Featuring the ESS Sabre32 Reference DAC, Quad Balanced architecture, USB input, and McIntosh’s iconic design, the MCD550 turns SACD and CD playback into a truly reference-level audiophile experience with stunning clarity and depth.
The McIntosh MCD550 SACD/CD player features an 8-channel reference-level ES9018 Sabre32 Reference DAC (32-bit/192 kHz) from ESS Technology, operating in Quad Balanced Mode (four DAC channels for each stereo channel). This chip can process PCM and DSD signals, delivering exceptionally low jitter and a wide dynamic range of up to 133 dB (in stereo). The power supply is equipped with a high-quality R-Core transformer.
The McIntosh MCD550 player features a higher read speed, and a large memory buffer prevents errors. It utilizes two laser heads that share a common focusing lens. The McIntosh MCD550 boasts a stylish, signature design and a stainless steel chassis. The glass front panel features fiber-optic backlighting that complements the LEDs. Decorative aluminum accents line the sides. The narrow, cast disc tray is located in the center of the front panel, and the drive itself boasts high read accuracy and quiet operation.
Below is a display showing the track number, time, and other symbols. On the right side is a volume knob and a micro-display showing the volume level in percent, as well as control buttons, disc eject, and power/standby. On the left is a track selector knob, a 6.3mm headphone jack, a mute button, source selector buttons, and buttons for selecting one of the hybrid SACD layers.
Outputs: Fixed balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs, which are duplicated by similar adjustable outputs, as well as optical and coaxial outputs. Adjustable connectors allow the McIntosh MCD550 to be connected directly to the input of a power amplifier, eliminating the need for a preamplifier. Inputs: coaxial, optical, and an asynchronous USB port for connecting to a computer.
There are also two system bus connectors for remote power control. There is an IR receiver jack and a DATA IN input, allowing this model to be controlled using other McIntosh components. The unit is equipped with a remote control with backlit keys. The McIntosh MCD550 player delivers a precise, smooth, natural, and well-balanced musical sound with an impressively large soundstage.
McIntosh MCD550 Specifications
- Supported Formats CD-DA, SACD (including hybrid discs), CD-R/RW, MP3 and WMA files recorded on discs
- DAC 8-channel reference converter ES9018 Sabre32 Reference (32 bit/192 kHz), operates in
- Quad Balanced Mode (4 DAC channels per stereo channel)
- Frequency Response SACD: 4 Hz – 40 kHz (+ 0.5, – 2 dB), CD: 4 Hz – 20 kHz (± 0.5 dB)
- Dynamic Range More than 100 dB
- Harmonic Distortion 0.002%
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio 110 dB
- Channel Separation 98 dB
- Inputs Coaxial, Optical, Asynchronous USB (Type B, up to 24 bit/192 kHz)
- Outputs 2 x RCA (variable and fixed), 2 x XLR (adjustable and fixed), optical, coaxial, 6.3 mm headphone jack (16–600 Ohm)
- Other connections 2 system bus connectors, IR receiver jack, DATA IN connector for controlling the player using other McIntosh devices
- The player’s digital outputs feed an audio stream with a resolution of 24 bits/192 kHz yes
- Built-in volume control yes
- Output voltage (fixed analog outputs) 2 V (RCA), 4 V (XLR)
- Output voltage (adjustable analog outputs) 0–8 V (RCA), 0–16 V (XLR)
- Output impedance 600 Ohm (for RCA and XLR)
- Output impedance (headphone output) 47 Ohm
- Power consumption 35 W
- Power consumption in standby mode less than 0.5 W
- Remote control with button backlight
- Dimensions (WxHxD) 445x152x483 mm
- Weight 12.7 kg