Description
Beautiful McIntosh dac. Full-warm and powerful. Very clear image. Uses an ESS Sabre converter in Advanced Quad Balanced mode. Can be used as a digital preamplifier with decent volume control.
This digital stereo preamplifier supports the latest digital audio formats, including DSD and DXD. The USB input accepts signals up to 32-bit/384kHz and supports DSD64, DSD128, DXD 352.8kHz and DXD 384kHz. In addition, there are two coaxial and two optical inputs that process signals up to 24-bit/192kHz. A unique DIN input allows connection to dedicated SACD/CD transports or players for pristine sound quality. The advanced Quad Balanced Digital-to-Analog converter ensures wide dynamic range and minimal distortion. With both balanced and unbalanced outputs, available in fixed and variable volume control, it offers flexibility in connecting different components. In addition, it functions as a high-quality headphone amplifier; easily connect digital sources and headphones for a personalized listening experience. The design includes a black glass front panel with lighting and signature control knobs, matching other components from the same manufacturer.
McIntosh Laboratory, founded in 1949 by Frank H. McIntosh and Gordon Gow, is located in Binghamton, New York. In 1965, McIntosh amplifiers were used during President Lyndon B. Johnson’s inauguration speech. In 1969, twenty McIntosh MC3500 tube amplifiers provided the sound for the Woodstock festival. In 1974, the Grateful Dead used 48 McIntosh MC2300 amplifiers for their “Wall of Sound” system. In 1990, McIntosh was acquired by Clarion, followed by a takeover by D&M Holdings in 2003. In 2022, the company was sold to a private equity firm. McIntosh is known for its black glass front panels and blue VU meters.