McIntosh has announced the MCT500 SACD/CD Transport. The MCT500 is a digital only unit and features 4 digital outputs: industry standard balanced, coax and optical outputs plus the MCT connector. It can be paired with any product that has standard digital inputs and a DAC.

For SACD playback, the MCT500’s proprietary MCT output needs to be connected (via the included cable) to a McIntosh product with an MCT input. This includes select McIntosh preamplifiers and integrated amplifiers. When an MCT connection is made, a secure digital connection is created, allowing for the playback of the high definition audio found on SACDs. Regular CDs can also be played over the MCT connection.

All common disc types can be played on the MCT500, including SACD, CD, CD-R/RW and DVD-R. A USB input is located on the front panel. In addition popular file formats such as AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and WMA can be played from user generated CD or DVD Data Discs and USB flash drives. The disc transport has a die-cast aluminium tray operated by a digital servo and the disc’s audio data is read at twice the normal. Integration with other McIntosh system components is achieved via the Power Control and data ports.

The MCT500 features classic McIntosh styling with a polished stainless steel chassis, black glass front panel, illuminated logo and aluminium end caps.

Pricing and Availability

Suggested retail price (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded): $4,500 USD and £5995 in the UK. Shipping this month in the USA and March/April in the UK.