Addressing a common problem in AV, McIntosh has introduced a new upgradeable DAC designed to protect owners against future changes in digital audio technology.
The MDA200 D/A Converter is based on McIntosh’s established DA2 Digital Audio Module which featured in the award-winning MA12000 Integrated Amplifier as well as the C2700 and C53 Preamplifiers.
The DA2 Digital Audio Module has been designed with the ability to be replaced by a newer digital audio module in the future, making the MDA200 D/A Converter an investment to keep home audio systems current for years, if not decades, to come.
The audiophile-grade MDA200 features a next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter as well as enhanced dynamic range and improved total harmonic distortion.
It offers support for high-resolution digital audio playback, with the USB input providing native DSD playback up to DSD512 and DXD to 384 kHz. The coax and optical inputs support up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
The MDA200 benefits from seven digital audio inputs: two coaxial, two optical, one USB, one MCT (to pair with McIntosh’s MCT series of SACD/CD Transports), plus an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) to improve sound quality from TVs.
Ideal for audiophiles, it includes balanced and unbalanced analogue outputs, plus Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs.
Recognisable as a McIntosh product, the MDA200 features the brand’s classic design elements, including an illuminated logo, rotary control knobs, custom machined aluminium endcaps and a black-glass faceplate.
The price point for the new upgradable DAC is $4,995. Shipping has started in the US and Canada with the rest of the world following thereafter.