McIntosh has launched the MCD85 SACD/CD Player, a new compact-chassis device which brings the latest McIntosh digital technologies to lifetime-built CD and SACD collections, plus USB connectivity for McIntosh sound quality from everyday digital devices.
Designed to complement the recently launched MC830 Solid State Amplifier and C8 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, the new open-chassis MCD85 SACD/CD Player has been painstakingly hand-built for both CD/SACD and contemporary music-listening.
In addition to CD/SACD playback, the MCD85 SACD/CD Player benefits from a USB input which supports high-resolution audio (up to DSD256 and DXD 384 kHz). The device’s advanced internal DAC enables playback from smart devices, computers and USB-equipped devices, all with the legendary McIntosh sound quality. A further two coaxial and two optical (192kHz-capable) digital inputs are also included.
The MCD85 SACD/CD Player’s internal digital-to-analogue convertor (DAC) is an advanced quad balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit/192 kHz device: four DAC pathways are dedicated to the left audio channel and four to the right, to ensure exceptional stereo reproduction.
For CD and SACD data, the MCD85 benefits from a 2x read speed and a buffer memory for better error correction and tracking. Discs are placed in a high-quality die-cast tray which features a new, custom front beveled nose to match the angle of the chassis, while providing smooth and quiet disc handling. Disc reading is performed by a high-quality disc mechanism using a twin-laser optical pickup (single objective lens, two laser units), each employing different wavelengths optimised for SACD and CD.
McIntosh’s Power Control and Data Ports allow for seamless integration with other McIntosh components and for connection to other high-performance home audio equipment, the MCD85 SACD/CD Player features both balanced and unbalanced fixed analogue stereo outputs.
A die-cast aluminium name badge is affixed to each side of the chassis. The front, top and rear of the chassis is polished to a mirror finish, similar to the aforementioned MC830 and C8. The MCD85 features a black glass front panel with direct LED backlighting for improved appearance, silver trim, an illuminated logo and rotary control knobs.
Pricing and availability
Orders for the £4,995 MCD85 can now be placed with authorised McIntosh dealers. Shipping is expected in March 2021 (UK) and Feb (United States and Canada).
Read more about the McIntosh MCD85 at mcintoshlabs.com