C42 Audio Control Center

Audio Control Center
See SYSTEMS ENGINEERING in main brochure for more on McIntosh system architectures.
ow much better will the next recording format be? And the one after that? More to the point, will you be able to appreciate the improvement? The C42 is for discriminating listeners who delight in the nuances revealed only by the most exceptional audio equipment. Generously appointed, the C42 heralds a new standard for audio purity.

Featured Technologies

SILENT ELECTROMAGNETIC SWITCHING. In a conventional preamp, an input signal travels to a switch, and then travels to the input circuitry. Unfortunately, the farther a signal must travel, the more distorted it becomes. And this says nothing of what detritus a dirty switch can add to the signal. McIntosh Silent Electromagnetic Switching literally brings the switch to the input. The distortion-free switch consists of a glass tube containing oxygen-free gas and two signal leads separated by mere thousandths of an inch. The tube sits in a multilayer copper coil and the entire assembly is encased in shock-absorbent plastic. When DC voltage is applied to the coil in response to a switching command, current flow creates a magnetic field that causes the leads to bend and contact one another, completing the circuit. The inert gas eliminates corrosion of the contacts, ensuring a low-resistance, distortion-free switch that never needs cleaning. Another benefit is that non-selected inputs are truly off, eliminating potential sources of interference. PRECISION, OPTICALLY REGULATED VOLUME CONTROL. If McIntosh electromagnetic switching brings the switch to the input, then the C42s volume control brings the attenuator to the input. The volume knob actually operates an optical rotary encoder with 128 steps; it sends instructions at the speed of light to the digitally controlled attenuator located near the inputs. Together they provide 0.5dB resolution with 0.05dB accuracy.

sealed glass tube

lead circuit completes when leads touch The input selectors on McIntosh Control Centers actually control state-of-the-art silent electromagnetic switches.
switching command causes DC voltage at coil

C42 Companions

About the C42 Companion Products
The McIntosh products shown at right are logical companions for the C42. Separate literature is available. Check with your McIntosh dealer for any late additions. McIntosh speaker systems are also covered in detail in separate literature. MC352 Power Amplifier, MDA700 D/A Converter, and MCD751 CD Transport. The doublebalanced MC352 is designed to complement the C42. Add the MDA700 converter with balanced output plus the MCD751 transport for a balanced audio system and a profound musical experience. MR7084 AM/FM Tuner. A natural companion, the MR7084 tuner is a thoroughly engineered broadcast monitor that reveals the upper limits of AM and FM performance. RCT3 Remote Translator. The Translator allows non-McIntosh components to be operated with a McIntosh handheld remote or keypad controller. It connects to the data outputs on the C42. PC4 AC Power Controller. The PC4 provides five AC outlets (four switched) for turning nonMcIntosh components on and off automatically when it is connected to the power control output of a Control Center or Integrated Amplifier. R649 IR Sensor. With switching for two power amps and a connector for an external sensor, the C42 can supply music to a second zone with remote operation via the R649 wall-mount sensor.

MC352 POWER AMPLIFIER

MDA700 D/A CONVERTER
As seen on the inside surface of this demonstration piece, the screening process for a McIntosh glass panel entails as many as 12 individual layers. The glass panels are cut using a computer-controlled high-pressure water jet.

MCD751 CD TRANSPORT

MR7084 AM/FM TUNER
Featured Technologies (contd.)
EXCLUSIVE MCINTOSH 8-BAND EQUALIZER. The equalizer provides 12dB of boost or cut at center frequencies of 20, 35, 70, 150, 300, 600, 1200, and 4000Hz. Notice that the center frequencies are clustered at the lower end of the spectrum where room correction is most often needed. When an equalizer control is in the center or flat position, its circuit components are completely removed from the signal path. PROGRAMMABLE SOURCE TRIM. A traditional McIntosh feature that allows matching the output levels of different source components, source trim in the C42 establishes new standards for audio purity and operating convenience. Instead of adjusting individual potentiometers, the trim for each input is stored electronically as a volume offset, using the tuner level as the standard. CONTROL DATA OUTPUTS. To facilitate system integration, the C42 outputs control data for source components. This allows remote operation of non-McIntosh components either by direct connection to compatible data inputs or via a McIntosh Remote Translator, a learning device that makes it possible to operate virtually any component with the C42s remote. BALANCED CONNECTIONS. A premium feature not usually found in consumer audio gear, balanced connections guard against induced noise and allow long cable runs without compromising sound quality. A balanced connection between the C42 and the MC352 Power Amp provides 40dB more noise protection than would an unbalanced (single-ended) connection. REMOTE POWER CONTROL. The C42 has four separate remote power jacks (main, accessory, switched 1, switched 2) that enable it to turn connected power amps on/off.
R649 IR SENSOR RCT3 REMOTE TRANSLATOR

PC4 AC POWER CONTROLLER

ost consumer electronics products are necessarily viewed as short-term investments because either they dont last or they quickly become obsolete in some way. Coincidentally, manufacturers supply a steady stream of new-and-improved products that you can buy. Again. Behind every McIntosh is a fifty-year heritage of excellence, proudly carried forward by every employee. No production
lines, no price-point engineering, no planned obsolescence. McIntosh equipment is made to sound better and last longer. When McIntosh products are presented to customers, the criteria they have been conditioned to overlook reliability, longevity, craftsmanship, ease-of-use, adaptability, pride of ownership suddenly leap to the top of their list. The choice becomes clear: There is nothing like a McIntosh.

FEATURES

Extra-wide dynamic range Ultra-low distortion Exclusive McIntosh 8-band equalizer Silent electromagnetic switching Precision, optically regulated volume control with digital readout in decibels or percent Programmable source trim 9 source selections including MM phono Balanced input 3 balanced outputs (Main, Line 1, Line 2) Independent listen and record selection Dual processor loops Control data output for source components Remote power control (1 main, 1 accessory, 2 switched) Separate electronic regulators for each preamplifier section Polyester coupling capacitors Low-noise 1% metal film resistors throughout Ultra-precision (.5%) metal film resistors and 1% polypropylene capacitors for phono equalization Gold-plated input and output jacks Modular construction with steel chassis Glass front panel with illuminated nomenclature Infrared remote control Connector for external IR sensor Headphone jack

SPECIFICATIONS

Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz, +0 / -0.5dB Rated Voltage Output 2.5Vrms (balanced and unbalanced) Maximum Voltage Output 10Vrms Output Impedance 240 ohms Total Harmonic Distortion 0.002% maximum from 20Hz to 20KHz Input Sensitivity Phono: 4.5mV for rated output High level: 450mV for rated output Maximum Input Signal MM phono: 50mV High level: 5V A-Weighted Signal-to-Noise Ratio Phono: 86dB High level: 97dB Input Impedance Phono: 47k ohms, 65pf High level: 22k ohms Voltage Gain Phono to tape: 40dB High level to tape: 0dB High level to main: 15dB Power Requirements 100V 50/60Hz, 30W 110V 50/60Hz, 30W 120V 50/60Hz, 30W 220V 50/60Hz, 30W 230V 50/60Hz, 30W 240V 50/60Hz, 30W Dimensions (h x w x d) inch: 5.375 x 17.5 x 17.5 cm: 13.7 x 44.5 x 44.5 includes clearance for connectors Weight 25.5 lbs. (11.6kg) net 40 lbs. (18.2kg) shipping
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc., 2 Chambers Street, Binghamton, New York 13903 tel (607) 7233512 U.S. toll-free (888) 9793737 fax (607) 7723308 www.mcintoshlabs.com

0999.C42.7-5k.essecomm

OWNERS MANUAL

C42 Audio Control Center

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 FAX: 607-724-0549
Thank You, Please Take A Moment, Customer Service and Table of Contents

Thank You

Your decision to own this McIntosh C42 Audio Control Center ranks you at the very top among discriminating music listeners. You now have The Best. The McIntosh dedication 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.

Table of Contents

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 Sales Corporation 661 W. Redondo Beach Blvd. Gardena, CA 90247 Phone: 888-979-3737 Fax: 310-217-9288
Thank You... 2 Please Take a Moment.. 2 Technical Support.. 2 Customer Service... 2 Table of Contents... 2 Safety Instructions... 3 Introduction... 4 Performance Features... 4 Installation... 5 Rear Panel Connections and Switch.. 6 How to Connect the C42... 7 Front Panel Controls, Displays, Push-Buttons, and Switch... 8 How to Trim Input Volume Levels. 9 How to Operate the C42.. 10 Remote Control Push-Buttons... 11 How to Operate by Remote Control.. 12 Specifications and Performance Chart.. 14 Packing Instruction... 15
NOTES: 1. The following Connecting Cable is available from the McIntosh Parts Department: Data and Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202 Six foot, shielded 2 conductor, with 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plugs on each end. 2. For additional connection information, refer to the owners manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the C42 Audio Control Center. 3. There is a built-in turn on delay which will mute the outputs for approximately two seconds when turned on. 4. dB is an abbreviation of the word decibel, which is a unit measure of sound intensity. 5. Balanced and Unbalanced Inputs and Outputs can be mixed. For example, you may connect signal sources to Unbalanced Inputs and feed signals out from the Balanced Outputs. You can also use Balanced and Unbalanced outputs simultaneously, connected to different power amplifiers. 6. Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced Input/Output connectors on the C42: PIN 1: Shield or ground. PIN 2: + input. PIN 3: - input.

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 Repair department. For assistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the McIntosh Repair Department at: McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903 Phone: 607-723-3515 Fax: 607-723-1917 Copyright 1998 by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

Safety Instructions

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS!

PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT. WARNING SHOCK HAZARD DO NOT OPEN.
The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the products enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Attention: pour pevenir les chocs elecriques pas utiliser cette fiche polarisee avec un prolongateur, une prise de courant ou un autre sortie de courant, sauf si les lames peuvent etre inserees afond ans en laisser aucune partie a decouvert. 7. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning or power line surges. 8. Do not use attachments not recommended in this owners manual as they may cause hazards. Installation: 9. Locate the equipment for proper ventilation. For example, the equipment should not be placed on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet, that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings. 10. Locate the equipment away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliance (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 11. Mount the equipment in a wall or cabinet only as described in this owners manual. 12. Do not use this equipment near water; for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool, etc. 13. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The equipment may fall, causing serious injury to a person, and serious damage to the product. Connection: 14. Connect this equipment only to the type of AC power source as marked on the unit. 15. Route AC power cords so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the instrument. 16. Do not defeat the inherent design features of the polarized plug. Non-polarized line cord adapters will defeat the safety provided by the polarized AC plug. If the plug should fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding-type plug.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
AVIS RISQUE DE CHOC NE PAS OUVRIR.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
General: 1. Read all the safety and operating instructions, contained in this owners manual, before operating this equipment. 2. Retain this owners manual for future reference about safety and operating instructions. 3. Adhere to all warnings and operating instructions. 4. Follow all operating and use instructions. 5. Warning: To reduce risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture. This unit is capable of producing high sound pressure levels. Continued exposure to high sound pressure levels can cause permanent hearing impairment or loss. User caution is advised and ear protection is recommended when playing at high volumes. 6. Caution: to prevent electrical shock do not use this (polarized) plug with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
Safety Instructions cont, Introduction and Performance Features
17. Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Care of Equipment: 18. Clean the instrument by dusting with a dry cloth. Unplug this equipment from the wall outlet and clean the panel with a cloth moistened with a window cleaner. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. 19. Do not permit objects of any kind to be pushed and/or fall into the equipment through enclosure openings. Never spill liquids into the equipment through enclosure openings. 20. Unplug the power cord from the AC power outlet when left unused for a long period of time. Repair of Equipment: 21. Unplug this equipment from the wall outlet and refer servicing to a qualified service personnel under the following conditions: a. The AC power cord or the plug has been damaged. b. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the equipment. c. The equipment has been exposed to rain or water. d. The equipment does not operate normally by following the operating instructions contained within this owners manual. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation. e. The equipment has been dropped or damaged in any way. f. The equipment exhibits a distinct change in performance - this indicates a need for service. 22. Do not attempt to service beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other service should be referred to qualified service personnel. 23. When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by McIntosh or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards. 24. Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.

The new McIntosh C42 Stereo Preamplifier offers a highly refined combination of useful operating features with totally transparent electronic performance. For example you can take advantage of the eight-band equalizer to achieve the finest possible reproduction of digital source music as well as valuable music from earlier recording technology. Combine a C42 with a McIntosh Power Amplifier and you will enjoy a stereo system of unparalleled performance. Balanced and Unbalanced Inputs/Outputs Eight unbalanced inputs, and three unbalanced outputs are provided. One balanced input, and three balanced outputs are also included. The Aux input can be switched to accept a moving magnet phono cartridge. Precision Tracking Volume Control and Display A microprocessor logarithmic attenuator controls volume levels with a tracking accuracy of 0.1dB. Levels change in 213 individual steps of 0.5dB. The front panel digital display indicates the preamplifier gain in dB or percentage of available volume. Input Level Matching Adjust the input volume levels of source components so they match the tuner input level. Ultra Low Distortion Distortion levels of all types are less than 0.002%. Music is amplified with total transparency and accuracy. Full Featured Remote Control Full Featured Remote Control is included that will allow complete control of major front panel controls and switches.

Introduction

Performance Features
Eight Band Program Equalizer The equalizer provides 10dB of boost or cut at center frequencies of 20, 35, 70, 150, 300, 600, 1200 and 4000Hz. When an equalizer control is in the center or flat position, all equalizer circuit components are removed from the signal path. Two Signal Processor Loops Separate front panel switched signal processor loops are provided for the listen and record circuits.

Installation

The C42 can be placed upright on a table or shelf, standing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in a piece of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The required panel cutout, ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are shown. Always provide adequate ventilation for your C42. Cool operation ensures the longest possible operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not install the C42 directly above a heat generating component such as a high powered amplifier. If all the components are installed in a single cabinet, a quiet running ventilation fan can be a definite asset in maintaining all the system components at the coolest possible operating temperature. A custom cabinet installation should provide the following minimum spacing dimensions for cool operation. Allow at least 2 inches (5.1cm) above the unit and 1 inch (2.54cm) on each side of the control center, so that airflow is not obstructed. Allow 21 inches (53.3cm) depth behind the mounting panel, which includes clearance for connectors. Allow 1-1/8 inches (2.9cm) in front of the mounting panel for knob clearance. Be sure to cut out a ventilation hole in the mounting shelf according to the dimensions in the drawing.

17-1/2" 444mm 7/32" 5.3mm Outline of Front Panel Edge of Cutout End Caps 5-3/8" 136.9mm
17-1/16" 433.4mm 1/4" 6mm
Front View of C42 custom installed

4-7/8" 123.8mm

Panel Height 5-5/16" 134.9mm

(Front View)

3/16" 5.1mm Support Shelf Bottom of Cutout and Top of Support Shelf Must Coincide Mounting Surface

Outline of Unit

Side View of the C42 custom installed
Mounting Bracket at Both Sides of the Rear Panel. Fasten with 6-32 x 3/8 Machine Screw and Washer to Chassis. Fasten with 6 x 1/2 Wood Screw and Washer to Support Shelf

(Side View)

Support Shelf

Mounting Surface

15"
Cut Out Center for Ventilation
Bottom View of the C42 custom installed

6"

(Bottom View)

9"

C42 Rear Panel Connections and Switch
Connect the C42 power cord to a live AC outlet. Refer to information on the back panel of your C42 to determine the correct voltage for your unit POWER CONTROL MAIN Output sends a turn-on signal to a McIntosh Power Amplifier when the C42 is turned on DATA PORTs send signals to compatible source components to allow you to control them with the remote control 1 and 2 Balanced OUTPUTS contain Listen signals and turn on/off with the front panel OUTPUTS push-buttons
POWER CONTROL ACC Output sends a turn-on signal to a McIntosh Power Control unit when the C42 is turned on
POWER CONTROL 1and 2 Outputs send turn-on signal to a McIntosh Power Amplifier when the C42 Front Panel Output 1 and/or 2 is on
MAIN Balanced OUTPUTS contain Listen program signals at all times
LINE 1 balanced INPUTS accept high level program source signals
The EXT (external) Sensor jack allows you to connect a McIntosh IR sensor for remote operation Main Fuse holder, refer to infromation on the back panel of your C42 to determine the correct fuse size and rating
LISTEN OUTPUTS 1 and 2 contain Listen signals and turn on/off with the front panel OUTPUTS push-buttons
TAPE 1 and TAPE 2 OUTPUTS contain record out signals
RECORD PROCESSOR FROM and TO allows an external signal processor to be connected for use in the Record mode
LISTEN MAIN OUTPUTS contain Listen program signals at all times
LISTEN PROCESSOR FROM and TO allows an external signal processor to be connected for use in the Listen mode
TAPE 1, TAPE 2, TUNER, CD, LINE 2 and AUX2 INPUTS accept high level program source signals
AUX 1 accepts high level program source signals, PH accepts signals from a Moving Magnet phono cartridge, and the small slide switch selects which one of these two inputs is active when either front panel LISTEN or RECORD switch is set to PH/ AUX 1

How to Connect the C42

1. Plug the C42 AC power cord into a live AC outlet. 2. Connect balanced cables from the balanced MAIN OUTPUTS to balanced power amplifier inputs. 3. Connect cables from the C42 LISTEN PROCESSOR FROM jacks to the outputs of a signal processor. Connect cables from the C42 LISTEN PROCESSOR TO jacks to the signal processor inputs. 4. Connect cables from RECORD TAPE 1 OUTPUTS to high level record inputs of a tape recorder. Connect cables from the C42 TAPE 1 INPUTS to the outputs of a tape recorder. 5. Connect cables from the C42 CD INPUTS to the outputs of a CD Player. 6. Connect cables from the C42 TUNER INPUTS to the outputs of a tuner. 7. Connect a Power Control cable from the C42 MAIN

Note: Connect a signal processor to the RECORD PROCESSOR jacks in a similar manner.
POWER CONTROL jack to the POWER CONTROL IN of a McIntosh power amplifier. 8. Connect a Power Control cable from the C42 POWER CONTROL ACC jack to the Power Control In of a McIntosh tuner. 9. Connect a Data cable from the C42 CD DATA PORT to the DATA IN of a McIntosh CD player. 10. Connect a Data cable from the C42 TUNER DATA PORT to the DATA IN of a McIntosh tuner. 11. Connect an RG6 or RG59U coaxial cable from the EXT (external) Sensor jack to an IR sensor.
NOTE: Balanced and Unbalanced Inputs and Outputs can be mixed. For example, you may connect signal sources to Unbalanced Inputs and feed signals out from the Balanced Outputs. You can also use Balanced and Unbalanced outputs simultaneously, connected to different power amplifiers.
In McIntosh CD Player In Out

To AC Outlet

Listen Signal Processor

McIntosh Power Amplifier

Tape Recorder

McIntosh Tuner

C42 Front Panel Controls, Displays, Push-Buttons, and Switch
C42 Front Panel Controls, Displays, PushButtons, and Switch
BALANCE control allows you to adjust the relative volume levels of each channel signal in 1dB steps RECORD switch selects the program signals that are fed to the TAPE Outputs DISPLAY indicates the volume level in dB with 0.5dB or 1.0dB steps, or percentage of maximum volume from 1 to 100. The display also indicates input level calibration as well as Balance adjustments VOLUME control adjusts the volume level at the balanced and unbalanced outputs as well as adjusting input level calibration
Equalizer provides 10dB of boost or cut at the center frequencies indicated above each control
LISTEN switch selects the program signals that are fed to the MAIN and OUTPUTS 1&2
HEADPHONES jack accepts dynamic headphones REC PROCESSOR push-button turns the Record Processor loop on or off LIS PROCESSOR push-button turns the Listen Processor loop on or off MONO pushbutton combines left and right stereo signals to mono at all MAIN and OUTPUTS 1&2 IR Sensor receives commands from a remote control

MUTE pushbutton mutes audio in all Listen outputs OUTPUTS 1 and 2 push-buttons allow the C42 to switch AC power control and audio to two separate stereo power amplifiers
POWER switch turns all AC power completely ON or OFF
REC MONITOR push-button switches the RECORD Output signals to the Listen circuit so you can hear the program signals sent to the Record outputs
INPUT TRIM allows input levels of any program source to be matched to the level of the Tuner input
DISPLAY push-button switches the display to indicate either volume level in dB, or percent of maximum volume
STANDBY/ON push-button turns the C42 ON or OFF (Standby), and it is also used to reset all the C42 microprocessors
How to Trim Input Volume Levels
Various components can have slightly different volume levels. This results in the constant need to readjust the C42 volume control when listening to different program sources. A volume trim feature on the C42 allows you to adjust or trim the volume levels of the various inputs so they are the same. The trimmed volume levels for all the inputs are based on the reference volume level of the TUNER input, which is fixed. Refer to Figure 1 during the following steps:
Optional Trim Procedure 1. Switch the RECORD selector to TUNER. 2. Switch the LISTEN selector to a different input source such as CD. 3. Press the REC MONITOR push-button and adjust the volume control to the desired listening level. 4. Press the INPUT TRIM push-button. The VOLUME display will read 00 and the Red LED above the push-button will turn ON. 5. Press the REC MONITOR a second time to return to the LISTEN mode. NOTE: Trimmed volume levels will affect only the LISTEN 6. Adjust the volume control up or down as needed until signals. The RECORD output levels are not affected by the listening level of the second input source is the the trim procedure and do not change. Any TRIM same as the Tuner level. The VOLUME display will adjustments made are retained in permanent memory automatically switch to dB and indicate the new setting and can be changed only by performing a new TRIM for volume level with a range of 12dB. procedure. 7. Make an instant comparison between the two volume levels by 1. Switch the C42 switching REC LISTEN selecMONITOR ON tor to TUNER or OFF and and adjust the make further volume control adjustments as to the desired needed to match listening level. the volume lev2. Press the INels. PUT TRIM 8. Press INPUT push-button. TRIM a second The VOLUME time to exit the display will TRIM mode. Figure 1 read 00 and the Red LED above the push-button will turn ON. 3. Switch to another input such as CD. 4. Adjust the volume control either up or down as needed until the listening level of the second input source is the same as the Tuner level. The display will automatically switch to dB and indicate the new setting for volume level with a range of 12dB. 5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 to trim the volume levels for other LISTEN input sources. 6. Press the INPUT TRIM push-button a second time to exit the TRIM mode and the Red LED will turn OFF.

NOTE: Whenever you select a program source with trimmed volume levels, the volume DISPLAY will automatically move up or down to reflect the desired volume level set for that source. NOTE: The following table may be used to record your level trim adjustments for the various inputs.
Input Source Tuner Tape 1 Tape 2 Line 1 Line 2 Ph/Aux 1 Aux 2 CD

Default Setting 0 0

New Setting

How to Operate the C42

Power On Press the POWER switch to ON. The Red LED, above the STANDBY/ON Pushbutton, lights to indicate the C42 is in Standby Mode. To turn on the C42 press the STANDBY/ ON push-button. Refer to Figure 2.
NOTE: You may also turn on the C42 using the remote control.
Balance Control Adjust the BALANCE control as needed to achieve approximately equal listening volume levels in each loudspeaker. Turn the BALANCE to the Left to emphasize the left channel by reducing the level of the right channel. Turn the BALANCE to the right to emphasize the right channel by reducing the level of the left channel. Balance Display As soon as the BALANCE control is turned, the Volume Display reads the balance change from 1 to 107 in one dB steps. After approximately 3 seconds the Volume Display returns to the Volume reading. To verify the balance setting without changing it, move the control one detent in either direction. The display will indicate the selected balance changes for approximately 3 seconds and then return to the volume display. Refer to Figure 3. The L or R will illuminate red to indicate which channel has been emphasized by the BALANCE control. It is perfectly natural for the BALANCE control to be off the center to achieve the correct listening volume from each loudspeaker in many listening rooms. Listening balance can also vary with different program sources, room acoustics and listening positions relative to the loudspeakers.

Figure 2

Source Selection Select the desired listening source with the LISTEN Switch. Volume Control Adjust the VOLUME control for the desired listening level. Volume Level Display Press the DISPLAY push-button to select either dB or % volume display. The dB readings range from -92dB to +15dB, in 0.5dB or 1dB steps. The % volume display reads from 0 to 100. Reset of Microprocessors In the event that the controls of the C42 stop functioning, there is a user reset function built in. While the C42 is on depress and hold in the STANDBY/ON/RESET push button for five seconds, this will reset the C42 microprocessors.

NOTE: The above condition is usually caused by either interruptions in AC power and/or major changes in voltage.

Figure 3

Equalizer Controls Each of the eight Equalizer Frequency controls will raise or lower by approximately10dB, the amplitude of the band of frequencies centered at the frequency marked above the
How to Operate the C42 cont
controls. Both left and right channels are affected. At the center detent or flat position of the controls, all equalizer circuit components are removed from the signal path. Mono Press the MONO push-button to combine left and right stereo signals to mono at all MAIN, OUTPUT 1&2 and HEADPHONES Outputs. Mute Press the MUTE pushbutton to mute audio in all Listen outputs. How to change dB volume Steps The Volume Control can adjust volume level in either 1dB or 0.5dB steps. Refer To Figure 5. 1. To change from one volume step mode to the other, first press Figure 5 the Input Trim Pushbutton and then the Display push-button. 2. To return to the previous step mode, press the Input Trim and Display push-buttons a second time.
NOTE: The display will indicate the dB level change modes according to your selection. This procedure does not affect the % volume display.
the tape, a fraction of a second later, during recording when a three head tape recorder is used. You can also listen to the signal being fed to the tape recorder by pressing the REC MONITOR push-button. Refer to Figure 4. 1. Select the desired program source to record with the front panel RECORD selector switch. 2. Adjust the record level using the tape recorder volume control. 3. To listen to the signal being fed to the tape recorder, press the REC (Record) MONITOR push-button. 4. To listen to the tape playback of the program source just recorded, turn the LISTEN switch to the desired input.
NOTE: The C42 RECORD OUTPUTS are not affected by the VOLUME or BALANCE controls. To listen to a different program source while recording, turn the LISTEN switch to the desired source. The recording process will not be affected and will continue.
How To Make A Tape Recording The separate RECORD and LISTEN switches allow you to make a tape recording from one program source while listening to another. You can also listen (monitor) to the reFigure 4 corded signal off

Figure 6

How to use a Signal Processor Access and operate a signal processor connected to the LISTEN PROCESSOR jacks by pressing the front panel LIS (Listen) PROCESSOR push-button. This processor will affect only the LISTEN signals. Refer to Figure 6. Access and operate a signal processor connected to the RECORD PROCESSOR jacks by pressing the front panel REC (Record) processor push-button. This processor will affect only the RECORD signals sent to tape recorders.

Remote Control Push-Buttons
Selects transport functions of a CD player, CD changer or tape recorder Selects tuner presets, track selection or any numbered operation Selects tuner stations presets Turn LISTEN or RECORD PROCESSOR circuits ON or OFF Selects the input TRIM functions Turns power ON or OFF to a component connected via the Data Port Selects OUTPUTS 1 and 2 either separately, or both simultaneously
Select any of the eight high level, (or phono), inputs Selects FM or AM tuner Functions
Selects discs or tracks of a CD/LV/DVD player or changer Use together with the number keys to select track numbers above 10 Combines the left and right channels
Tunes to the next radio station Select dB or % Volume display mode
Adjusts the volume level up or down Turns the C42 ON or OFF
Press to listen to signals fed to RECORD OUTPUTS Mutes the audio
How to Operate the Remote Control
Mute Press the MUTE push-button to mute audio in all LISTEN outputs. Mono Press the MONO push-button to combine left and right stereo signals to mono at all MAIN, AMPLIFIER, LISTEN and HEADPHONES Outputs. Audio Press any of the eight Audio push-buttons to select a LISTEN program source. CD/Tape Use these push-buttons to operate a CD player, CD changer or tape recorder, when the component is connected to the C100 with a McIntosh RCT Translator. Numbered and +10 Push-buttons Press push-buttons 0 through 9 to access tuner station presets, CD tracks or CD discs. When using a McIntosh MCD7010 CD player, access track numbers higher than 10 by first pressing +10 and then a number push-button. Disc and Track Use the DISC and TRACK push-buttons when a CD player or changer is being used. Tuner Push-buttons Use with a McIntosh tuner. Select AM or FM broadcast band. Press and release SEEK Up or Down to move from station to station. Press and hold a SEEK push-button to move continuously from station to station. Press REVIEW to start the automatic brief audition of each of the presets stored in the tuner memory. Press REVIEW a second time to stop on a station preset and exit the Review process. Processors Press the LISTEN PROCESSOR push-button to activate rear panel processor connections to add signal processing from an external processor to the LISTEN Outputs. Press the RECORD PROCESSOR push-button to activate rear panel connections to add signal processing from an external processor to the RECORD outputs. Record Monitor Press the REC (Record) Monitor push-button to listen to the signals being fed to the RECORD OUTPUTS. Volume Press the Up or Down VOLUME push-button to raise or lower the listening volume level. The Record Outputs are not affected. Trim Press TRIM to enter the Input Volume Level Trim mode. Press a second time to exit the Trim mode. Display Press the DISPLAY push-button to cycle the Volume Display between dB and % of volume indications. ACC ON - OFF Press ACC ON or ACC OFF to turn power ON and OFF of components that are connected with a McIntosh RCT Translator - Repeater. Only the ACC ON push-button is active with the McIntosh LV or DVD Disc Player.

NOTE: When other brands of components are connected with a McIntosh RCT Translator, refer to the RCT Owners Manual for further information on alternate remote control push-button functions.
Specifications and Performance Chart

Specifications

Frequency Response +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz Total Harmonic Distortion 0.002% maximum from 20Hz to 20,000Hz Signal To Noise Ratio Phono: 86dB (A Weighted) High Level: 97dB (A Weighted) Rated Output Voltage Main and Outputs 1 and 2: Maximum Voltage Output Main and Outputs 1 and 2: Output Impedance 240 ohms Input Impedance Phono: 47K ohms, 65pf High Level: 22K ohms Sensitivity Phono: High Level: 4.5mV for rated output 450mV for rated output 2.5Vrms 10Vrms Maximum Input Signal Phono: 50mV High Level: 5V Voltage Gain Phono to Tape Out: 40dB High Level to Tape Out: 0dB High Level to Main Out: 15dB Power Requirements 100 Volts 50/60Hz, 30 watts 110 Volts 50/60Hz, 30 watts 120 Volts 50/60Hz, 30 watts 220 Volts 50/60Hz, 30 watts 230 Volts 50/60Hz, 30 watts 240 Volts 50/60Hz, 30 watts
Note: Refer to the rear panel of the C42 for the correct voltage.
Dimensions 17-1/2 inches (44.5cm) W, 5-3/8 inches (13.7cm) H, 17.5 inches (44.5cm) D, including clearance for connectors
Performance Chart Equalizer Frequency Response

(Decibel)

-15 20

Hz (Hertz)

Packing Instructions
In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown below. It is very important that the four plastic feet are attached to the bottom of the equipment. This will ensure the proper equipment location on the bottom pad. Failure to do this will result in shipping damage. Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only if they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping carton or any of the interior part(s) are needed, please call or write Customer Service Department of McIntosh Laboratory. Please see the Parts List for the correct part numbers.

Quantity 4 1

Part Number 104083 049259
Description Shipping carton only End Cap Inside carton only Top Pad Bottom pad Inner carton pad Plastic foot #10-32 x 3/4 Machine screw #10 x 7/16 Flat washer Shipping carton complete with all the above parts
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, NY 13903

McIntosh Part No. 040627