McIntosh MCD12000 Reference SACD/CD Player

The McIntosh MCD12000 is McIntosh's reference-tier SACD/CD player — a two-in-one component that McIntosh accurately describes as a reference-level DAC that includes a reference-level SACD/CD player. Built on dual ESS SABRE PRO ES9038PRO 32-bit/8-channel DACs (one dedicated to each audio channel for true dual-mono conversion), the MCD12000 sits at the top of McIntosh's digital source lineup and shares its Hybrid Drive analog-output topology with the C12000 flagship preamplifier.

Hybrid Drive is the story that separates the MCD12000 from every other digital source in McIntosh's catalog. Each analog output stage is available in both a solid-state configuration (discrete balanced op-amp) and a vacuum-tube configuration (one 12AT7 and one 12AX7A per channel), selectable per source. A listener can route disc playback through the tubes and external streaming through solid-state — or the reverse — matching the analog character to the source material rather than committing the whole system to one topology. Both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs are provided in both configurations.

Seven digital inputs — two coax, two optical, one USB Type B (up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD512), one AES/EBU, and one MCT DIN — make the MCD12000 a full-featured reference DAC for external streamers, computer audio, and McIntosh MCT-series transports. Plays SACD (DSD64), CD, CD-R/RW, and DVD-R data discs with AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD, FLAC, MP3, WAV, and WMA file support. Roon Tested. Blue 60 dB output meters. A 75th Anniversary Edition (MCD12000-AN) shipped in 2024.

The MCD12000 is the natural digital source for the C12000 preamplifier or any McIntosh reference-tier system. Available at LMC — walk in during business hours or book ahead.