How Digital Is Supposed to Sound: McIntosh MCT500 SACD/CD Transport Features Premium Performance, MCT Output for High-Res Audio, USB Input, and Stellar Connectivity

Designed to be paired with an external component with digital inputs (like an external DAC), and tailored with an MCT output for matching with other McIntosh products with the company's proprietary MCT input to play back high-resolution audio, the McIntosh MCT500 SACD/CD transport offers state-of-the-art performance from nearly every kind of audio disc manufactured as well as up to DSD128 files on flash drives via its front-panel USB input. A quartet of balanced, coaxial, optical, and MCT outputs allow MCT500 to be effortlessly integrated into virtually any type of system. A twin-laser pickup, two-times reading speed, advanced digital servo, and a high-end die-cast-aluminum CD tray ensure optimal reading, tracking, accuracy, and quickness. MCT500 also boasts a linear power supply with a special R-core power transformer, as well as power control and data ports for the simplest-possible operation. 

Most importantly, the super-quiet and hyper-accurate MCT500 produces beguiling sound. You'll both discover and rediscover all the information on your discs. Everything from the thwack of a snare drum to the liberating crunch of a power chord to the brassy spunk of a saxophone will take on realistic proportions. You won't need to imagine what live music sounds like; you'll experience it. And you'll do it all in style, as MCT500 has McIntosh's signature looks, including an illuminated black glass faceplate and stainless-steel super-mirror-finish chassis. This is how digital was always supposed to sound and feel. 100% Music Direct Guaranteed.

Bountiful Playback Options and Proprietary MCT Connectivity for High-Resolution Audio
For SACD playback, MCT500's proprietary MCT output needs to be connected (via the included cable) to a McIntosh product with an MCT input. Such products include the D1100, C52, C2600, C47 and D150 preamplifiers, MA9000, MA8900, MA7200 or MA5300 integrated amplifiers, or MAC7200 receiver. When MCT500 is connected to one of these devices, 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 MCT500, including SACD, CD, CD-R/RW and DVD-R. In addition to store bought CDs and SACDs, 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. 

An Unparalleled Heritage of Prestigious Craftsmanship
McIntosh has been handmaking world-class audio equipment for seven decades. Each component is produced in the same upstate New York factory the company has called home for 60 years. Recognized and revered around the globe, McIntosh continues to set new standards for high-end performance, unstinting reliability, and product longevity. Its storied tradition of ingenuity, craftsmanship, pride, and service is shared by only the most iconic American brands. In an era where manufacturing shortcuts and outsourcing are the norm, McIntosh takes a no-compromise approach defined by hands-on workmanship, singular expertise, and an unabated passion for being the best in its field. These rarified characteristics set McIntosh apart. While most audio companies emulate the competition, McIntosh leads by living up to – and exceeding – its own benchmarks. That's the mark of a legend.

Handmade for Everyone That Appreciates the Superiority of Hands-On Artistry
McIntosh's handcrafted ethic predates by more than half a century the handcrafted movement currently re-defining the beer, food, furniture, jewelry, and soap industries. From patrons of farm-to-table restaurants to fans of limited-batch beer, people increasingly realize the importance and superiority of handcrafted goods in their everyday life. Whether it's the exacting detail afforded the PC boards, the meticulous attention paid to the hand-wound transformer coils, or the innovation behind patented Power Guard circuitry, McIntosh shares in the same belief. Rather than cut corners or adhere to mass-produced construction, McIntosh only puts its name on components that deliver paragon experiences by way of their unassailable artistry and precision-minded quality. While McIntosh products don't come cheap, they stand out – and stand the test of time – in a world flooded by homogeneity and inferiority.

Aspire to Own an American Icon
McIntosh amplifiers broadcast President Lyndon Johnson's inauguration speech and powered the original Woodstock festival. Nearly 29,000 watts of McIntosh power fueled the Grateful Dead's Wall of Sound, regarded by many as the finest-sounding concert system ever devised. McIntosh has assisted in the recording of some of history's most celebrated albums, including the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds. David Bowie collaborator/noted producer Tony Visconti and Dead guitarist/singer Bob Weir are among the countless McIntosh devotees. Thousands of older McIntosh components remain active in systems, having been built to last a lifetime. The history is clear: With McIntosh, you're not only considering today but planning for endless tomorrows. McIntosh is legacy audio you bequeath to future generations. The reason wish lists exists, McIntosh is the dream you aspire to own and, once you do, you cherish forever.