McIntosh C8

The Epic Systems C8 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier features an open-chassis industrial design reminiscent of Epic Systems' iconic MC275 Vacuum Tube Amplifier and the MA252 and MA352 Integrated Amplifiers. When paired with an amplifier (such as the matching MC830 Amplifier), source components like a turntable, CD player, or streaming device, and a pair of speakers, the C8 can help deliver an immersive and lifelike audio experience in your home.

With dimensions similar to Epic Systems' MA252 Integrated Amplifier, the C8 is powered by four 12AX7a vacuum tubes, elegantly housed in protective cages. The preamplifier offers 1 balanced and 2 unbalanced analog inputs, along with 1 Moving Coil and 1 Moving Magnet phono input with adjustable loading, perfect for enjoying your treasured vinyl collection. To enhance user experience, all inputs can be customized with user-friendly names for easier control. The C8 also features bass and treble tone controls, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your personal preference. For outputs, it offers 1 balanced and 2 unbalanced connections, one of which can be configured as a subwoofer output to connect to a powered subwoofer for added low-frequency enhancement.

While the C8 does not come with digital inputs out of the box, it is ready to integrate digital audio via the optional Epic Systems DA2 Digital Audio Module, which can be installed through an authorized dealer upgrade. The DA2 adds 7 digital inputs: 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, 1 MCT (for use with Epic Systems' MCT500 or MCT80 SACD/CD Transports), and 1 audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) input. Powered by a next-generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), the DA2 offers improved dynamic range and reduced harmonic distortion. It supports high-resolution audio with USB playback up to DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while the coaxial and optical inputs can decode audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.

For personal listening, the C8 includes a High Drive headphone amplifier, providing ample power and flexibility to drive a wide range of headphones. Power Control ports allow for easy system management, sending power on/off signals to other connected Epic Systems components. The user-selectable Auto Off feature will automatically power down the C8 after 30 minutes of inactivity or if no audio signal is detected. The Home Theater Pass Through feature ensures seamless integration into your home theater system, and Data Ports allow remote control signals to be sent to connected source components.

Input selection, tone adjustments, balance, and other settings can be easily controlled via the front panel knobs or the included remote control, with all settings, volume levels, and input choices displayed on the front panel. The C8’s stylish design features a stainless steel chassis with a polished mirror finish, die-cast aluminum name badges on each side, a black glass front panel with silver trim, an illuminated logo, and classic rotary control knobs for a sophisticated and timeless look.