McIntosh MDA200: the new modular high-end DAC

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Published on 17 February 2025

Contents

A luxurious and elegant DAC
Removable DAC module
Extended connectivity

The McIntosh MDA200 DAC is a must-have in the electronics range from American manufacturer McIntosh. Designed to offer full support for digital sources, it is equally at home on a computer via USB or a TV via HDMI ARC. Its removable DAC module guarantees optimal adaptability for future technological advances.

🎶 See the McIntosh MDA200 DAC on Son-Vidéo.com

A luxurious and elegant DAC

True to the iconic aesthetics of the American brand, the McIntosh MDA200 DAC boasts a black glass front panel with backlit logo, chrome-rimmed control knobs and a blue monochrome display. Its dimensions (WxHxD) of 44 x 9.8 x 39cm and weight of 6.1kg bear attest to its robust construction. The distinctive anodized aluminum side protrusions suggest compatibility with a standard rack format.

*The McIntosh MDA200 is very elegant and luxurious, with its backlit glass front panel, metal-ringed control knobs and sturdy black metal chassis.*

Removable DAC module

At the heart of the McIntosh MDA200 is the McIntosh DA2 digital module, originally designed for the brand’s amplifiers. This modular approach offers several advantages, including the possibility of replacing the module for future upgrades, thus ensuring the unit’s longevity. This DAC incorporates an 8-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analog converter configured in Quad Balanced mode. This architecture ensures native compatibility with DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz via the USB input, while the coaxial and optical inputs can decode files up to 24-bit/192kHz.

The McIntosh MDA200 is based on the manufacturer’s DA2 module, with a modular architecture that guarantees high-quality digital-to-analog conversion while offering the possibility of upgrading to future standards.

Extended connectivity

The MDA200 offers full digital connectivity, including two optical inputs, two coaxial inputs, a USB-B input and an HDMI ARC port. It can be easily combined with a wide range of sources, such as CD players, network players, computers and televisions. A proprietary MCT port is also included for connection to a McIntosh CD transport. As for outputs, the McIntosh MDA200 offers unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR connectors. The level of the latter can be fixed or variable, allowing the McIntosh MDA200 to be used as a preamplifier and connected directly to a power amp.

With its multiple digital inputs – USB-B, HDMI ARC, MCT, optical and coaxial – the McIntosh MDA200 offers complete connectivity, enabling optimum compatibility with a wide range of high-resolution audio sources.

With full digital connectivity, flexible analog outputs and extensive control options, the McIntosh MDA200 offers a scalable solution for making the most of digital sources and digital files. It is now available to pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com, priced at €5,690.