McIntosh
McIntosh MCT500
Best high-end disc transport for audiophiles with existing digital systems.
Experience pristine audio with the McIntosh MCT500, a dedicated SACD/CD transport designed for discerning listeners. This digital-only component seamlessly integrates with external DACs or McIntosh systems, offering superior disc playback. Its advanced transport mechanism and dual-laser optical pickup ensure accurate data retrieval from SACDs and CDs. A front-panel USB input expands your listening options to high-resolution audio files. Encased in classic McIntosh styling with a polished stainless steel chassis, the MCT500 combines exceptional performance with timeless aesthetics for an elevated home audio experience.
$6500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
14
/ 239
#14 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
+41%
Above average
Type
SACD/CD Transport
/ SACD/CD Transport
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking pure DSD signal transmission to McIntosh systems
- Collectors valuing iconic design and long-term hardware durability
- Listeners demanding precise, jitter-free playback for high-resolution discs
Who should skip it
- Owners of third-party DACs seeking full SACD format compatibility
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for high-value audio equipment
- Minimalists wanting an all-in-one player with integrated conversion
Performance breakdown
Data Retrieval Accuracy
Dual-laser optical pickup ensures flawless reading of SACD and CD media.
Build Integrity
Polished stainless steel chassis offers exceptional durability and classic McIntosh aesthetics.
System Integration
Proprietary MCT output provides seamless high-resolution connectivity with compatible McIntosh components.
Format Versatility
Handles high-resolution DSD and WAV files via the front-panel USB input.
Mechanical Operation
Precision die-cast aluminum tray ensures smooth and quiet disc loading.
User Accessibility
Lacks a remote control and requires an external DAC for playback.
Key Specs
Type
SACD/CD Transport
Weight
11.8 kg
Digital Audio Outputs
1 Balanced, 1 Coaxial, 1 Optical, 1 MCT
Output Formats (Balanced/Coaxial/Optical)
SPDIF up to 24 bits/192 kHz
Output Formats (MCT)
Supports SACD and DSD up to DSD128
Supported Media
CD, SACD, CD-R/RW, DVD-R
Playback Formats (USB)
DSD up to DSD128, WAV up to 24 bits/192 kHz
Requires external DAC for analog output
Features
- Dedicated SACD/CD transport
- MCT output for high-resolution transfer
- USB input for file playback
- Dual-laser optical pickup
- Precision die-cast aluminum tray
- Quiet operation with digital servo
- Classic McIntosh design
- System integration ports
What customers say
The McIntosh MCT500 earns high praise, primarily for its exceptional build quality and performance stability. Owners describe the unit as beautifully crafted, embodying the classic McIntosh aesthetic with a robust chassis and flawless finish. Its core strength lies in delivering rock solid, low jitter digital output, which is vital for maximizing external DAC performance, especially via the proprietary MCT connection. The transport reliably handles both CDs and SACDs with precision. While the cost is significant, users feel the MCT500 justifies its price as an endgame component. It is viewed as a long term investment for serious audiophiles committed to achieving the absolute best in physical media retrieval when paired with a quality external DAC.
Know before you buy
No, the MCT500 is a dedicated transport, meaning it does not have an internal digital-to-analog converter. You will need to connect it to an external DAC or a McIntosh component with a built-in DAC to hear audio through your speakers.
The MCT output is a proprietary connection designed to send high-resolution audio, including SACD and DSD files, to compatible McIntosh components. It provides a secure, high-bandwidth digital link that preserves the integrity of your high-resolution discs.
Yes, the front-panel USB input supports high-resolution playback, including DSD files up to DSD128 and WAV files up to 24-bit/192 kHz. This allows you to use the unit as a digital player for your stored music files in addition to playing physical discs.
The MCT500 is compatible with SACDs, standard CDs, CD-R/RW discs, and DVD-R discs. It is designed specifically for high-fidelity playback of these formats using its precision dual-laser optical pickup.
No, a remote control is not included with the MCT500. It is intended to be integrated into a larger McIntosh system, where it can be controlled via the system integration ports or the remote control of your connected McIntosh preamplifier or integrated amplifier.
The dual-laser system uses two separate laser wavelengths optimized for different disc types. This ensures accurate data retrieval and better tracking for both standard CDs and high-density SACDs, resulting in a more precise and reliable playback experience.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.