McIntosh C52 Preamplifier Review from New Record Day ....

**joeinid** · March 9, 2016, 02:50 AM

https://www.newrecordday.com/mcintos...lifier-review/

**nc42acc** · March 9, 2016, 09:24 AM

Ron is a really nice guy that is passionate about audio. Does great video reviews too.

**joeinid** · March 9, 2016, 12:13 PM

I agree, and love my C52 with a pair of MC75's.

The C52 even sounds awesome on my 28BSST2's. Awe heck, the C52 sounds great with everything like my Nord One Up Ncore amps and every other amp that I play it through.

**joeinid** · March 9, 2016, 01:00 PM

The C52 retail price: $7,000 USD

**jdandy** · March 9, 2016, 01:45 PM

Joe.......Thanks for the link. That was an interesting C52 review.

I have listened to the C50 and C52 preamplifiers through the MC452 and MC601 power amplifiers. With the C52 I believe McIntosh finally dotted all the all the i's and crossed all the t's. The digital section of the preamp finally functions correctly with all resolutions without hanging up, an issue the C2500, C48 and C50 have issues with, although I believe there are firmware updates that solve the issue. The comments on the moving coil phono stage in the C52 were accurate. McIntosh has provided excellent phono stage preamps for years. I found it interesting that Ray compared the C52 moving coil phono stage to the Pass Labs XP-15 phono stage preamp. I compared the XP-15 with my C2300 preamp's moving coil phono stage and discovered the C2300 to be more musical and quieter. There was no comparison with the XP-15 against my C1000C/P moving coil phono stage. The Pass Labs XP-15 was returned to Reno HiFi. In my opinion, I believe the new McIntosh C52 solid state preamplifier with the internal DAC is a serious contender against the plethora of preamplifiers on the market. It most certainly is the most advanced single box preamp/DAC McIntosh has produced to date. It is feature rich yet those features never get in the way of the music. Were I looking to build a McIntosh system today (I already have three), the C52 preamplifier, at the remarkable price of $7000, would be at the top of my list.

**joeinid** · March 9, 2016, 02:04 PM

Dan,

Thank you so much for the additional info. Yes, I do love mine and will eventually pair the MC452 with it as another solid state alternative for my Strads and another yet to be named speaker

. The DAC in the C52 really is wonderful. That surprised the heck out of me.

**joeinid** · March 9, 2016, 02:25 PM

**Paul** · March 10, 2016, 01:07 AM

Oh... McIntosh .........

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**Mgard** · March 14, 2016, 05:16 PM

Joe,

Congratulations on your C52 it is beautiful. I never get tired of that Classic Mac look with blue meters. I'm going to try to resist the temptation to swap out my C2300 for a C52.

~Mike

**joeinid** · March 14, 2016, 05:45 PM

Thank you Mike. It may not be the "best" in most peoples mind, but I absolutely love it and the way it sounds. Look and feel is wonderful and it's soooooo versatile. McIntosh hit a home run!

**Mgard** · March 15, 2016, 12:58 PM

So Joe,

If someone had a C2300 would they hear much difference upgrading to a C52 and it's internal DAC? Or would they be better off keeping their C2300 and upgrading their BDA-1 to a BDA-3? I think the person that has this C2300 needs to stay off forums such as AudioShark.

~Mike

**joeinid** · March 15, 2016, 02:44 PM

Hi Mike,

Hmmmm. I'd hate to have someone blow up their system on my account. My honest opinion of the new C52, to me, is a keeper. I've owned two C2300's in the past and loved them, especially with upgraded tubes. I find my C52 to be head and shoulders better than my C2300's.

Before I received the C52, I was expecting the DAC inside to be a bit of a throw-away and did not take it seriously. I was wrong. It competes extremely well against many highly regarded dacs. It's extremely quiet, does a superb job, just works, sounds wonderful and dare I say, could be my only DAC. I have not heard the BDA Bryston pieces, but as I am trying to downsize these days, I do not feel like I am giving up anything performance-wise with the preamp section nor DAC portion of my C52.

I mainly bought it for the equalizer functions but it sounds so good as is, I have not felt the need to play with the 8 bands. Just knowing that I have them seems to be enough.

The C52 paired with my MC75 reissue amps makes a killer combo. I still want the MC452 someday and that will complete the circle.

So my advice, get the C52 but please audition it if you can. Mine is not going anywhere.

Originally Posted by Mgard

So Joe,

If someone had a C2300 would they hear much difference upgrading to a C52 and it's internal DAC? Or would they be better off keeping their C2300 and upgrading their BDA-1 to a BDA-3? I think the person that has this C2300 needs to stay off forums such as AudioShark.

~Mike

**Mgard** · March 16, 2016, 08:38 AM

Joe,

Thank you for your input. You have auditioned more audio gear in your home than I ever will so I value your experience. I realize that what sounds good to one person might not have the same effect on someone else. I think the C52 bug has bit so it is time to take a closer look at this beauty.

~Mike

**joeinid** · March 16, 2016, 10:32 AM

Mike,

I really think that the C52 will be an even better match for the MC452/MC601's than the C2300. As good as the C2300 sounds, I feel the C52 will bring more to the table and balance out the system.

I still remain hopeful that a solid state version of the C1100 would come to market sometime in the future. Until then, I will happily enjoy my C52.

**kzhtoo** · March 19, 2016, 04:58 PM

I wonder how it'd sound compared to Pass XP-20. Very intrigued.

**joeinid** · March 19, 2016, 05:19 PM

I'd take the C52 over the Pass preamp.

Originally Posted by kzhtoo

I wonder how it'd sound compared to Pass XP-20. Very intrigued.

**j3brow** · March 19, 2016, 06:18 PM

Hey Joe, congrats, Beautiful preamp. The review linked above has me thinking all week long! Since you, at one time, owned the C500, can you advise how the C52 would fare as a replacement to the C500? I own all three 500 modules C/T/P. I was curious and periodically swap out the preamp models from time to time, solid state bs tube. I love em both. I also use the 500 for phono, paired with a MT10. I am strongly considering downsizing / simplifying my system. Sell my Esoteric K01X, C500, and pick up MCT450/C52. Leftover cash will go towards MC601 fund (I own 501s). What cha think??

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**joeinid** · March 19, 2016, 06:34 PM

Sounds like a plan to me.

It has been a long time since I've had the C500, but I did love it. I honestly believe I don't give up much if anything going to the C52. I have absolutely no regrets getting the C52. It's not going anywhere.

I was seriously hoping for a solid state version of the C1100. I would have bought that in a heartbeat. A friend has the C1100 and we prefer that to my Ref 6 in his system too. That says a lot. I remain hopeful that McIntosh will surprise us with a fully balanced solid state preamp in the future and dare I say, with tone controls like my C52. I have a dream.

I would absolutely prefer the MC601's over the MC501's and think they'd be awesome with the C52. I love the idea of the MCT450 but have to be honest. I've seen a few units refuse to play some discs. I don't remember if there was a slight adjustment that was needed but if that obstacle is overcome, I'd jump on one too.

I love the DAC in the C52 and the whole package, to me, is wonderful.

I don't feel that the C52 gives up anything and I love mine. I wholeheartedly recommend the C52.

**j3brow** · March 19, 2016, 07:24 PM

Thanks Joe. Very good to know.

Regarding the 1100, I always knew it would be a winner.

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**j3brow** · March 19, 2016, 08:22 PM

The comments about the quality of the C52 internal DAC is good to hear especially after so many people had issues with previous iterations of preamps with on board DACs. Honestly, I never had any complaints about the MCD1100 when I owned it, in other words, I have liked McIntosh digital.

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**joeinid** · March 19, 2016, 08:33 PM

I agree. I only thought I should sell my MCD1100 because I was told that there was better and to buy this or that DAC. I miss that piece. It was great.

I was a little apprehensive about the C52 based on some people having issues with the C50. I am happy to report the DAC inside my C52 has been rock solid.

**Mgard** · April 12, 2016, 09:54 PM

Joe,

Now that you have had your C52 for a while, have you noticed any firmware issues, clicks or pops or functions that occasionally wig out? I also was wondering if you are hearing any change in sound as the unit logs more hours. One owner said he compared the C52 DAC to his MCD1100 and couldn't hear a difference. It was that good! Iv'e got the itch Joe.

Thank you,

~Mike

**joeinid** · April 12, 2016, 10:04 PM

Mike,

I absolutely LOVE my C52. I don't know why, but I am very happy. Is it the best preamp that I've owned? No, but I am thrilled with it. I've had no issues and performance was great upon installing it and now, with many hours is performing just like it should and the sound is very satisfying. If you are referring to Josh, here's a little trivia, that's my MCD1100 he's using

. Too funny.

I said to several members how much I liked the DAC in the C52. I've had no hiccups or any issues. It's a keeper for me. The DAC in the C52 could be my, or someone else's, only DAC. I think it's that good. Would I give up a Lampizator or Lumin for it? No, but in many ways it's great. It's WAY better than I expected, honestly. I never expected to even be using it. I am a little ashamed to say that but McIntosh has a winner on their hands with the C52.

This post should help you scratch that itch.

If McIntosh were to ever make a fully balanced version of the C52, I'd buy it in a heartbeat. Full tone controls and nice DAC, I'm there!

**Mgard** · April 12, 2016, 10:23 PM

Dang Joe!,

I was hoping you would tell me it was a piece of crap! You were sorry you ever bought it and save my money!! Now I have to put together a plan to acquire one of those beauties.

Yes that was what I hoped you would write...

Thank you Joe,

P.S that was Josh and I have been dinging him too!

~Mike

**joeinid** · April 12, 2016, 10:24 PM

Yes, that was my MCD1100. A little piece of me is scattered throughout the audio world.

**Mgard** · April 12, 2016, 10:28 PM

It's nice you are such a sharing kinda guy!! Nothing like spreading the Audio Cheer....

**kzhtoo** · April 12, 2016, 10:29 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

Yes, that was my MCD1100. A little piece of me is scattered throughout the audio world.

Ok. Here's my new plan. Anything that I'd like, I'll talk Joe into buying it first. Looking forward to the many pieces of Joe that I'd own in the future.

McIntosh C52 Preamplifier Review from New Record Day ....

**joeinid** · April 12, 2016, 10:30 PM

Time to start a registry? I'm in

**Steve** · April 13, 2016, 10:36 AM

Joe...There is no doubt the C52 is an all-in-one do all pre-amp. There is no departure from the classic looks that make this category of pre-amplifer very special. Ideally suited for a streamlined high performance McIntosh system.

A lot of positive can be said by offering pre-amplification equalisation versatility. Not so easy to find alternatives that can do all of this better in such a package.

**kzhtoo** · April 18, 2016, 03:41 AM

I cannot imagine using the internal DAC (too much has been invested and sounds very good to my ears) but C52's phono stage could come in handy for those who are on the fence getting a vinyl rig. Is phono competent or even more?

**joeinid** · April 18, 2016, 08:03 AM

Originally Posted by Steve

Joe...There is no doubt the C52 is an all-in-one do all pre-amp. There is no departure from the classic looks that make this category of pre-amplifer very special. Ideally suited for a streamlined high performance McIntosh system.

A lot of positive can be said by offering pre-amplification equalization versatility. Not so easy to find alternatives that can do all of this better in such a package.

It really is Steve, I love the package, looks and sound of the C52. Other preamps in my stable were better at certain things, but the C52 is a well rounded, musically satisfying piece.

Originally Posted by kzhtoo

I cannot imagine using the internal DAC (too much has been invested and sounds very good to my ears) but C52's phono stage could come in handy for those who are on the fence getting a vinyl rig. Is phono competent or even more?

No experience with the phono section yet, but hopefully soon. The internal DAC is outstanding.

**Mgard** · April 18, 2016, 05:27 PM

Hey Joe,

(Sounds like a Jimi Hendrix song)... What is your thoughts on the new wireless control that comes with the C52? And is McIntosh still using the same boxes for the higher end units? Someone was saying smaller devices do not have the same industrial strength boxes. Does the quality of the knobs and things have the same feel as your old C2300's? I still haven't touched one yet but I am getting closer. If I were to sell my C2300, I would have just about enough saved to get the C52. Can you throw me another bone as to how it sounds, please.....

Do you happen to know who's DAC chip Mac is using in the C52? Not that it matters. If it sounds good who cares right?

**joeinid** · April 18, 2016, 07:12 PM

Hi Mike,

The controls are typical silky smooth McIntosh. Love that.

The remote, while skinnier and narrower, fits nicely in my hand. I'd love an optional smaller one with just the basic volume and a few other functions like source. I almost always listen with the remote in hand or very close by and change volume a lot. This one feels great and I prefer it over the previous one.

I honestly don't remember what DAC chips(s) the C52 uses, but I have ZERO complaints. Works like a charm for me. I seriously wanted the new C1100 but could not or did not want to justify it, mainly for the 6 dozen tubes inside

. I really wanted a fully balanced SS version but that will have to wait until McIntosh deems us worthy. It's ok because I do not in anyway feel the performance of the C52 lacking. Consider the C52 with my stamp of approval.

**Mgard** · April 18, 2016, 08:08 PM

Thanks Joe,

I won't bug you anymore. Like the Nike commercial "Just Do It"!

~Mike

**joeinid** · April 18, 2016, 10:51 PM

Mike,

It's no bother, really. You and everyone else can ask all you want. My taste in gear does not lean to the absolute truth. I love the music to move me. I love it a little sweet and full. That's what the C52 gives me. I'm starting to find and stick with the gear that I love. My C52 and MC75's are wonderful. My C52 on my Bryston 28BSST2's is outstanding too. Balance is the key for me.

It's not a trivial thing for someone to just swap preamps. I've swapped gear too often but this is a keeper.

Originally Posted by Mgard

Thanks Joe,

I won't bug you anymore. Like the Nike commercial "Just Do It"!

~Mike

**miner42** · May 18, 2016, 01:56 PM

Thank you Joe for the in depth review. I am contemplating a MCT450 transport but my current DAC on my MAC6700 will not handle the SACD signal. The C2300/MC4523 in my other system has a MCD500 with it now. May move the MCD500 to the MAC6700, replace my C2300 with C52 and add the MCT450. Thanks for spending my Rx money Joe.

**joeinid** · May 18, 2016, 09:13 PM

Originally Posted by miner42

Thank you Joe for the in depth review. I am contemplating a MCT450 transport but my current DAC on my MAC6700 will not handle the SACD signal. The C2300/MC4523 in my other system has a MCD500 with it now. May move the MCD500 to the MAC6700, replace my C2300 with C52 and add the MCT450. Thanks for spending my Rx money Joe.

You are so very welcome.

I do love your plan though. Makes perfect sense to me.

Thread: McIntosh C52 Preamplifier Review from New Record Day ....