MCD12000

The McIntosh MCD12000 SACD/CD player and digital-to-analogue converter combines reference level digital conversion with SACD and CD playback. Digital music from its inputs and discs is processed by professional grade 8-channel DACs intended for premium audiophile and recording studio applications. It is suited to use with the McIntosh C12000 Preamplifier.

Digital conversion is handled by 2 ESS SABRE PRO ES9038PRO 32-bit/8-channel DACs, with 1 dedicated to the left audio channel and 1 to the right. Each uses ESS HyperStream® II architecture and a Time Domain Jitter Eliminator. The DACs operate in Octal-Balanced Mono mode, using all 8 outputs to drive the analogue audio. Separate digital and analogue power supplies help prevent cross contamination between power and audio signals, while an R-Core power transformer reduces noise radiation.

The MCD12000 has 7 digital inputs, comprising 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB Type B for computer-based audio, 1 AES/EBU and 1 MCT input. The MCT connection can be used with existing McIntosh MCT SACD/CD Transports. Coaxial and optical inputs support up to 24-bit/192kHz. USB supports up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD512 and DXD384kHz.

Fixed analogue outputs are provided in balanced and unbalanced forms, with both solid-state and vacuum tube configurations. This allows the output type to be selected according to the music, the other components in the system and personal sound preferences. All outputs use discrete amplifiers, or a combination of vacuum tubes and discrete amplifiers. The vacuum tube output assigns 1 12AT7 tube and 1 12AX7A tube to each audio channel, while the solid-state output uses a discrete balanced op-amp.

A pair of 60dB output meters displays the signal level from the left and right analogue outputs. Volume is controlled by a preamplifier, integrated amplifier or another control device, while the meters respond to the music being played. Digital coaxial and optical outputs provide additional connection options for the rest of the audio system.

Alongside commercial SACDs and CDs, McIntosh MCD12000 can play user-generated CDs and DVD Data Discs. Supported disc file formats include AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD up to DSD128, FLAC, MP3, WAV and WMA. A twin-laser optical pickup reads common disc types, while the precision die-cast aluminium tray provides smooth, quiet disc handling. An advanced digital servo supports fast, quiet and accurate operation. Audio data is read at twice the normal rate to improve disc tracking and error correction processing. Power Control and data ports support integration with other McIntosh system components.

The MCD12000 DAC has received Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs. McIntosh has provided equipment to Roon for testing with a range of operating systems and computers, and has shared information about the design and capabilities of the equipment.

The lower section of the chassis is made from polished mirror-finish stainless steel, while the upper section uses hairline brushed black Titanium stainless steel to match the C12000. The front panel has black glass, an illuminated logo, knobs, push-button controls and custom-machined brushed aluminium handles. A glass panel on the top displays performance specifications and a block diagram of the audio signal path. A remote control is included.