The MCD12000 includes our Hybrid Drive technology that uses the best of vacuum tubes and solid state to produce the best sound performance. It offers both balanced and unbalanced fixed analog outputs in both vacuum tube and solid state configurations. This abundance of output options gives you the flexibility to decide which to use based on the music selection, the audio components in the rest of your home audio system, and your personal sound preferences. A pair of 60dB output meters show the signal level that’s being delivered from the analog outputs of each channel. While the volume is controlled by your preamplifier, integrated amplifier, or other control device, the meters on the MCD12000 will respond to the music being played through it and move back and forth accordingly.

The Digital-to-Analog convertor (DAC) in the MCD12000 has received Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs, which can be especially useful if you have an extensive library of digital music. As a Roon Tested partner, McIntosh has provided equipment to Roon for testing with a variety of different operating systems and computers, and shared information about its design and capabilities.

BRAND: McIntosh

SERIES: MCD12000 2-Channel SACD/CD Player
TYPE: Sources

OVERVIEW

  • Bring all your digital music to life with the MCD12000 SACD/CD Player.
    While classified as a CD player, it is better to think of the MCD12000 as a
    reference level Digital-to-Analog convertor (DAC) that includes reference
    level SACD/CD playback capabilities.

  • At the heart of the MCD12000 are two ESS SABRE PRO ES9038PRO
    32-bit/8-channel DACs, with one DAC dedicated to each the left and right
    audio channels. Music played through any of the MCD12000’s digital
    inputs or from CDs is processed by these professional grade DACs that
    are designed for premium audiophile performance and recording studios.

  • Includes seven digital inputs. The coax and optical inputs support up to
    24-bit/192kHz. The USB input supports up to 32-bit/384kHz, as well as
    DSD512 and DXD384kHz.

  • Offers both balanced and unbalanced fixed analog outputs in both solidstate and vacuum tube configurations. This abundance of output options gives you the flexibility to decide which to use based on the music
    selection, the audio components in the rest of your home audio system,
    and your personal sound preferences.

  • All outputs are driven by discrete amplifiers or a blend of vacuum tubes
    and discrete amplifiers. For vacuum tube output, one 12AT7 tube and one
    12AX7A tube are assigned to each the left and right audio channel. Solidstate output is via a discrete balanced op-amp.

  • While the volume is controlled by your preamplifier, integrated amplifier,
    or other control device, the meters on the MCD12000 will respond to the
    music being played through it and move back and forth accordingly.

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MCD12000 (bottom) shown with the two-chassis C12000 Preamplifier. MCD12000 and C12000 sold separately.

Two-in-One: A Reference Level DAC and a Reference Level CD Player.

Bring all your digital music to life in your home audio system with the MCD12000 SACD/CD Player. While classified as a CD player, it is better to think of the MCD12000 as a reference level Digital-to-Analog convertor (DAC) that includes reference level SACD/CD playback capabilities. Music played through any of the MCD12000’s digital inputs or from compact discs is processed by professional grade 8-channel DACs designed for premium audiophile performance and recording studios. The MCD12000 is the perfect DAC and SACD/CD Player to use with the reference level C12000 Preamplifier.

 

At the heart of the MCD12000 are two ESS SABRE PRO ES9038PRO 32-bit/8-channel DACs, with one DAC dedicated to the left audio channel, and the other DAC dedicated to the right audio channel. Each DAC uses ESS’ patented HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator to deliver an unprecedented performance level that will satisfy the needs of the most demanding digital audio applications. Each ES9038PRO is configured in Octal-Balanced Mono mode where the DAC’s eight outputs are used to drive the analog audio, resulting in outstanding sound quality. Separate digital and analog power supplies keep the power and audio signals free from cross contamination, while a specially constructed R-Core power transformer minimizes noise radiation.

1949 – 2024: MCINTOSH CELEBRATES 75 YEARS OF AUDIO EXCELLENCE

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Since our inception in 1949 under the visionary guidance of Frank McIntosh, we have been unwavering in our commitment to the art of sound reproduction. The year 2024 marks a historic milestone for McIntosh as we proudly celebrate our 75th Anniversary – a testament to our enduring passion for crafting audio experiences that transcend expectations.

THE MCD12000 75TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

In honor of this momentous occasion, we present the special MCD12000 75th Anniversary Edition. The Anniversary Edition boasts a distinctive dual anodized laser-engraved badge proudly displaying our 75th Anniversary logo on the top, while each handle is engraved with a graceful “75 years” inscription. This exclusive edition is a celebration of our relentless pursuit of excellence. All performance specifications, functionality, and dimensions of the anniversary edition are the same as the non-anniversary version.

HOW TO SECURE YOUR PIECE OF THIS SONIC LEGACY

When placing your order with your dealer in 2024, you must specify you want the MCD12000 75th Anniversary Edition. Otherwise you will receive the stock version that does not include the commemorative anniversary markings.

COMPLETE 75TH ANNIVERSARY PRODUCT FAMILY

Our 75th Anniversary product lineup extends beyond the MCD12000, encompassing the MC2.1KW Monoblock Amplifier, MC1.25KW Monoblock AmplifierC12000 Solid State and Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, and MA12000 Integrated Amplifier. These anniversary editions of these audio marvels stand as beacons of artistry and precision, embodying the very essence of McIntosh’s 75-year sonic odyssey.

With each, we invite you to join our passion for the profound impact of music, craftsmanship, and the transformative experience of listening. Let the MCD12000 and its companions elevate your auditory senses, inspiring you to explore new realms of sonic bliss.

TECHNICAL 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, and WMA

Frequency Response
SACD: 4Hz-40kHz +0.5dB/-2dB
CD: 4Hz-20kHz +/-0.5dB

Total Harmonic Distortion
0.003%

S/N Ratio
110dB

Dynamic Range
Better than 100dB

Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)
(2) ESS SABRE PRO ES9038PRO
32-bit/8-channel DACs configured in
Octal-Balanced Mono mode

Inputs
2 Coax
2 Optical
1 USB (Type B)
1 AES/EBU
1 MCT

Outputs
1 Balanced Solid-State
1 Balanced Vacuum Tube
1 Unbalanced Solid-State
1 Unbalanced Vacuum Tube
1 Coax
1 Optical
(all are fixed output)

Overall Dimensions (W x H x D)
17-1/2” (44.5cm) x 7-5/8” (19.4cm)
x 16.375” (41.6cm)

Weight
32.5 lbs (14.7kg) net,
48 lbs (21.8kg) in shipping carton

OTHER PRODUCTS: PRODUCTS / SOURCES