real-time feedback on the audio signal level, allowing users to monitor their settings visually. This feature enhances the overall experience, especially in a home audio setup.

The build quality of the McIntosh C220 further reinforces its stature. With a sleek, classic design featuring a glass front panel, aluminum chassis, and robust components, this preamplifier is not just functional but also a visually striking piece of equipment.

In summary, the McIntosh C220 combines advanced technology with timeless design, delivering impressive sound quality and versatility. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audio purist, the C220 serves as an outstanding centerpiece for any high-fidelity audio system. Its rich feature set, including multiple inputs, balanced audio circuitry, and beautiful aesthetic, solidifies its status as a premier choice in the world of audio preamplifiers.