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McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 www mcintoshlabs.com
MCT450
SACD/CD Transport
Owner’s Manual
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The lightning ash with arrowhead, within an equilateral
triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufcient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
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.
WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK
OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
CAUTION -
Invisible Laser Radiation when open.
DO NOT stare into the beam or view
directly with optical instruments. Use
of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than
those specified in the Owners Manual
may result in Hazardous Radiation
Exposure.
LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE
KLASS 1 LASER APPARAT
VAROITUS!
Laitteen kayttaminen muulla kuin
tassa kayttoohjeessa mainitulla
tavalla saattaa altistaa kayttajan
turvallisuusluokan 1 ylittavalle
nakymattomalle lasersateiiylle.
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.
VARNING!
This product incorporates an embedded
CLASS 3R Laser (IEC60825-1).
2
Om apparaten anvands pa annat satt
an i denna bruksanvisning specificerats, kan anvandaren utsattas for
osynbg laserstraining, som overskrider gransen for laserklass 1.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE
OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appa-
ratus (including ampliers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding type plug has two blades and a
third grounding prong. The wide blade or the
third prong are provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not t into your outlet,
consult an electrician for replacement of the
obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on
or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit
from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specied by
the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
or table specied by the manufacturer, or sold
with the apparatus. When a cart
is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tipover.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms
or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus
has been damaged in any way, such as powersupply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to
rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.
15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or
splashing and ensure that no objects lled
with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the
equipment.
16. To completely disconnect this equipment from
the a.c. mains, disconnect the power supply
cord plug from the a.c. receptacle.
17. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall
remain readily operable.
18. Do not expose batteries to excessive heat such
as sunshine, re or the like.
19. Connect mains power supply cord only to a
mains socket outlet with a protective earthing
connection.
Table of Contents
Safety Instructions .................................................. 2-3
Table of Contents .......................................................3
Thank You and Please Take a Moment ......................4
Technical Assistance and Customer Service .............4
General Information ..................................................4
Connector and Cable Information ......................... 4-5
Disc Information ........................................................ 5
Introduction ................................................................5
Performance Features ................................................5
Dimensions ................................................................6
Installation .................................................................7
Connections:
Rear Panel Connections ............................................. 8
Connections using Digital DIN Output ....................10
Connection Diagrams (Separate Sheet) ............. Mc1A
Connections using Digital Coaxial, Optical
or XLR .................................................................... 11
Connection Diagram (Separate Sheet) ............... Mc1B
Front Panel Features:
Front Panel Displays and Push-buttons ....................12
Front Panel Information Display ...............................13
Remote Control:
Remote Control Push-buttons ................................... 14
How to use the Remote Control ................................15
Operation:
How to Operate the MCT450 ...............................16 -21
Additional Information:
Specifications ........................................................... 22
Packing Instruction .................................................. 23
Copyright 2015 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
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Thank You
Your decision to own this McIntosh MCT450 SACD/
CD Transport 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.
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 Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-1545
Fax: 607-724-0549
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
Department. For assistance on factory repair return
procedure, contact the McIntosh Service Department
at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-3515
Fax: 607-723 -1917
General Information
1. For additional connection information, refer to the
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected
to the MCT450 SACD/CD Transport.
2. The Super Audio Compact Discs Audio Signals are
available at the Digital Audio Output DIN Connector. Compact Discs Audio Signals are available at
the Digital Audio Output XRL, Optical, Coaxial
and DIN Connectors.
3. The IR Input, with a 3.5mm mini phone jack, is
configured for non-McIntosh IR sensors such as
a Xantech Model HL85BK Kit. Use a Connection
Block such as a Xantech Model ZC21 when two
or more IR sensors need to be connected to the
MCT450.
5. When discarding the unit, comply with local rules
or regulations. Batteries should never be
thrown away or incinerated but disposed
of in accordance with the local regulations
concerning battery disposal.
6. For additional information on the MCT450 and
other McIntosh Products please visit the McIntosh
Web Site at www.mcintoshlabs.com.
Connector and Cable Information
XLR Connectors (Digital Audio)
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced
Digital Audio Connectors on the MCT450. Refer to
the diagram for connection:
PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Signal
PIN 3: - Signal
Note: When connecting to the MCT450 Digital XLR
Input and Output connectors it is important to use
a twisted pair shielded cable.
Data and IR Input Port Connectors
The MCT450 Data In Port receives
Remote Control Signals. A 1/8 inch
stereo mini phone plug is used for
connection. The IR Ports also use a
3.5mm stereo mini phone plug and
allow the connection of other brand
IR Receivers to the MCT450.
Power Control Connector
The MCT450 Power Control Input receives an On/Off
signal from +5 to +12 volts. The Power Control Output
will then send out a +12 volt
Output Signal with a total current up to 50mA. An additional
connection is for controlling the
illumination of the Power Output Meters. The 3.5mm stereo
mini phone plug connects to a McIntosh Preamplifier
or A/V Control Center Power Control Output.
PIN 1
Power
Control
Meter
Illumination
Control
Pass Thru
PIN 2
Data
Signal
IR Data
Control
N/C
Data
Ground
N/C
Ground
Ground
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General Information, Cable Information, Disc Information, Introduction and Performance Features
Digital DIN Cable
The Digital DIN Cable supplied with the MCT450 is a
McIntosh Designed Custom Cable. A substitute cable
will not work with the MCT450 and McIntosh Preamplifiers with a Digital DIN Connector. If it should
become necessary to replace the supplied Digital DIN
cable, order part number 171923 from the McIntosh
Parts Department.
Disc Information
1. The MCT450 is designed to play round Compact
Discs; do not try other shapes or possible damage
may occur.
2. The MCT450 SACD/CD Transport is designed to
play all industry standard “Redbook” CD Audio
Discs as indicated by the Symbol. It will also
play most CD-R, CD-RW and Dual Discs, however
some recorded discs may not be able to play due to
the condition of the recording or manufacturing.
3. Disc with tracks recorded with MP3 and WMA
Formats will playback on the MCT450 when the
writing software used to create them conforms to
the ISO9660 Level 1 standard.
4. Several of the SACD performance features available on the MCT450 are active only if the SACD
Disc includes the supporting encoded information.
5. The Audio from playback of SACD Two Channel
Layer and Multichannel Layer Discs is available at
the MCT450 Digital Audio Output DIN Connector.
The Digital Audio XRL, Optical, Coaxial Outputs
will be muted during SACD Playback.
6. The PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) Digital Signal,
is the standard for Audio CD Discs and is available at all Digital Audio Output Connectors on the
MCT450. Discs with WAV and MP3 file formats
are converted internally to a PCM Digital Signal.
Introduction
The McIntosh MCT450 SACD/CD Transport offers
the latest in audio technology, providing state of the
art reproduction of audio discs. A full complement of
performance features allows for the enjoyment of the
SACD and CD Disc Audio Formats. The advanced
mechanical design of the transport ensures many years
of smooth trouble free operation.
Performance Features
• Twin Laser Pickup
The MCT450 incorporates two laser elements, with
different wavelengths, that are focused through one
lens assembly. This unique design allows reading both
the CD and Super Audio Compact Disc (SACD) Discs
Formats.
• Advanced Transport
The MCT450 has a new transport with a Die Cast
Tray. It has the latest in advanced digital servo for
faster, quieter and accurate operation. The Disc Audio
Data is read at twice the normal rate insuring better
disc tracking and error correction processing.
• Advanced Digital DIN Output
A unique Digital DIN Output connects to McIntosh
Preamplifiers with a Digital DIN Connector for the
purist possible sound quality.
• Digital Audio Outputs
The MCT450 Digital Outputs include Coaxial, Optical, XRL and DIN Connections.
• Power Control and Full Function Remote Control
The Power Control Input Connection switches the
MCT450 On/Off with other McIntosh Components in
a system. The Remote Control with illuminated push-
buttons provides complete control of the MCT450
operating functions.
• Multi-Function Front Panel Display
The MCT450 Front Panel display indicates the current
disc playback status.
• Special Power Supply
The Linear Power Supply has both a special R-Core
Power Transformer and Multiple Regulators to ensure
stable noise free operation even though the power line
varies.
• Glass Front Panel and Super Mirror Chassis
The MCT450 has the famous McIntosh Illuminated
Glass Front Panel and Stainless Steel Super Mirror
Finish Chassis. These highly durable materials will
ensure the pristine beauty of the MCT450 will be
retained for many years.
• Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination
The Illumination of the Front Panel is accomplished
by the combination of custom designed Fiber Optic
Light Diffusers and extra long life Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). This provides even Front Panel Illumination and is designed to ensure the pristine beauty of
the MCT450 will be retained for many years.
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Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining
the best location for your MCT450.
Front View of the MCT450
17-1/2"
44.5cm
Dimensions
Rear View of the MCT450
17-1/8"
43.5cm
5-3/8"
13.7cm
4-5/8"
11.8cm
6"
15.2cm
13/16"
2.1cm
1-15/16"
4.9cm
Side View of the MCT450
16-3/8"
41.6cm
14-1/2"
36.8cm
10-9/16"
26.8cm
3/16"
0.5cm
2"
5.1cm
4-7/8"
12.8cm
13 -1/4"
33.7cm
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Installation
Installation
The MCT450 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 four feet may be removed from the bottom
of the MCT450 when it is custom installed as outlined below. The four feet together with the mounting
screws should be retained for possible future use if the
MCT450 is removed from the custom installation and
used free standing. The required panel cutout, ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are shown.
Always provide adequate ventilation for your
MCT450. Cool operation ensures the longest possible
operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not
install the MCT450 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 top, 2
inches (5.1cm) below the bottom and 1 inch (2.5cm) on
each side of the SACD/CD Transport, so that airflow
is not obstructed. Allow 17 inches (43.2cm) depth behind the front panel. Allow 1-1/8 inch (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.
MCT450 Front Panel
Custom Cabinet Cutout
MCT450 Side View
in Custom Cabinet
MCT450 Bottom View
in Custom Cabinet
Cabinet
Front
Panel
Support
Shelf
1"
2.54cm
17-3/16"
43.65cm
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
1-1/16"
2.70cm
8-5/8"
21.91cm
15-1/2"
39.37cm
Cutout Opening
for Ventilation
4-15/16"
12.54cm
Chassis
Spacers
15-1/16"
38.26cm
3"
7.62cm
Note: Center the cutout Horizontally on the unit.
For purposes of clarity, the above
illustration is not drawn to scale.
12-5/16"
31.27cm
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Rear Panel Connections
XLR DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT
sends a PCM Digital Signal to a
Preamplifier with internal D/A
Converter to decode the signal into
analog audio
DIN DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT
sends PCM or SACD Digital
Signal to a Preamplifier with
internal D/A Converter to decode
the signal into analog audio
DATA IN receives control data
from a McIntosh Control Center
Connect the MCT450 power cord to a live
AC outlet. Refer to information on the
back panel of your MCT450 to determine
the correct voltage for your unit
OPTICAL and COAXIAL DIGITAL
AUDIO OUTPUTS send a PCM
Digital Audio Signal to a Preamplifier or an A/V Control Center to
decode the signal into analog audio
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POWER CONTROL IN receives
turn-on signals from a McIntosh
component and POWER CONTROL
OUT sends turn-on signals on to
another McIntosh Component
IR IN for connecting an
IR Receiver
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Notes
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Connections using Digital DIN Output
Connections using Digital DIN Output
The MCT450 Digital Audio DIN Output Connector outputs PCM and SACD Digital Disc Signals
when connected to a compatible McIntosh Preamplifier. Power Control provides the ability to be remotely
switched On/Off from a McIntosh Preamplifier or
A/V Control Center via the Power Control connection.
The MCT450 Data Port Connection allows for
the remote operation of basic functions using the
Preamplifier Remote Control. When the MCT450
is used with a McIntosh D150 Digital Preamplifier,
the Remote Control supplied with the D150 will also
control the basic MCT450 transport functions. With
an external sensor connected to the MCT450, remote
control operation is possible from another room and/
or when the MCT450 is located in a cabinet with the
doors closed.
The connection instructions below, together with
the MCT450 Connection Diagram located on the
separate folded sheet “Mc1A, is an example of a typical audio system. Your system may vary from this,
however the actual components would be connected in
a similar manner. For additional information refer to
“Connector and Cable Information” on page 4.
Power Control Connections:
1. Connect a Control Cable from the Preamplifier
Power Control (or CNTRL) Jack to the POWER
CONTROL IN Jack on the McIntosh MCT450
SACD/CD Transport.
2. Optionally, connect a Control Cable from the
MCT450 SACD/CD Transport POWER CON-
TROL OUT Jack to additional McIntosh components with Power Control In Jack.
Data Control Connections:
3. When a connection on the Preamplifier is available, connect a Control Cable from the Preampli-
fier CD Data Port Jack to the McIntosh MCT450
SACD/CD Transport DATA IN Jack.
Sensor Connections:
4. Optionally, connect an IR Sensor to the McIntosh
MCT450 SACD/CD Transport IR IN Jack.
Digital Audio Connections:
5. Connect the supplied Digital DIN Cable from the
McIntosh MCT450 SACD/CD Transport DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT DIN connector to the
Digital DIN Input Connector on the on the Preamplifier.
Note: When the Digital DIN Output Connection
between the MCT450 and Digital DIN Audio
Input on a Pramplifier is used, no additional
Digital Audio Connections are necessary.
The Digital DIN Connection is for all types
of disc based Digital Signals.
AC Power Cords Connections:
6. Connect the McIntosh MCT450 SACD/CD Transport AC Power Cord to a live AC outlet.
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Connections using Digital Coaxial, Optical
or XLR
The MCT450 may be connected to a preamplifier via
the Coaxial, Optical or XLR Digital Balanced Output
Connections for playback of discs with PCM Digital
Signals.
Note: For playback of SACD Discs, the Digital DIN
Output Connection between the MCT450 and
Digital DIN Audio Input on a Preamplifier is
required.
The connection instructions below, together with the
MCT450 Connection Diagram located on the separate
folded sheet “Mc1B, is an example of a typical audio
system. Your system may vary from this, however the
actual components would be connected in a similar
manner. For additional information refer to “Connector and Cable Information” on page 4.
Power Control Connections:
1. Connect a Control Cable from the Preamplifier
Power Control (or CNTRL) Jack to the POWER
CONTROL IN Jack on the McIntosh MCT450
SACD/CD Transport.
2. Optionally, connect a Control Cable from the
MCT450 SACD/CD Transport POWER CON-
TROL OUT Jack to additional McIntosh components with Power Control In Jack.
Data Control Connections:
3. When a connection on the Preamplifier is available, connect a Control Cable from the Preampli-
fier CD Data Port Jack to the McIntosh MCT450
SACD/CD Transport DATA IN Jack.
Connections using Digital Coaxial, Optical or XLR
Digital Audio Connections:
4. Connect a fiber Optical Cable from the MCT450
SACD/CD Transport DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT, OPTICAL to the Optical Digital Input on the
Preamplifier.
Note: A Coaxial or XRL Digital Balanced Con-
nection may be used instead of the Optical
Connection.
AC Power Cords Connections:
5. Connect the McIntosh MCT450 SACD/CD Transport AC Power Cord to a live AC outlet.
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Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack
Select between Total
Remaining Time, Single Track Remaining
Time or Track Time
Disc Tray opens to
load and unload a disc
Standby Power On Indicator and the color
indicates the status of
the Auto Off Feature
IR Sensor receives
commands from a
Remote Control
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Selects the SACD
or CD Audio Tracks
from a hybrid disc
Move backward one
track at a time
track at a time
Stops disc playbackMove forward one
Front Panel Display indicates
various operation functions
and times
Opens and Closes the
disc tray for loading
or unloading discs
Starts disc playback and
pauses disc playback
STANDBY/ON Push-button switches
the MCT450 ON or OFF (Standby)
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Front Panel Information Display
Indicates when the
Track Number is
being displayed
Indicates the type
of disc loaded, CD
or SACD
Indicates the Programming or
Program Play Mode is active
Indicates the Random
Play Mode is active
Indicates the total disc
remaining playback time or
the current track remaining
playback time
Indicates when the
tracks on the CD disc
are MP3 or WMA
encoded
Indicates the sound channels on a CD or SACD
Disc. Left and Right Channels for a CD and
STEREO SACD Discs. Left, Center, Right, LFE
(subwoofer), Surround Left and Surround Right
on a Multichannel SACD Disc.
Indicates when
the Play Mode
is active
Indicates when
in the Pause
Mode
Indicates the Repeat
Mode selected; Repeat
All (Tracks) or Repeat
1 (Track)
Indicates the number of tracks on the Disc, Programmed
Tracks, the current Track Time, Remaining Track Time,
Total Disc Playing Time, Text and various other Information
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Remote Control Push-Buttons
SHIFT push-button with LED Indicators
used to select a push-button function
with white or gold color nomenclature
Push-buttons 2, 4, 6 and 8 used for navigating
up, down, left, right through tracks/folders
Use to CLEAR the last programmed track
Access the TEXT Display Mode when playing a SACD Disc containing the information
Use to select various disc information, including
time, on the Front Panel DISPlay. It is also used
to cancel the text display mode on a SACD Disc
Use to select the SACD or CD Tracks
from a hybrid disc for playback
Press Back to play the Previous Selection.
Also used to select one of various repeat
modes
Momentarily press to Power ON or OFF
Use to select disc tracks or
any numbered operation
Push-button 5 used to Enter the track/folder
indicated on the McIntosh Front Panel Display
Use to direct access tracks 10 and above
Selects Disc MODE or Folder Mode for navigating
and selection of music on a CD-ROM Disc
Press to play the NEXT Selection
14
Press once to PLAY, a second time to PAUSE
and a third time to RESUME playback. Also
used to activate random playback of the tracks
on a SACD or CD disc
Press to FAST-REVERSE thru the current
selection
Note: The Remote Control Push-buttons not identified are for use with other McIntosh Products
Press to FAST-FORWARD thru the current selection
Press to STOP disc playback
Page 15
How to use the Remote Control
The Remote Control is capable of performing most
Operating Functions for the MCT450 SACD/CD
Tra nsport.
If at any time the Player seems unresponsive to the
desired Remote Control Command, it may be necessary to select the color of the push-button nomenclature for the desired command. This is accomplished
by first pressing the SHIFT Push-button to select gold,
as indicated by the LED, and then within 3 seconds
pressing (or in the case of some functions repeatedly
pressing) the desired command push-button.
Note: Refer to the “How to Operate” Section of this
manual for additional information using this
Remote Control.
Play and Pause
With a disc loaded, press the PLAY Push-button to
start the disc playing. Press the PLAY Push-button
a second time to temporarily stop disc playback at any
time (Pause). To resume playback press the PLAY
Push-button again.
Note: The Play and Pause functions have been combined
into the Play Push-button.
Stop
Press the STOP< Push-button to stop disc playback
and return to displaying the table of contents of the
disc.
Numbered Push-buttons
Press 1 through 9 to directly access one of the first
nine Disc Tracks using the Front Panel Information
Display. For track numbers greater than 10, press the
+10 Push-button followed by the 0-9 Push-button. For
example, to access Disc Track 23, press the +10 Pushbutton twice and then the 3 Push-button.
Reverse and Fast Foward
Press the
7 (Reverse) or8 (Fast Forward) Push-button
to start moving rapidly through a track on the disc.
When the desired location is reached release the7
(Reverse) or8 (Fast Forward) Push-button to resume
normal playback.
Back and Next
Press the : (Next) Push-button to move forward one
track or the 9 (Back) Push-button to move back to the
beginning of the current track playing. Also used to
review the Programmed Tracks from the disc on the
Front Panel Information Display, while in the Program
Mode.
Note: If the 9 (Back) Push-button is pressed during
playback of the first three seconds of the track, the
SACD/CD will start playing back the previous track
from the beginning. If the Front Panel Information
Display is indicating time, the display will momentarily indicate the track number.
SACD or CD Track Selection
Press the DISC LAYER Push-button to select the
SACD or CD Tracks from a hybrid disc for playback.
Display/Time
Press the DISPlay/TIME Push-button to access various disc times. It is also used to return the Front Panel
Information Display to indicating time instead of text
information on a SACD Disc.
Menu/Text
Press the MENU/TEXT Push-button to select the various text information on a SACD Disc such as Album,
Artist and Track Titles (disc dependent).
How to use the Remote Control
Repeat Modes
Press the REPEAT Push-button to select either One
Track, All Tracks or cancel the Repeat Mode.
Clear
Press the CLEAR Push-button to erase a program
track(s).
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How to Operate the MCT450
OPEN
DISC
NO DISC
READING
CLOSE
Power On and Off
The LED above the STANDBY/ON Push-button lights
to indicate the MCT450 is connected to
AC Power. Refer to figure 1. The LED
also indicates the status of the Auto
Off Feature. When the MCT450 is in
the Standby Mode, green illumination
indicates the Auto Off Feature is enabled
Figu re 1
(default setting) and red illumination indicates the Auto Off Feature is disabled. For additional
information refer to “Power Mode” on page 20.
Note: When AC Power is initially applied to the
MCT450, the unit will momentarily switch On
and then go into the Standby Mode.
To Switch ON the MCT450, momentarily press the
STANDBY/ON Push-button on the Front Panel or
the (Power) Push-button on the Remote Control. Refer to figures 2 and 21. The LED above the
STANDBY/ON Push-button illuminates green. The
Front Panel Display will momentarily indicate “DISC”
followed by “READING” and then “NO DISC”.
Refer to figures 2, 3, 4, 5 and 21. To switch OFF the
MCT450, momentarily press the STANDBY/ON Pushbutton on the Front Panel or the OFF Push-button on
the Remote Control.
Figu re 3
Figu re 4
Figu re 5
How to Load and Unload a Disc
1. Press the OPEN/CLOSE Push-button. The disc
tray will slide out allowing a CD Disc to be loaded.
Refer to figure 6.
2. Press the OPEN/CLOSE Push-button
and the disc tray will close. Refer to fig-
Figu re 6
ure 7. Loading of the CD Disc’s Table
of Contents (number of tracks and
total playing time) will be indicated
on the Front Panel Display. Refer to
Figu re 7
figure 8.
12 58m32s
Figu re 8
Note: When a Disc is placed in the tray and the PLAY/
PAUSE Push-button is pressed, the tray will close
and the first track will start playing.
3. Pressing the OPEN/CLOSE Push-button will stop
playback of the disc and the disc tray will open.
How to Play a SACD Disc
Load a SACD Disc into the MCT450. The Front Panel
Display will first scroll the Album Title of the SACD
Disc (available on most SACD Discs). Refer to figures
9, 10 and 11.
ALBUM ARTIST: Jac
Figu re 9
TITLE: Dvorak: Cel
Fig u re 10
ak: Cello Concert
Fi g u r e 11
The Album Title is followed by the Table of Contents.
Refer to figure 12.
8 48m12s
Figu re 12
Press the PLAY/PAUSE/; Push-button on the Front
Panel of the MCT450 or on the Remote Control. Refer
to figures 2 and 21. The Disc will start playing the
first track of the SACD Layer.
Note: The default setting for SACD/CD Hybrid Disc
is to play the SACD Stereo Layer. The default
setting may be changed to play the CD Layer
or the SACD Multichannel Layer, when available. With the MCT450 On and no disc loaded,
press the DISC LAYER Push-button until the
Front Panel Display indicates the desired
layer.
16
Figu re 2
Page 17
How to Operate the MCT450
STEREO
CD
Selection of a different Layer (CD, Stereo or
Multichannel) can occur during playback of a disc by
pressing the DISC LAYER Push-button once to see
the current selection and a second or
third time to select the desired Layer.
Refer to figures 13, 14 and 15. The
Player will stop playing the current
Layer and then load the desired Lay-
Figure 13
MULTI
Figure 14
ers’ Table of Contents (Number of
tracks and Total Playing Time). Once
the information is indicated on the
Fig ure 15
front panel display, press the PLAY/
PAUSE/; Push-button. Refer to figure 16.
1 0m08s
Figure 16
Note: 1. Most SACD Disc(s) have the ability of dis-
playing the Album Title and Artist. With the
disc loaded, SACD Table of Contents read
and the disc stopped, press the MENU/TEXT
Push-button once for scrolling the Title and
twice for scrolling the Artist Name. Display of
the Artist information is not available during
playback of the disc. Refer to figures 17, 18
and 21.
ALBUM ARTIST: Jac
Fig u re 17
ARTIST: Jacintha
Figure 18
2. In a similar manner, some SACD Discs have
the ability of scrolling the Track Number and
Title by pressing the MENU/TEXT Push-but-
ton after the Track has started to play. Refer
to figures 19 and 21.
8: Autumn Leaves
Figure 19
3. The Text Display Mode may be canceled by
pressing the DISP/TIME Push-button on the
Remote Control. Refer to figure 21.
4. The various Time Modes may be displayed by
pressing the DISP/TIME Push-button on the
Remote Control. Refer to figure 21. For additional information on the Time Display Modes
refer to “Display Modes” on page 20.
5. SACD Discs containing Multichannel sound
tracks are down mixed into two channels and
available at the Analog Audio Outputs.
How to Play a CD Disc
With a disc already loaded into the MCT450, press the
PLAY/ PAUSE/; Push-button on the Front Panel of
the MCT450 or Remote Control. Refer to figures 2, 20
and 21.
1 0m05s
Figu re 20
How to Pause a Disc
This feature allows for the temporary stopping of disc
playback. Refer to figures 2 and 16.
1. When playing a Disc, press the PLAY/PAUSE/;
Push-button to temporarily stop playback.
2. Press the PLAY/PAUSE/; Push-button to re-
sume playing the disc.
Track Back
Return to the beginning of the Track
currently playing by rotating the
MCT450 Front Panel TRACK BACK
9 Control counterclockwise and then
releasing the control or momentarily
pressing the 9 Push-button on the
Remote Control. Rotate and hold the
TRACK BACK 9 Control or press
and hold the 9 Push-button on the
Remote Control for rapid selection of
the desired previous Tracks. Refer to
figures 2 and 21.
Track Next
Advance to the next Track by rotating the MCT450 Front Panel TRACK
NEXT : Control clockwise and then
releasing the control or momentarily
pressing the : Push-button on the
Remote Control. Rotate and hold the
TRACK NEXT : Control or press
and hold the : Push-button on the
Remote Control for rapid selection of
the next desired Track. Refer to figures
2 and 21.
Fast Forward or Reverse
Using the Remote Control, press the
8 (Fast Forward) or 7 (Reverse)
Push-button to search back and forth
Fig u re 21
rapidly through a Track on a disc. To return to normal
playback release the same 8 (Fast Forward) or 7
(Reverse) Push-button. Refer to figure 21.
17
Page 18
How to Operate the MCT450, con’t
Stop Mode
Press the STOP< Push-button at any time to stop
Playback. To listen to the disc again, press the PLAY/
PAUSE/; Push-button and playback will start from
the beginning of the disc.
Direct Track Selection
The MCT450 Front Panel Display indicates the Disc
Track currently playing. Use the Remote Control
NUMERIC Push-button(s) to enter the desired Track
Number. Refer to pages 14 and 15 for additional information using the Remote Control.
Repeat
This allows repeating a Track, Disc, Program Mode
or Random Play Mode on a continuous basis. Refer to
figures 2 and 24.
1. With the disc playing (Regular, Program or Random Playback Modes), press the SHIFT Push-button then the REPEAT Push-button once to activate
the Track Repeat (
button twice to activate the Disc Repeat (N). Refer
to figures 22 and 23.
N1); press the REPEAT Push-
1 0m05s
Figu re 22
1 0m05s
Figu re 23
2. To cancel the previously selected Repeat Mode,
press the REPEAT Push-button until the character
“1” and/or the symbol “
mation Display is extinguished.
Random Playback
This feature allows for listening to Tracks of a Disc in
a Random Order. Refer to figure 24.
Note: Before the Random Playback Mode feature on
the MCT450 can be activated, the disc must be
stopped or the message “Press
will momentarily appear on the Front Panel Display. Refer to figure 25.
1. With the MCT450 in the STOP< Mode press
the SHIFT Push-button and then the RANDOM
N” in the Front Panel Infor-
< (stop) first”
Press first
Figu re 25
Push-button. The word RANDom will be indicated in the Front Panel Display.
Refer to figure 26.
2. Press the PLAY/PAUSE/;
Push-button to start Random
Playback. After all the tracks have
been played the MCT450 will
stop.
Notes: 1. To provide continuous
playback of the disc, press
the REPEAT Push-button
twice to activate the Disc
Repeat (N) after the Ran-
dom Playback Mode has
started. If Repeat (N1) is
selected, the current track
will repeat.
2. The NEXT TRACK :
function will advance to
the next random selection
and start playing.
3. To cancel the Random Playback
Mode, press the STOP< Push-
button, then press the RANDOM
Push-button twice.
18
Figu re 2
Program Playback
This feature allows for playback of
selected Tracks on a Disc in the desired order. In the following example,
a Disc is programmed to play Track 6
followed by Track 4 and then Track 2.
Figu re 24
Page 19
12 58m32s
Figu re 26
Notes: 1. The MCT450 must be in STOP Mode with the
Disc TOC (Table of Contents) read before
the Program Playback Mode Feature can be
activated.
2. When programming Hybrid SACD Discs, first
choose the layer (SACD or CD) so the correct
TOC can be read, as some discs have different
selections for the SACD and CD Tracks.
1. Press the SHIFT Push-button and then the RANDOM Push-button twice to access the Program
Mode. Refer to figures 2, 24 and 27.
12 58m32s
Figu re 27
2. Enter the first desired selection (track 6) using the
Numeric Push-buttons. The Front Panel Display
will first indicate track 6 followed by indicating the total number of tracks and total playback
time for the current program. Refer to figures 28
and 29.
4 m s
Figu re 30
2 8m28s
Figure 31
2 m s
Figure 32
3 15m53s
Figure 33
Note: To view and/or delete the selections pro-
grammed, use the TRACK NEXT :
Push-button to step through programmed
tracks and the CLEAR Push-button to remove any unwanted selections.
4. To start playback of the just entered program,
press the PLAY/PAUSE/ ; Push-button. Refer
to figure 34.
How to Operate the MCT450, con’t
5. To cancel the Program Playback Mode, press the
STOP< Push-button, then the SHIFT Push-button
and then the RANDOM Push-button.
Once the Program Playback Mode is active, tracks
may be added or deleted by first pressing the STOP<
Push-button followed by entering the additional tracks
using the Numeric Push-buttons or delete the last
track programed by using the CLEAR Push-button.
MP3/WMA Disc Playback
The MCT450 has the ability of playing back MP3
and WMA encoded discs. MP3 and some version of
WMA coding allow more tracks on the Disc by using the technique of lossy compression applied to the
original audio information. These Tracks have lower
audio quality than the original recording. Load a MP3/
WMA disc into the MCT450. Refer to figure 36.
DISC 10
Figu re 36
The MCT450 has two MP3/WMA Modes of Operation: Disc Mode and Folder Mode. Refer to figures
37 and 38. Select the desired mode by pressing the
6 m s
Figu re 28
1 4m59s
Figu re 29
3. In a similar manner, enter the remaining Tracks 4
and 2. Refer to figures 30 thru 33.
6 0m03s
Figu re 34
After playback begins, the Repeat Mode can be
activated to provide continuous playback of the
Programmed Track(s). Refer to figure 24.
Note: To momentarily stop playback, press the
PL AY/PAUSE
sume Program Playback press the PLAY/
PAUSE/; Push-button.
/;Push-button. To re-
DISC MODE
Figure 37
FOLDER MODE
Figu re 38
MODE Push-button on the Remote Control.
The Disc Mode will play back all the tracks on the
disc starting with tracks not in folders first, followed
19
Page 20
How to Operate the MCT450, con’t
by the track contained in the folder second. The Folder
Mode will play back the tracks contained in the selected folder. Refer to figure 39.
1 mp-3
Figure 39
1. Press the PLAY/PAUSE/; Push-button to start
Playback. Refer to figure 40.
4 2m15s
Figu re 40
After all the tracks have been played the MCT450
will stop.
Note: Use the ▲ up and ▼ down directional Push-
buttons to select folders on the disc.
Display Modes
The MCT450 Front Panel Display indicates both track
number and playing time. There are three playing time
display indications: track elapse time, track remaining
time or disc remaining time. To change from the de-
fault setting of track elaspe time, press the DSP/TIME
Push-button on the Remote Control. Refer to figures
24, 41, 42 and 43.
1 1m35s
Figure 41
1 -2m35s
Figu re 42
1 -51m33s
Figure 43
Display Brightness
There are four available Settings for the Front Panel
Display. The choices include three brightness settings,
high (default setting), medium or low and the display
may be switched Off. To change the brightness setting
perform the following steps and refer to figure 24:
1. Press the SHIFT Push-button.
2. Momentarily press the 2 (DIM) Push Button to
change the current brightness setting. Repeat this
until the desired brightness setting is selected.
3. Press the DISC LAYER Push-button to store the
new brightness setting.
Power Mode
The MCT450 incorporates an Auto Off Feature, which
can automatically place the SACD/CD Transport into
the Power Saving Standby/Off Mode (default setting).
This occurs approximately 30 minutes after there
has been an absence of a Digital Audio Signal. If it is
desirable to disable the Auto Off Feature, perform the
following steps:
1. Using the MCT450 Remote Control, press and
hold in the (Power) Push-button for about 5-10
seconds, at which time the Front Panel Display
indicates “Auto STBY Off”. Refer to figure 44.
Auto STBY Off
Figu re 44
2. The MCT450 will switch Off and the LED above
the STAND/BY Push-button will illuminate Red
in color. Press the (Power) Push-button to
switch the MCT450 On.
3. To re-active the Auto Off Feature, press and hold
in the Power Push-button on the Remote Control for about 5-10 seconds, at which time the Front
Panel Display indicates “Auto STBY On”. Refer to
figure 45.
20
Auto STBY On
Figure 45
Figu re 2
Page 21
How to Operate the MCT450, con’t
4. The MCT450 will switch Off and the LED above
the STAND/BY Push-button will illuminate Green
in color. Press the (Power) Push-button to
switch the MCT450 On.
Resetting the MCT450
In the unlikely event the MCT450 stops functioning,
first try resetting the Main (System) microprocessor
by performing the following:
1. Simultaneously press and hold in the Front Panel
TIME and DISC LAYER Push-buttons until the
illumination of the LED above the STAND/BY
Push-button goes Off. The MCT450 will then
switch Off.
2. Press the STAND/BY Push-button to switch the
MCT450 back On.
Note: Resetting of the microprocessor also places
the Power Saving Mode into the default
setting of On.
If the MCT450 is still not functioning properly, reset
the Secondary (Transport) microprocessor by performing the following:
1. Switch Off A.C. Power going to the MCT450.
Note: Temporarily, connect the AC Power Cord
coming from the MCT450 into an AC Power
Strip with an On/Off Switch. Position the
AC Power Strip so the On/Off Switch on
the strip is in very close proximity to the
MCT450 Front Panel NEXT and STOP
Push-buttons (the MCT450 Remote Control
STOP Push-button will not work for reset-
ting the micro).
2. Press and hold in the NEXT: and STOP< Push-
buttons while at the same time switching On the
AC Power Strip.
3. The Front Panel will indicate “RESET” and then
go through the process of reading the Disc for
playback. At this time release the NEXT: and
the STOP< Push-button.
4. The MCT450 will resume normal operation.
Figu re 24
21
Page 22
Specications
Digital Audio Specifications
Digital Audio Output Format
Coaxial, Optical and XLR: SPDIF (PCM1), IEC958
Digital DIN: SPDIF (PCM1), IEC958 and DSD
(SACD)
Digital Audio Outputs
Coaxial: 0.5V p-p/75 ohms
Optical: - 15dbm to -21dbm (TOS Link)
XLR: 0.5V p-p/150 ohms
Digital DIN: 3V @110 ohms
Digital Audio Output Sample Rates
Coaxial: Up to 24-Bit/96kHz
Optical: Up to 24-Bit/192kHz
XLR: Up to 24-Bit/192kHz, Up to 32-Bit/96kHz
1
PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) Digital Signal type used for
CD Discs
2
DSD (Direct Stream Digital) Digital Signal type used for
SACD Di sc s
General Specifications
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 0.5 watt
Note: Refer to the rear panel of the MCT450 for the cor-
rect voltage.
Overall Dimensions
Width is 17-1/2 inches (44.4cm)
Height is 6 inches (15.2cm)
Depth is 19 inches (48.3cm) including the Front Panel
and Cables
Note: When the Disc Tray is opened, the panel clear-
ance required in front of mounting panel is 6-3/4
inches (17.2cm).
22
Weig ht
26 pounds (11.8Kg) net, 40.5 pounds (18.4Kg) in ship-
ping carton
Shipping Carton Dimensions
Width is 26-1/2 inches (67.3cm)
Depth is 24-1/4 inches (62.2cm)
Height is 11-3/4 inches (29.9cm)
Page 23
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. Refer to page 4. Please
see the Part List for the correct part numbers.
Packing Instructions
Quantity Part Number Description
1 033838 Shipping carton only
4 033837 End cap
1 033836 Inside carton only
1 033725 Top pad
1 034301 Bottom pad
2 034446 Foam plug
4 017937 Plastic foot
4 400159 #10-32 x 3/4” screw
4 404080 #10 Flat washer
23
Page 24
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, NY 13903
www.mcintoshlabs.com
The continuous improvement of its products is the
policy of McIntosh Laboratory Incorporated who
reserve the right to improve design without notice.
Printed in the U.S.A.
McIntosh Part No. 04155201
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