McIntosh Labs
Product Description
2020 Best High-End Stereo Preamplifier
Winner of 2021 Sound + Image Award
2021 Highlight of the Year
The Absolute Sound Editors' Choice Award Winner 2022
The C53 Preamplifier is ready to serve in your home audio system for many years – even decades – all while delivering unmatched audio quality. Following the digital audio precedent set in our current solid state integrated amplifiers, the C53 stereo preamplifier features an upgradeable digital audio module. But unlike our integrated amplifiers that use our DA1 Digital Audio Module, the C53 is the first to use our new, more advanced DA2 Digital Audio Module.
"Competes with the best I've heard despite the complexity of its design, I rate the McIntosh C53 as one of the best preamplifiers I've ever heard or used in my system." Named 2020 Best High-End Stereo Preamplifier. - Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity
The DA2 builds upon the DA1 with an expanded set of capabilities. In addition to having all the same connections as the DA1 (2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB and 1 proprietary MCT for use with our MCT series of SACD/CD Transports), a new audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)1 connection is included on the DA2. This allows it to be connected to TVs with a compatible HDMI (ARC) output to bring your TV sound to a new level of audio performance by listening to it through your home stereo system. Popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby® and DTS® are supported and will be expertly converted to 2-channel audio for proper playback through the C53. When CEC communication is enabled in both the C53 and your TV, your TV remote can control the power and volume of the C53.
The C53 is a "fundamentally well designed, well behaved" preamplifier that offers "fantastic sound quality." Considering price, build quality and service "the C53 simply checks all boxes and then some" while punching "far ahead of its asking price,Highly recommended, A+++!" - Audiophile Style
Additionally, the DA2s USB input can support native playback of up to DSD512, surpassing the DSD256 limit of the DA1. This increased DSD playback support is thanks to the next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that powers the DA2. This audiophile-grade DAC is highlighted by both an improved dynamic range and total harmonic distortion compared to the DA1. The USB input also supports DXD up to 384kHz. The coax and optical inputs can decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz for high resolution audio playback. Rounding out the DA2 is an MCT input that offers a secure, custom DSD connection for playback of the high definition audio found on SACDs when paired with our MCT series of SACD/CD Transports to produce the best possible sound quality from your SACD collection.
The MC462 Amplifier and C53 Preamplifier named 2021 "Stereo Pre-Power Amplifiers of the Year Over AU$20,000." - Sound+Image
In addition to the 7 digital inputs found in the DA2 module, the C53 also has 9 analog inputs, giving it a nearly inexhaustible number of 16 total inputs for connecting all your music sources. The analog inputs consist of 3 balanced and 4 unbalanced connections, plus 1 Moving Coil and 1 Moving Magnet phono inputs for plugging in your trusted turntable. Outputs include 3 variable balanced and unbalanced connections along with 1 fixed unbalanced connection.
"The C53 replaces a whole shelf-full of components by rolling linestage, phonostages, DAC, equalizer, and headphone amp into a single elegant box that, while not small, is hardly large in view of everything it does. I can’t think of another component that manages to do so much so superlatively well, with no compromises in any ways that matter to me as an audio critic and music lover." - The Absolute Sound
Tone controls include an 8-band analog equalizer; each band can be adjusted ± 12dB so you can fine tune your music just the way you like. Our High Drive Headphone Amplifier can power virtually any pair of headphones, while Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) can bring an added dimension to your music. Home Theater Pass Through lets the C53 be seamlessly integrated into your home theater system. Power Control ports let you easily turn other connected McIntosh components on and off, while the Data Ports can send remote control commands to connected source components.
The C53/MC462 combo sounded "super-smooth and superbly balanced at all times, whilst never letting the smoothness of their delivery interfere with their ability to resolve a level of detail, [which] means you will hear nuances you just will not hear with lesser amplifiers." - Audio Esoterica
The C53 is one of many McIntosh products to receive Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs. As a Roon Tested partner, McIntosh has provided equipment to Roon for testing with a variety of different operating systems and computers, and shared information about its design and capabilities.
"Its sound is natural and universal. As a preamplifier it is a real titan of possibilities and a representative of high-end sound quality." Winner of "Highlight of the Year" award. - Hi-Fi i Muzyka
All this audio technology is packaged inside the C53’s classic McIntosh design featuring a black glass front panel backlit by direct LED lighting, blue meters, rotary knobs, an illuminated logo and aluminum end caps. An attractive polished stainless steel chassis finishes the distinguished look. It can be paired with an assortment of amplifiers, CD players, turntables, tuners, media streamers, room correction devices and speakers to complete your home audio system. Contact us at Liptons Audio Video to learn more.
The HDMI (ARC) input will only play audio from a compatible TV. It will not pass video to or from a TV, or play audio from any non-TV source.
The terms HDMI, HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.
Dolby is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories.
DTS, DTS-HD, the Symbol, & DTS or DTS-HD and the Symbol together are registered trademarks of DTS, Inc. © DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Shipping
Processing/Shipping Time
All online orders are typically processed within 1-2 business days. Orders received after 1pm EST or on weekends will be processed on the next business day.
Our business hours are Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm EST.
Due to our inventory management practices, we do not maintain a large stock of products; instead, most items are sourced from our suppliers upon order. We do focus on having a broad selection of brands and models for in store demo purposes. This may impact shipping times, as items are procured and prepared for shipment as soon as possible. If your item is not in stock, we will send you an email to update you on the status of your order. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
- Standard Delivery for in stock items is between 2-3 business days within Ontario & Quebec, 3-5 business days for Eastern Canada and 4-7 business days for Western Canada. Northern or remote Canadian customers should contact us to confirm shipping availability and costs. During peak sales periods (for example Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Boxing Day/Week) up to an additional 5 (five) business days may be needed.
- Items not in stock will be shipped to our Newmarket store and then shipped to you. Turnaround time may depend on the manufacturer/distributor. If a manufacturer or distributor has stock of the item, then we can normally expect to receive the product within 10 business days at which point we will immediately ship it to you.
- If we become aware that delivery time to you will exceed 16 business days we will contact you to confirm the order or review options.
RETURNS, EXCHANGES & WARRANTY CLAIMS
If your product is damaged, defective, or dead on arrival you are eligible for a refund or exchange within 15 days of the product being delivered to you.
If you are not satisfied with your purchase and would like to request an exchange, please note the following:
- All returns and exchanges will only be accepted on products with no damage due to misuse and have all original packaging, accessories, manuals and the original sales receipt.
- Refunds paid by credit card/PayPal will be returned in the same method payment was received when possible. Wire Transfer payments will be refunded in the form of company check or E-Transfer. For exchanges with a difference in value, the balance will be charged or refunded in the same method as the original payment was received.
- Liptons Audio Video reserves the right to assess whether the product is defective or not. Products with physical damage will not be accepted for refund or exchange.
- Exchanges will be offered only on non-special order items with return shipping at the buyer's expense and must be shipped with insurance reflecting the transaction value and must ship via a trackable courier/delivery company. Exchanges will only apply to unopened products received in new condition
- Products with non matching serial numbers to either the packaging or the recorded Serial number associated with the transaction are not eligible for refunds or exchanges
- Products with modified or missing serial numbers/UPC codes or other identifying information are not eligible for refunds or exchanges
- Products that are not returned with all original packaging, equipment, accessories, manuals and software will not be refunded or will be charged a restocking fee at the discretion of Liptons Audio Video.
- Products must be new and show no signs of use. Any sign of use – Including installation, scratches or other signs of use such as physical marking, painted grills, screw holes, cut wires or similar would not be returnable
- Equipment sustaining damage from operation or misuse will be deferred to the manufacturer's warranty and replacement policies.
- Replaced items will be exchanged for the same model
- If a product you purchased from us proves to be defective within 15 days from purchase, we will replace it with an equivalent new unit at no charge. If the item is returned through shipping, the exchange will be processed once we receive the parcels & confirm that the product is not working. Exchange processing will take 10-20 business days from the day we receive the parcel.
Final Sale Items/Exclusions
- Special order items including cut to length cabling and custom furniture
- Headphones/earbuds/in-ear headphones for hygienic reasons
- Turntable cartridges/styli
- Projector lamps
- Installed in-ceiling, in-wall speakers or subwoofers
- No refunds or exchanges on products purchased for commercial use.
- Clearance, consignment items.
Online Order Returns/Exchanges Process
Please contact us to begin our online return process at info@liptons.ca. Once we have received the details about your order, we will generate a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and send you the RMA form to be completed and sent back with the parcel.
Pack the item back in its original packaging with all parts, accessories and manuals. We recommend packing the item into an additional box meant for shipping. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. Any damages that incur during return shipping will also be the responsibility of the customer.
In the event the item was offered free shipping, the original shipping charges and handling fees, for the returned item(s), will be deducted from the refund. If the item is refused and returned to Liptons Audio Video without record of cause and evidence of damage any return freight costs will also be deducted from the refund.
In Store Returns & Exchanges
Returns on damaged, defective and DOA products, as well as exchanges can be made in store. Please note our store hours https://liptons.ca/pages/contact and be sure to bring your receipt or online order confirmation.
Product Warranty
All new products carry full manufacturer warranty which varies for each product category and manufacturer. Refer to the manufacturer’s warranty information for exact details.
Demo products come with either the full manufacturer warranty or the balance of manufacturer warranty unless otherwise specified.
Open Box products come with either the full manufacturer warranty or the balance of manufacturer warranty unless otherwise specified.
Used and Consignment pieces will have individually specified warranty. If no warranty is listed, no warranty is available, but the unit has been tested in store and determined to be working properly unless otherwise specified.
Installation Warranty
All Liptons Audio Video installations come with a one-year warranty against workmanship performed by us. Defective equipment covered under manufacturer warranty is subject to a removal and reinstallation charge of one hour at our current installation rates. Installation warranty claims can be made within one year of installation date by phone at 905-898-7133 or email at info@liptons.ca
If you have any questions or concerns regarding product returns, exchanges and warranty claims, please call is at 905-898-7133 or email info@liptons.ca
