McIntosh
McIntosh MCD500 CD/SACD Player
Best high-end player for audiophiles seeking reference-grade digital sound quality.
Experience unparalleled digital audio with the McIntosh MCD500 CD/SACD Player. This high-fidelity player also functions as a reference-level Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), ensuring exceptional clarity and detail. It is meticulously crafted to enhance your audio experience, reproducing every nuance of your SACDs and CDs with remarkable fidelity. Its robust construction and elegant design make it a sophisticated addition to any high-end audio system, embodying McIntosh's legacy of audio excellence and innovation for an immersive music experience.
$3000.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
14
/ 239
#14 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
-35%
Below average
Type
SACD/CD Player
/ SACD/CD Player
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising sonic clarity and dynamic range
- Collectors valuing timeless design and premium build quality
- System builders needing a high-end DAC for digital components
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners prioritizing value over luxury performance
- Modern streamers requiring network connectivity or USB computer integration
- Users with limited rack space or lightweight shelving units
Performance breakdown
Digital Conversion Precision
ESS SABRE PRO architecture delivers industry-leading clarity and sonic transparency.
Build Integrity
Substantial fifty-pound chassis ensures vibration-free playback and long-term mechanical stability.
Format Versatility
Handles everything from legacy CDs to high-resolution DSD files with ease.
Connectivity Depth
Comprehensive digital inputs allow it to serve as a high-end DAC.
Disc Tracking Accuracy
Precision transport mechanism extracts every detail from your physical media collection.
Aesthetic Presence
Iconic glass faceplate design remains the gold standard for luxury audio.
Key Specs
Type
SACD/CD Player
DAC Type
ESS SABRE PRO 32-bit/8-channel
Supported Media
SACD, CD, CD-R/RW
Playback Formats
AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD, FLAC, MP3, WAV, WMA
USB Sample Rate
Up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD512, DXD384kHz
Coaxial/Optical Sample Rate
Up to 24-bit/192kHz
Disc Changer Capacity
1
USB Playback
Yes
Features
- Reference-level SACD/CD player and DAC
- High-resolution audio support
- Versatile connectivity options
- Precision disc playback
- Classic McIntosh design aesthetic
- Enhanced audio reproduction
- User-friendly operation
- Durable construction
What customers say
Owners overwhelmingly praise the McIntosh MCD500 for its exceptional sound quality, frequently describing the audio as liquid, detailed, and possessing remarkable depth, especially with SACDs. The player consistently delivers a wide, stable soundstage. Beyond performance, the legendary McIntosh build quality is a key highlight. Customers appreciate the robust construction and the iconic aesthetic, viewing the unit as a lasting heirloom piece. While the initial cost is high, the reliability and uncompromising listening experience solidify its value as a long term investment in high fidelity.
Know before you buy
Yes, the MCD500 features a reference-level ESS SABRE PRO DAC. You can utilize its digital inputs to process audio from external sources like streamers or computers, benefiting from its high-resolution 32-bit/384kHz processing.
The USB input supports a wide range of formats including DSD512, DXD384kHz, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, and WAV. This allows you to play high-fidelity digital files directly from your computer with exceptional clarity.
The MCD500 is designed for high-fidelity stereo playback. It is optimized to extract the maximum detail from the two-channel layer of SACDs and standard CDs.
The unit is quite substantial, weighing 50 lbs and measuring 17-1/2" wide by 7-5/8" high by 18" deep. Ensure your shelf is sturdy enough to support the weight and deep enough to accommodate the chassis and necessary cable clearance.
Yes, the player is fully compatible with CD-R and CD-RW discs, allowing you to play your own custom compilations alongside your standard commercial SACD and CD collection.
Yes, a remote control is included with the MCD500. It provides full control over playback functions and input selection, maintaining the user-friendly experience expected from a premium component.
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$3000