Accuphase
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Specs
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +0 / -0.2 dB (balanced input, RATED output) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.005% (balanced input, RATED output) |
| Input Sensitivity (Balanced) | 252 mV (RATED output 2 V) |
| Input Impedance (Balanced) | 40 kilohms |
| Input Impedance (Line) | 20 kilohms |
| Rated Output Voltage | 2.0 V |
| Maximum Output Voltage | 7.0 V |
| Output Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Gain | 18 dB |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 111 dB (balanced, guaranteed) / 108 dB (EIA), input shorted |
| Power Consumption | 20 W |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 465 x 150 x 405 mm (18.31 x 5.91 x 15.94 in) |
| Weight | 19.3 kg |
Warranty
Sold as an authorized Accuphase dealer by All Elite Audio. New Accuphase C-2300 units include the full Accuphase USA manufacturer warranty of 3 years parts and labor for the original owner. Contact us with any service or setup questions.
What's in the Box
- Accuphase C-2300 Precision Stereo Control Center
- Power cord
- Remote control handset
- Owner's manual
- Warranty documentation
Overview
The Accuphase C-2300 Precision Stereo Control Center is a full featured line stage preamplifier that anchors a high resolution two channel system with exceptional clarity and quiet operation. It carries forward Accuphase's long refined philosophy of building a control center that adds nothing and takes nothing away, preserving the character of your sources while giving you complete, intuitive command of the system.
At the heart of the C-2300 is Accuphase's balanced AAVA volume control, which manages level in the current domain rather than with a conventional variable resistor. Because there is no potentiometer or resistor network in the signal path, sound quality remains constant at every listening level and the volume mechanism stays free of wear and noise over the long life of the unit. The fully balanced circuit topology, careful attention to ground management, and a substantial power supply combine to deliver a low noise floor and remarkably natural tonal balance.
The C-2300 is for the listener building a serious system who wants a transparent, long term control center that will pair with a dedicated power amplifier and reveal the full potential of fine source components. It suits both analog and digital front ends, offers flexible connectivity, and accepts Accuphase's optional plug in boards for phono and digital duties.
Key Features
- Balanced AAVA volume control adjusts level in the current domain for constant sound quality at any listening level
- Fully balanced signal transmission from input to output for excellent noise rejection
- No potentiometer or variable resistor in the signal path, eliminating a common source of wear and channel imbalance
- High rigidity chassis and thorough shielding to isolate sensitive circuits from noise
- Logic controlled relays for signal switching keep contacts short and clean
- Optional expansion slot accepts a plug in phono board or line input board
- Balanced and single ended inputs and outputs for flexible system integration
- Analog level meters and a clear front panel display for precise, at a glance control
- Robust, well regulated power supply for stable, quiet operation
How the C-2300 Compares
Accuphase C-2300 vs Accuphase C-2900
The C-2900 sits above the C-2300 in the Accuphase range and offers more, with a more elaborate implementation of the AAVA volume control and an even lower noise floor. It is aimed at the listener assembling a flagship system where the last measure of transparency and resolution is the goal. The C-2300 delivers the same core Accuphase character in a more accessible full featured package that still reaches a very high level of performance. See the Accuphase C-2900.
Accuphase C-2300 vs Luxman C-10X
The Luxman C-10X is a control amplifier that leans toward a warm, rich, and slightly romantic presentation with its own LECUA volume technology. The Accuphase C-2300 tends toward a precise, neutral, and highly resolved character with its AAVA level control. Choose the Luxman if you want a lush tonal color, or the Accuphase if you prize transparency and even handed balance across your sources. See the Luxman C-10X.
Recommended Power Amplifiers
Pair the C-2300 with an Accuphase power amplifier and a resolving loudspeaker to build a coherent, balanced system that lets its transparency shine.
- Accuphase A-48S This Class A stereo power amplifier is an ideal partner for the C-2300, delivering pure, refined power with the same tonal honesty for a fully matched Accuphase front to back system.
- Accuphase P-4600 A Class AB stereo power amplifier that offers generous power reserves, making it a strong match for the C-2300 when driving demanding speakers in larger rooms.
- Accuphase A-80 For a higher tier Class A pairing, the A-80 brings greater drive and grip while keeping the pure Accuphase character the C-2300 preserves so faithfully.
- Marten Parker Trio Diamond This resolving floorstander with diamond tweeter technology reveals the clean, transparent signal the C-2300 passes along, ideal for detailed critical listening.
- Spendor Classic 200 A large three way floorstander with a natural, room filling balance that pairs beautifully with the neutral control of the C-2300 for relaxed, full range listening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Accuphase C-2300?
It is a precision stereo control center, or line stage preamplifier, that manages source selection and volume for a high resolution two channel system while adding as little coloration as possible.
What is the AAVA volume control?
AAVA is Accuphase's method of adjusting volume in the current domain rather than with a conventional resistor or potentiometer. This keeps sound quality constant at every level and avoids the wear and noise associated with mechanical volume controls.
Does the C-2300 have a built in phono stage?
The C-2300 has an expansion slot that accepts an optional plug in phono board, so you can add analog record playback support to match your turntable.
Is the C-2300 a fully balanced design?
Yes, it uses fully balanced signal transmission from input to output, which improves noise rejection and preserves signal integrity.
What sources can I connect to it?
It offers both balanced and single ended inputs, so it works with CD players, DACs, streamers, tuners, and other line level sources, plus a turntable if the optional phono board is fitted.
Does it come with a remote control?
Yes, a remote control handset is included for convenient operation from the listening position.
What power amplifier should I pair with the C-2300?
Accuphase power amplifiers such as the A-48S, A-80, or P-4600 are natural partners, keeping the tonal character consistent throughout the signal chain.
Will the C-2300 work with non Accuphase power amplifiers?
Yes, it will drive most quality power amplifiers thanks to its balanced and single ended outputs and low output impedance, though a matched Accuphase pairing offers the most seamless character.
How does the C-2300 differ from the C-2900?
The C-2900 sits higher in the range and offers a more elaborate AAVA implementation and an even lower noise floor, while the C-2300 delivers the same core Accuphase character in a more accessible full featured package.
Does the C-2300 have analog meters?
Yes, it features analog level meters and a clear front panel display for precise, at a glance monitoring.
Can the C-2300 drive headphones?
The C-2300 is designed as a line stage control center rather than a dedicated headphone amplifier. Check the current specification for headphone provision, and consider a dedicated headphone solution for the best results.
Is the C-2300 suitable for a large listening room?
Yes, when paired with an appropriately powerful Accuphase amplifier such as the P-4600 it can anchor a system in a large room without difficulty.
How much does the C-2300 weigh?
It weighs approximately 20.7 kg, reflecting its substantial chassis and robust power supply.
What is the warranty on the C-2300?
It carries a 3 year parts and labor warranty for the original owner when purchased from an authorized dealer such as All Elite Audio.
Does buying from an authorized dealer matter?
Yes, purchasing from an authorized Accuphase dealer ensures your unit is genuine, fully supported, and covered by the full manufacturer warranty.
What speakers pair well with a C-2300 system?
Resolving floorstanders such as the Marten Parker Trio Diamond or the Spendor Classic 200 reveal the transparency the C-2300 offers, depending on your preferred voicing and room size.
Can I use the C-2300 in a home theater bypass setup?
Many Accuphase preamplifiers offer flexible input handling that can integrate into a larger system. Review the current specification or contact us to confirm the configuration you need.
Is the volume control prone to wear over time?
No, because the AAVA volume control has no potentiometer or variable resistor in the signal path, it avoids the mechanical wear and channel imbalance that can affect conventional controls.
How do I choose between the C-2300 and the C-2900?
Choose the C-2300 for a very high level of transparency in an accessible full featured design, or step up to the C-2900 if you want the range topping resolution and lowest noise floor for a flagship system.
Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Accuphase dealer in Maryland offering genuine products, the full manufacturer warranty, expert system matching advice, and attentive support before and after your purchase.
