Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the C2500
The McIntosh C2500 is a high-end vacuum tube stereo preamplifier featuring six 12AX7A dual triode tubes for warm, romantic sound signature combined with modern digital capabilities. It includes a built-in DAC supporting up to 32-bit/192kHz, five digital inputs (2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB), six unbalanced and two balanced high-level inputs, plus dedicated MM and MC phono stages. Key features include electromagnetic input switching, precision tracking volume control, variable rate controls, home theater pass-through, high-drive headphone amplifier (20-600 ohms), and power/data control ports. Multiple outputs allow connection to up to three stereo power amps. Renowned for spectacular dynamics, accurate tonality, detail retrieval, and generous soundstage. Released around 2013-2015, it is now discontinued and available primarily on the used market.
Specifications
Power Specifications
Amplification power output and characteristics
- Input Sensitivity
- 0.5V RMS
- Input Impedance
- 22000Ω
- Max Input Voltage
- 8.0V RMS
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.080%
- SNR
- 100 dB
- Output Voltage
- 2.5V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 220Ω
- Max Output Voltage
- 8.0V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Inputs
- USB, Optical, Coaxial
- Analog Inputs
- RCA, XLR
- Analog Outputs
- RCA, XLR, Headphone
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 444.5 × 193.7 × 457.2 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 13.8 kg (30 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions