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Overview

The Absolute Sound 2022 Editors Choice Award logo

Be transported into your music with the MCT500 SACD/CD Transport.

The MCT500 is a digital only unit and features 4 digital outputs: industry standard balanced, coax and optical outputs plus our exclusive MCT connector. To enjoy your CDs, it can be paired with any product that has standard digital inputs and a digital-to-analog convertor (DAC). This includes select McIntosh home theater processors, integrated amplifiersand preamplifiers.

For SACD playback, the MCT500’s proprietary MCT output needs to be connected (via the included cable) to a McIntosh product with an MCT input. This includes the D1100, C55, C2800, C49and D150preamplifiers, MA9500, MA8950, MA7200or MA5300integrated amplifiers or MAC7200receiver. When the MCT500 is connected to one of these devices, a secure digital connection is created, allowing for the playback of the high definition audio found on SACDs. Regular CDs can also be played over the MCT connection.

All common disc types can be played on the MCT500, including SACD, CD, CD-R/RW and DVD-R. A twin laser optical pickup assures optimal disc reading. A USB input is conveniently located on the front panel for easy access. In addition to store bought CDs and SACDs, popular file formats such as AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and WMA can be played from user generated CD or DVD Data Discs and USB flash drives.1

Disc handling is smooth and quiet thanks to an advanced disc transport with a precision die-cast aluminum tray. An advanced digital servo provides fast, quiet and accurate operation. A disc’s audio data is read at twice the normal rate insuring better disc tracking and error correction processing.

Integration with other McIntosh system components is achieved via the Power Control and data ports. The MCT500 is wrapped in classic McIntosh styling with a polished stainless steel chassis, black glass front panel, illuminated logo and aluminum end caps. Contact your local dealerto learn more.

1) The maximum resolution of the MCT output is 24-bit/96kHz. For resolutions higher than this, the balanced, coax or optical output must be used.

Specifications

Audio Specifications

Number of Channels

2

Fixed Output Level

N/A

Variable Output Level

N/A

Output Impedance

N/A

Frequency Response

N/A

Signal To Noise Ratio

N/A

Dynamic Range

N/A

Total Harmonic Distortion

N/A

Channel Separation

N/A

Headphone Output Impedance

N/A

Digital Audio Specifications

Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) Type

N/A

Coaxial Sample Rate

N/A

Optical Sample Rate

N/A

USB Sample Rate

N/A

Digital Coaxial Input

N/A

Digital Optical Input

N/A

Digital Output Sample Rate

Coaxial: Up to 24-Bit/192kHz

Optical: Up to 24-Bit/192kHz

XLR: Up to 24-Bit/192kHz

MCT: Up to 24-bit/96kHz (CD); DSD128 (SACD and Data DVD)

Digital Optical Output

-15dbm to -21dbm

Digital Coaxial Output

0.5V p-p/75 ohms

Digital Output Jitter

≤ 32ns with 1kHz test tone

Digital XLR Output

5V p-p/150 ohms

Digital MCT Output

3V @110 ohms

Connectivity

Balanced Fixed Output

0

Unbalanced Fixed Output

0

Balanced Variable Output

0

Unbalanced Variable Output

0

Digital Coaxial Inputs

0

Digital MCT Inputs

0

Digital Optical Inputs

0

Digital USB Input

1 (front)

Digital USB Input Type

Type A

Digital Coaxial Outputs

1

Digital MCT Output

1

Digital Optical Outputs

1

Digital XLR Output

1

Headphone Output

0

Control

Power Control Inputs

1

Power Control Outputs

1

Rear Panel Data Inputs

1

Rear Panel IR Sensor Inputs

1

RS232 Control Inputs

0

General Specifications

Disc Formats

SACD, CD, CD-R/RW and DVD-R; popular file formats such as AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and WMA

Disc Capacity

1

Laser Type

Twin Beam

Laser Beam Wavelength

650nm (SACD)

790nm (CD)

Laser Power

CLASS IIa/CLASS I

Standby Power Requirement

<0.5 watt

Weights & Dimensions

Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)

17-1/2" (44.45cm) x 6" (15.24cm) x 19" (48.3cm) Note: When the Disc Tray is opened, the panel clearance required in front of mounting panel is 6-3/4 inches (17.2cm).

Unit Weight

26 lbs (11.8 kg)

Shipping Weight

40.5 lbs (18.4 kg)

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Do you price match?

Yes. We match any authorised dealer, including big-box retailers. If you find the same product at a lower price, contact us and we'll match it.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — free shipping on every order, with 2-day delivery available on most products. Easy returns and exchanges are included.

Where is your showroom?

We're at 6362 Alder Drive, Houston, Texas. The showroom lets you hear and compare reference-level systems in person before making any decisions. If you're considering a larger purchase or installation, it's well worth the visit.

Can I buy online without visiting the showroom?

Yes. The full product range is available through the online store with free nationwide shipping. For more complex system builds, speaking with one of our advisers first tends to lead to a better result.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Special financing is available through the BrandSource Credit Card for qualifying purchases, allowing you to spread payments over time with no annual fee. Promotional rebate savings are also available periodically. See the financing page for full details.

Do you install systems as well as sell equipment?

Yes — installation is central to what we do. We design and install whole-home audio and video, home theaters, media rooms, outdoor audio, lighting and motorised shades, and full smart home automation.

Do you provide support after installation?

Yes. We provide ongoing service and support to ensure systems continue performing as intended — not just on installation day, but over the long term.