7 digital inputs and upgradability might not seem all that sexy but for the McIntosh MDA200 D/A Converter — it’s the best reason to consider it.
Not everyone believes that buying a DAC makes a lot of sense anymore; formats and technology change so rapidly that your new DAC is obsolete even before you plug it in and manufacturers have to decide if offering support for MQA, DSD, and hi-resolution PCM makes sense.
Adding to that is the reality that most network and CD players come with their own internal DAC and offer support for 32-bit/192kHz or higher PCM and DSD128 or DSD256.
Some CD players and network players also offer digital inputs that allow you to connect other digital sources and use the superior internal DAC instead.
Active and powered loudspeakers now utilize their own internal DACs for wireless and wired playback from digital sources like DAPs, smartphones, CD transports, or network players.
Knowing all of that, why would anyone consider an external DAC in 2022?
Sound quality. Connectivity. Being somewhat future-proof in the case of the MDA200 when it comes to the D/A converter.
McIntosh today introduced the MDA200 D/A Converter for $4,000 USD. The audiophile-grade DAC serves as an upgrade to replace older D/A converters that may now be obsolete and outdated.
The internal McIntosh DA2 Digital Audio Module is designed with the capability of being replaced by a newer digital audio module in the future – positioning the MDA200 as a timeless investment and addition to a home audio system for years to come.
At the heart of the MDA200 is the McIntosh DA2 Digital Audio Module featured in the award-winning MA12000 Integrated Amplifier and C2700 and C53 Preamplifiers, now offered as a standalone D/A converter.
The DA2 in the MDA200 is powered by a next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This audiophile-grade DAC features enhanced dynamic range and improved total harmonic distortion.
The DA2 supports high resolution digital audio playback, as the USB input supports native playback of up to DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while the coax and op tical inputs can decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz. The MDA200 includes (7) digital audio inputs: 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, 1 MCT (to pair with the brand’s MCT series of SACD/CD Transports), and 1 audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) connection.
Features
- HDMI (ARC) input to enhance television and film experience
- Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs
- Balanced and unbalanced analog outputs for preamplifier or integrated amplifier connection
- McIntosh’s iconic design elements including illuminated logo, rotary control knobs, custom machined aluminum end caps and black glass faceplate
Price & Availability
The MDA200 will be available via US Authorized McIntosh Dealers beginning November 2022 with the rest of the world soon after, with an MSRP of $4,000 USD.
