McIntosh MCD85 - 2-Channel SACD/CD Player with Digital Inputs

The McIntosh MCD85 is an SACD/CD player for playing purchased and self-created discs as well as digital music sources. In the system, it takes on the role of a high-quality digital source with fixed analog stereo outputs. It is suitable for music lovers who want to combine classic disc playback with modern digital connectivity and a distinctive McIntosh design.

What Makes the McIntosh MCD85 Special

• SACD, CD and Data Disc Playback – You can play purchased SACDs and CDs as well as self-created CD or DVD data discs through a central device.

• USB Audio for Digital Music Sources – The USB audio input allows the use of a computer or another digital storage device as a music source.

• Quad-Balanced DAC – The conversion of digital data into an analog stereo signal is performed by an 8-channel 32-bit PCM/DSD DAC, in which four DAC channels are assigned to the left channel and four to the right channel.

• Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Fixed-Level Outputs – The player can be connected to preamplifiers, power amplifiers and other components of a HiFi system.

• Integration into McIntosh Systems – Power Control and Data connections support integration into an existing McIntosh home audio system.

Disc Playback and Digital Sources

The MCD85 plays commercially available SACDs and CDs as well as music from self-created CD and DVD data discs. Data discs support AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD up to DSD128, FLAC, MP3, WAV and WMA, among others.

Through the USB audio input, the player can process digital music from a computer or another digital storage device. In addition, coaxial and optical digital inputs are available, so that the MCD85 can be used not only as a disc player, but also as a digital-to-analog converter for suitable external digital sources.

Digital-to-Analog Conversion and Signal Path

The digital-to-analog conversion is performed by a Quad-Balanced DAC with 8 channels and 32 bits for PCM and DSD signals. In this case, four DAC channels are used for the left and right audio channels respectively.

For transmission to the system, the MCD85 offers fixed analog stereo outputs in symmetrical and asymmetrical versions. Thanks to the symmetrical outputs, the player can also be placed closer to the listening position if longer symmetrical cables are to be routed to the system.

Drive and Disc Handling

The MCD85 reads discs at double speed and stores the data in a buffer memory. This supports error correction and track following during playback.

The disc tray is designed as a sturdy die-cast tray and features a specially adapted, beveled front. The optical drive operates with a twin-laser reader and a single objective lens; the two laser units use different wavelengths for SACD and CD playback.

Design and System Integration

The McIntosh MCD85 features an open chassis design with polished surfaces on the front, top and back. Die-cast aluminum nameplates on the sides, a black glass front with direct LED backlighting, silver decorative elements, an illuminated logo and rotary knobs define the look.

The design is particularly suitable for McIntosh components with a similar retro look, such as the MC275, MC1502, MA252, MA352, MC830 and C8. At the same time, the MCD85 is not limited to these models, as it brings the necessary connections and McIntosh design features for integration into a McIntosh home audio system.

Who and for what purposes is the McIntosh MCD85 suitable?

The McIntosh MCD85 is suitable for music lovers who want to integrate SACDs, CDs and digital music files into their system via a high-quality stereo source device. It is suitable for systems with a preamplifier, power amplifier or other home audio components that receive fixed analog stereo signals.

The MCD85 is particularly useful when, in addition to disc playback, digital sources via USB, coaxial or optical inputs are also to be used. Thanks to its distinctive open chassis design, it is also suitable for systems where the device is to be placed visibly.

For what is the McIntosh MCD85 less suitable?

The MCD85 is less suitable if variable analog outputs, a headphone output, digital outputs, RS232 control or multi-channel output are required.

Conclusion

The McIntosh MCD85 is an SACD/CD player and digital source for demanding stereo systems. It combines disc playback, digital inputs, fixed analog stereo outputs and a distinctive McIntosh design in one device.

Anyone who requires variable outputs, a headphone connection or digital outputs should consider the stated limitations before purchase.