Audio T Verdict
The ATC CA2 Mk2 is an exceptionally focused analogue pre-amplifier for customers who value transparency, flexibility and long-term system building over unnecessary digital features.
Its discrete Class A circuitry is derived from ATC's reference SCA2 and is designed to preserve detail, timing and dynamic contrast without imposing an obvious character of its own.
Five line inputs, an adjustable moving-magnet and moving-coil phono stage, a high-quality headphone amplifier and several pre-amplifier outputs make it a practical control centre for turntables, streamers, CD players and other analogue sources.
It is equally at home feeding ATC active loudspeakers or partnering a separate power amplifier such as the ATC P1 or P2. Customers should note that the XLR output sockets carry an unbalanced signal, and the CA2 does not include digital inputs, streaming or loudspeaker amplification.
ATC CA2 Mk2 Stereo Pre-Amplifier
The ATC CA2 Mk2 is a two-channel analogue pre-amplifier designed to control source selection and listening volume within a high-quality separates system.
It can connect directly to suitable active loudspeakers or partner a separate stereo power amplifier when passive speakers are used.
Developed from ATC's reference
SCA2 pre-amplifier
,
the CA2 retains the company's emphasis on low noise, wide bandwidth and low distortion in a simpler and more compact design.
What Does a Pre-Amplifier Do?
A pre-amplifier acts as the control centre of a separates system. It allows several music sources to be connected, selects the source being heard and adjusts the volume sent to the next stage.
When passive speakers are used, the CA2 connects to a separate power amplifier, which provides the current required to drive the loudspeakers.
With active loudspeakers, the power amplifiers are already built into the speaker cabinets, allowing the CA2 to connect directly to their audio inputs.
Read our
guide to pre-amplifiers and power amplifiers
for a fuller explanation of the benefits and practical considerations.
The CA2 Does Not Drive Passive Speakers Directly
The CA2 does not contain a power-amplifier stage or loudspeaker terminals.
Passive loudspeakers require a suitable separate power amplifier between the CA2 and the speakers.
Discrete Class A Analogue Circuitry
The CA2 uses discrete low-noise Class A circuitry developed from the more advanced ATC SCA2.
Discrete circuitry allows individual transistors and supporting components to be selected for specific roles rather than placing the main signal processing within a general-purpose integrated circuit.
ATC's approach is intended to achieve very low distortion, wide bandwidth and a neutral presentation that allows the character of the source and recording to remain intact.
Wide-Bandwidth Design
ATC specifies a frequency response extending from direct current to beyond 500kHz at the stated minus 3dB points.
This does not mean that the pre-amplifier is reproducing audible music at hundreds of kilohertz. The unusually wide circuit bandwidth helps maintain accurate phase response and clean transient behaviour throughout the audible range.
Total harmonic distortion is specified below 0.0005 percent under ATC's stated test conditions, with an A-weighted signal-to-noise figure above 108dB.
Five Stereo Line Inputs
Five stereo RCA line inputs are provided for compatible analogue sources.
These can be used with equipment such as a music streamer, CD player, external DAC, tuner, cassette deck or the line output from another suitable source.
The inputs are analogue only, so a digital source must provide its own analogue output or connect through a separate digital-to-analogue converter.
Adjustable Moving-Magnet and Moving-Coil Phono Stage
A separate stereo RCA phono input allows a compatible turntable to connect without requiring an external phono stage.
The phono circuit supports both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges, with adjustable gain and loading to help match the electrical requirements of the chosen cartridge.
Correct setup is important because moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges produce different output levels and can require different loading.
Check the Cartridge Setup Before Use
Confirm the cartridge type, recommended loading and required gain before connecting the turntable.
Incorrect phono-stage settings can result in low volume, excessive noise, distortion or an unbalanced tonal presentation.
Browse our
turntables
and
external phono stages
for compatible vinyl source options.
High-Performance Headphone Amplifier
A 6.35mm headphone socket allows private listening without adding a separate headphone amplifier.
The dedicated headphone stage is designed to provide a clean and controlled signal while retaining the CA2's low-noise analogue performance.
Headphone sensitivity and impedance vary considerably, so very demanding specialist headphones should still be assessed through a demonstration where possible.
Browse our range of
Hi-Fi headphones
for suitable listening options.
Two Stereo RCA Pre-Amplifier Outputs
Two stereo pairs of variable RCA outputs are provided.
This allows the CA2 to feed a stereo power amplifier while retaining a second variable output for another compatible power amplifier, active subwoofer or system zone.
Input sensitivity, grounding and connection requirements should be checked before combining the CA2 with equipment from another manufacturer.
XLR Output Connectors
A stereo pair of male XLR output connectors is also fitted for convenient connection to compatible ATC power amplifiers and active loudspeakers.
The XLR Outputs Are Unbalanced
ATC specifies that every CA2 pre-amplifier output is unbalanced, including the signals carried by the XLR connectors.
The presence of an XLR socket should therefore not be interpreted as confirmation of a balanced signal path. Use correctly wired cables and confirm compatibility before connecting third-party equipment.
Fixed Tape Output
A fixed-level stereo RCA tape output can feed a suitable recording device or other component requiring a source-level signal unaffected by the main volume control.
Because this output does not follow the listening volume, it should not be connected directly to a conventional power amplifier or active speaker input.
Infrared Remote Control
The supplied infrared remote allows the principal pre-amplifier functions to be controlled from the listening position.
Front-panel controls remain available for straightforward operation without relying on an application, network connection or smart device.
Using the CA2 with ATC Power Amplifiers
The CA2 is a natural partner for the
ATC P1 power amplifier
,
which provides 150W per channel for compatible passive loudspeakers.
More demanding speakers, larger rooms or higher playback levels may benefit from the
ATC P2 power amplifier
,
rated at 300W per channel.
Both power amplifiers use ATC's grounded-source Class A/B design and are engineered to complement the company's pre-amplifiers electrically and visually.
Using the CA2 with Active Loudspeakers
Active loudspeakers contain dedicated power amplification within each cabinet, so the CA2 can connect directly to their audio inputs.
Suitable Audio T options include the
ATC SCM19A
,
ATC SCM40A
and
ATC SCM50ASL
.
Each active speaker requires its own mains connection and signal cable. Cable type and wiring should be confirmed because the CA2's XLR outputs are unbalanced.
Long Cable Runs
ATC designed the CA2 with sufficient output capability to drive demanding amplifier inputs and longer interconnect runs.
This can be useful where active speakers are positioned several metres from the pre-amplifier or where a power amplifier is installed closer to the loudspeakers.
Cable quality, capacitance and correct wiring remain important, particularly when using long unbalanced connections in electrically noisy environments.
Adding a Subwoofer
One of the CA2's spare variable RCA output pairs may be used with a compatible active subwoofer that provides suitable line-level inputs and crossover controls.
Because the CA2 does not include bass management, the main speakers normally continue to receive a full-range signal unless the subwoofer or another component provides filtering.
Subwoofer level, crossover frequency, phase and room position must therefore be adjusted carefully.
Browse our range of
Hi-Fi subwoofers
for compatible options.
No Digital Inputs or Streaming
The CA2 is an all-analogue pre-amplifier. Digital audio inputs, an internal DAC, Bluetooth, network streaming and application control are not listed.
A streamer, CD player or external DAC can still be connected through any available stereo line input when the source provides analogue RCA outputs.
Browse our
music streamers
and
digital-to-analogue converters
for suitable digital source components.
CA2 or SCA2?
ATC CA2
- Discrete Class A analogue circuitry
- Five stereo RCA line inputs
- Adjustable moving-magnet and moving-coil phono input
- Headphone amplifier
- Two RCA output pairs and one XLR connector pair
- Compact 94mm-high cabinet
- Ideal for focused analogue systems
ATC SCA2
- ATC's reference separate pre-amplifier
- Greater input flexibility
- Balanced and unbalanced source connections
- Fully discrete signal architecture
- More substantial casework and power supplies
- Designed for reference active and passive systems
View the ATC SCA2 pre-amplifier
Pre and Power or Integrated Amplifier?
CA2 Pre and Power System
- Separate low-level and high-current circuitry
- Choice of P1, P2 or another suitable power amplifier
- Direct compatibility with active speakers
- Greater flexibility for future system changes
- Requires additional shelf space and interconnects
Integrated Amplifier
- Pre-amplifier and power amplifier in one enclosure
- Fewer boxes and cables
- Often easier to install
- Power stage cannot be changed independently
- Not required when using active loudspeakers
View the ATC SIA2-100 integrated amplifier
System Matching
Well Suited To
- ATC active loudspeaker systems
- ATC P1 and P2 power amplifiers
- Analogue-focused separates systems
- Turntables using moving-magnet cartridges
- Turntables using compatible moving-coil cartridges
- Streamers and CD players with analogue outputs
- Customers requiring several variable outputs
- Private headphone listening
Check Before Buying
- No power amplifier or speaker terminals
- No digital inputs or internal DAC
- No network streaming or Bluetooth
- XLR output connectors carry unbalanced signals
- Phono gain and loading must suit the cartridge
- Active speakers need mains power at each cabinet
- A separate power amplifier is required for passive speakers
Setup Guidance
- Connect every component with the system switched off
- Begin with the CA2 volume set low
- Confirm phono settings before playing records
- Use correctly wired cables with the XLR outputs
- Keep signal cables away from mains leads where practical
- Allow ventilation around every powered component
- Check active-speaker input sensitivity before use
Browse our complete selection of
Hi-Fi amplifiers
,
passive and active speakers
,
music streamers
,
turntables
and
audio cables
, or explore the complete
ATC range at Audio T
.
Key Features
- Two-channel analogue stereo pre-amplifier
- Suitable for active loudspeakers and separate power amplifiers
- Discrete low-noise Class A circuitry
- Derived from the reference ATC SCA2
- Five stereo RCA line inputs
- Separate moving-magnet and moving-coil phono input
- Adjustable phono gain and loading
- High-performance headphone amplifier
- 6.35mm headphone output
- Two stereo pairs of variable RCA outputs
- One stereo pair of male XLR output connectors
- All pre-amplifier outputs carry unbalanced signals
- Fixed stereo RCA tape output
- Infrared remote control
- Wide-bandwidth analogue circuit design
- Very low distortion and noise
- Compact slimline casework
- Hand built in the United Kingdom
- Six-year ATC warranty, subject to current terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ATC CA2?
It is an analogue stereo pre-amplifier that controls source selection and volume within an active-speaker or separate pre and power system.
Can the CA2 drive passive speakers?
Not directly. Passive speakers require a separate power amplifier between the CA2 and the loudspeakers.
Can it connect directly to active speakers?
Yes. The variable outputs can feed compatible active loudspeakers, subject to correct cable wiring and input matching.
How many line inputs does it have?
It provides five stereo RCA line inputs in addition to its separate phono input.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. The built-in phono stage supports compatible moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges with adjustable gain and loading.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A high-performance headphone amplifier feeds a front-panel 6.35mm socket.
Are the XLR outputs balanced?
No. ATC specifies that the XLR connectors carry unbalanced output signals.
Can two power amplifiers be connected?
The CA2 provides several variable output pairs, allowing compatible multiple-amplifier or active-speaker arrangements to be considered.
Can I connect a subwoofer?
A compatible active subwoofer may connect to a spare variable RCA output, although the CA2 does not provide internal bass management.
Does the CA2 include a DAC?
No. Digital sources require their own analogue output or a separate digital-to-analogue converter.
Does it include streaming or Bluetooth?
Network streaming, Bluetooth and application control are not listed.
Which ATC power amplifier matches the CA2?
The ATC P1 is a natural partner for many systems, while the more powerful P2 is suited to more demanding speakers and larger rooms.
Which ATC active speakers can it partner?
Suitable options include the SCM19A, SCM40A and larger ATC active monitor ranges, subject to room and system requirements.
How large is the CA2?
It measures 94mm high, 449mm wide and 330mm deep, including the chassis connectors.
How much does it weigh?
ATC's current specification lists a weight of 6kg.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Advice on active-speaker and pre-power system design
- ATC P1 and P2 power-amplifier matching
- ATC active-loudspeaker demonstrations
- Moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridge setup
- Streamer, DAC and CD-player matching
- Headphone compatibility guidance
- Correct RCA and XLR cable recommendations
- Subwoofer connection and integration advice
- System installation and cable-management guidance
- Ongoing setup and upgrade support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the ATC CA2 with your sources, active speakers or separate power amplifier.