McIntosh MCD-500 Brochure

MCD500

legendary

SACD/CD Player

The new McIntosh MCD500 SACD/CD Player with Digital Inputs combines exceptional
sound quality and flexibility with a unique parallel DAC topology. Four 24-Bit, 192 kHz
PCM/DSD digital to analog converters per channel are arranged in a differential balanced
configuration enabling a more faithful reproduction of the analog waveform resulting in
outstanding fidelity with very low noise and distortion. The superior low-level linearity
achieved by this design reveals extraordinary detail for the kind of transparency normally
experienced only during live musical events.

Coaxial and Optical digital inputs allow the use of this extraordinary digital front end with
external digital audio sources; everything from music servers to portable music players can
benefit. Additionally, all internal clocks are generated by a phase-locked loop generator
yielding stable, low jitter operation for truly error-free performance.

The MCD500 analog stages employ a differential balanced topology for wide dynamic
range and the best possible fidelity. Both fixed and variable outputs are supported and
a dedicated high-performance headphone amplifier with 1/4” jack is provided.

“...enable the best
performance possible
from your McIntosh
components”

Four DACS per Channel

Die-cast Disc Tray

2X-speed Disc Reading

Digital Inputs

Variable Output w/ Volume Control

Low Impedance Headphone Stage
with 1/4” Jack

MCD500

SACD/CD player

parallel DaC tOpOlOgy

Four DACs per channel are arranged
in a balanced parallel configuration for
the most accurate reconstruction of the
analog waveform.

Digital inputs

Two selectable digital inputs are provided
for use with external digital sources like
the MS750 Music Server. Indeed, the
MCD500 has the potential to improve
the sound of any digital music source.

Drive MeCHanisM

Die-cast, wrap-around chassis with a steel
top cover dampens resonances for silent,
error free operation disc reading.

DisC reaDing

CDs are read into buffer memory at 2X
normal speed for enhanced accuracy.

pOwer supply

A premium linear power supply features
an R-Core transformer and nested
regulation providing super stable
DC voltage as required by the high
performance digital circuits utilized.

FixeD Output level

2.0Vrms Unbalanced

4.0Vrms Balanced

variable Output level

0 - 6.0Vrms Unbalanced
0 - 12.0Vrms Balanced

Output iMpeDanCe

600 Ohms Unbalanced and Balanced

FrequenCy respOnse

4Hz to 40,000Hz, +0.5, -2dB (SACD)
4Hz to 20,000Hz, ±0.5dB (CD)

signal tO nOise ratiO

Better than 110dB (A-weighted)

DynaMiC range

Better than 100dB

HarMOniC DistOrtiOn

0.0015% @ 1000Hz (SACD)

0.0015% @ 1000Hz (CD)

CHannel separatiOn

Better than 98dB (1,000Hz)

Digital input

Optical: -15dbm to -21dbm
(PCM1 – CD Format only)
Coaxial: 0.5V p-p/75 Ohm
(PCM1 – CD Format only)
Sampling Frequencies:

44.1kHz (PCM1)

Digital Output

Optical: -15dbm to -21dbm
(PCM1 – CD Format only)
Coaxial: 0.5V p-p/75 Ohm
(PCM1 – CD Format only)
Sampling Frequencies:

44.1kHz (PCM1)

transpOrt

Laser Type: Twin Beam
Laser Beam Wavelength: 650nm
(SACD)/790nm (CD)
Laser Power: CLASS IIa/CLASS I

pOwer requireMents

100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 Watts
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 Watts
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 Watts
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 Watts
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 Watts
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 Watts
Standby: Less than 1 Watt

Note: Refer to the rear panel of the
MCD500 for the correct voltage.

Overall DiMensiOns (H x w x D)

6" (15.24cm) x 17-1/2" (44.45cm) x
16-1/2" (41.91cm)

Note: When the Disc Tray is opened, the panel
clearance required in front of mounting panel is
6-3/4" (17.2cm).

weigHt

28.2 lbs. (12.8Kg) net

44.6 lbs. (20.2Kg) in shipping carton

FOr tHe COnsuMer’s
prOteCtiOn

In order to ensure the highest level of
customer satisfaction, “new” McIntosh
products may only be purchased over-the­counter or delivered and installed by an
Authorized McIntosh Dealer.

McIntosh products that are purchased
over the Internet, by phone or mail order
are presumed to be “used” and do
not qualify for any McIntosh Warranty.
McIntosh does not warrant, in any
way, products that are purchased from
anyone who is not an Authorized Dealer
or products that have had their serial
number altered or defaced.

PCM1 (Pulse Code Modulation)
Digital Signal type used for CD Discs

To experience the legendary performance of McIntosh, please call on us at 1-800-538-6576

35010200 MCD500

www.mcintoshlabs.com