McIntosh MCT500 Manual
PDF manual · 28 Pages
English
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Frequently Asked Questions
The MCT500 plays standard Redbook CDs and Super Audio CDs (SACD). It also supports data discs and USB flash drives containing WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, MP3 and WMA files, with high‑resolution playback up to DSD128 and PCM up to 192 kHz (output dependent).
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To obtain native SACD/DSD output, connect the MCT500 to a compatible McIntosh preamplifier or integrated amplifier using the supplied Digital MCT cable. The MCT connector carries SACD DSD streams while XLR/optical/coaxial outputs provide PCM only.
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Yes. The front‑panel USB port accepts flash drives and supports the same formats as data discs, including WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, MP3 and WMA. It displays file metadata, sampling frequency and folder/track information on the front display.
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Outputs include Digital MCT (for McIntosh DSD/PCM), XLR (AES/EBU balanced PCM), coaxial (S/PDIF PCM) and optical (TOSLINK PCM). Use Digital MCT for SACD/DSD to compatible McIntosh gear; XLR/coax/optical for high‑res PCM to external DACs or preamps.
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Reset the main microprocessor by holding STANDBY/ON and DISC LAYER until the standby LED goes off, then press STANDBY/ON to restart. For a transport microprocessor reset, power off, hold NEXT and STOP while restoring power until the display shows “RESET.”
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Yes. The unit has an Auto Off (Auto STBY) feature that defaults to On and places the transport into standby after about 30 minutes without a digital audio signal. This can be toggled on or off via the remote power button.
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Allow at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) above and below, and 1 inch (2.5 cm) each side for airflow. Provide 17 inches (43.2 cm) depth behind the front panel and 1-1/8 inch (2.9 cm) clearance for knobs. Ensure cutouts for ventilation when installing in cabinetry.
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Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Twin laser pickup reads SACD and CD layers through a single lens for versatile disc compatibility.
- Multiple digital outputs (Digital MCT, XLR, coaxial, optical) support native DSD and high‑res PCM paths.
- Front USB port and full metadata display support playback of data discs and USB flash drives.
- Robust mechanical transport with die‑cast tray and advanced servo for quiet, accurate disc reading.
- Premium McIntosh build and aesthetics: illuminated glass front panel and super‑mirror stainless chassis.
Disadvantages
- Proprietary Digital MCT cable required for full SACD/DSD output to McIntosh components; replacements must be ordered.
- Some high‑resolution PCM/DSD playback modes require specific outputs (XLR or MCT) to access full sample rates.
- Unit is relatively large and heavy—requires adequate shelf or custom cabinet space and ventilation.
- Limited to USB flash drives (no native network streaming or onboard DAC) — needs external DAC/preamp for analog output.
- Older design lacks some modern conveniences like Bluetooth or integrated streaming services.
Product Description
McIntosh MCT500 — High‑Fidelity SACD/CD Transport
The McIntosh MCT500 is a premium SACD/CD transport engineered for discerning listeners who demand accurate, detailed digital playback. Built with a twin‑laser pickup and advanced mechanical transport, the MCT500 reads both SACD and CD formats with improved tracking and error correction, ensuring reliable disc handling and long‑term performance. Its die‑cast tray and refined digital servo work together for quieter, faster operation and precise data retrieval.
Beyond core transport mechanics, the MCT500 offers versatile digital output options: balanced XLR (AES/EBU), coaxial, optical (TOSLINK), and McIntosh’s proprietary Digital MCT connector for the purest signal path to compatible McIntosh preamplifiers and integrated amplifiers. The Digital MCT output supports PCM and native SACD/DSD streams when paired with compatible McIntosh components, while XLR/optical/coax provide high‑resolution PCM up to 192 kHz for wide compatibility.
Convenience features include front‑panel USB playback for flash drives, a rich front display that shows track info, sampling rates and file metadata, and a full‑function remote control that handles SACD, CD, data discs and USB playback. The MCT500 supports common file formats (WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, MP3, WMA) and high‑resolution data up to DSD128 and PCM 192 kHz/24‑bit (depending on output used). Additional features include power‑control chaining, IR/data ports for external control, selectable display brightness, programmable and random playback modes, and an Auto‑Standby power saving feature.
Aesthetically, the MCT500 continues McIntosh tradition with an illuminated glass front panel and stainless steel super‑mirror finish chassis, complemented by long‑life LED illumination to keep its appearance pristine. The unit uses a robust switching power supply with multiple regulators for stable, low‑noise operation and includes detailed installation dimensions and guidance for free‑standing or custom cabinet mounting.
Whether integrated into a McIntosh system via the Digital MCT link or used with other high‑end components via XLR/optical/coax, the MCT500 is designed to deliver reliable, musical digital reproduction with professional‑grade connectivity and build quality.
Notes
- Twin laser pickup reads both SACD and CD layers through one lens assembly.
- Use the supplied McIntosh Digital MCT cable for SACD DSD output to compatible McIntosh preamps.
- USB front panel supports flash drives with the same sample rates and formats as discs.
- Follow ventilation and installation clearances to ensure reliable operation.
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