McIntosh just announced the MDA200 D/A Converter, allowing audiophiles to add premium digital music capabilities to an analog audio system. At the heart of the MDA200 is the McIntosh DA2 Digital Audio Module featured in the award-winning MA12000 Integrated Amplifier and C2700and C53 Preamplifiers, now offered as a standalone D/A converter.
The DA2 in the MDA200 is powered by a Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This audiophile-grade DAC features enhanced dynamic range and improved total harmonic distortion. The DA2 supports high resolution digital audio playback, as the USB input supports native playback of up to DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while the coax and optical inputs can decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz. The MDA200 includes (7) digital audio inputs: 2 coaxial, 2 optical, 1 USB, 1 MCT (to pair with the brand’s MCT series of SACD/CD Transports), and 1 audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) connection.
The product further serves as an upgrade to replace older D/A converters that may now be obsolete and outdated. Keeping in mind that digital music formats and technologies change and improve over time, the DA2 is designed with the ability to be replaced by a newer digital audio module in the future – positioning the MDA200 as a timeless investment and addition to a home audio system for years to come.
Features of The McIntosh MDA200 Digital To Analog Converter
- HDMI (ARC) input to enhance television and film experience
- Roon Tested designation from Roon Labs
- Balanced and unbalanced analog outputs for preamplifier or integrated amplifier connection
- McIntosh’s iconic design elements including illuminated logo, rotary control knobs, custom machined aluminum end caps and black glass faceplate
The MDA200 will be available via US Authorized McIntosh Dealers beginning November 2022 with the rest of the world soon after, with an MSRP of $4,000 US dollars.
The Audiophile History of McIntosh
McIntosh Laboratory stands as a towering figure in the realm of high-fidelity audio, renowned for its distinctive blue meters, robust construction, and unparalleled sound quality. Since its inception in 1949, McIntosh has not only set benchmarks in audio engineering but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the auditory experiences of music enthusiasts worldwide.
Founding and Early Innovations
The journey of McIntosh began when Frank H. McIntosh, an engineer with a vision for superior audio amplification, collaborated with Gordon Gow to establish the company. Their mission was clear: to create audio equipment that delivered unmatched fidelity and reliability. This commitment led to the development of the Unity Coupled Circuit, a groundbreaking amplifier design that allowed tube amplifiers to produce higher power with significantly reduced distortion. This innovation not only set McIntosh apart from its competitors but also laid the foundation for the company’s enduring reputation in the audio industry.
In 1951, seeking a conducive environment for growth and innovation, McIntosh relocated its operations to Binghamton, New York. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter, with the company introducing products that would become legendary among audiophiles. One such milestone was in 1965 when McIntosh amplifiers powered President Lyndon B. Johnson’s inauguration speech, showcasing the brand’s reliability on a national stage. The late 1960s also saw McIntosh amplifiers being used at the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969, further cementing their place in music history.
The Grateful Dead’s “Wall of Sound”
A defining moment in McIntosh’s history was its collaboration with the Grateful Dead during their 1974 tour. The band aimed to revolutionize live concert sound, aspiring to deliver unparalleled audio clarity and power to their audiences.This ambition culminated in the creation of the “Wall of Sound,” an unprecedented sound reinforcement system designed specifically for the Grateful Dead’s live performances. This colossal setup utilized forty-eight McIntosh MC2300 amplifiers, collectively delivering 28,800 watts of continuous power. The amplifiers powered over 600 speakers, resulting in a sound system that was over 100 feet wide and three stories tall. This innovative design aimed to provide a distortion-free and immersive auditory experience, setting new standards for live sound engineering.
The “Wall of Sound” was not just about sheer power; it was a marvel of engineering designed to address common issues in live performances. Each instrument had its dedicated channel and speaker system, effectively eliminating intermodulation distortion and ensuring that the audience heard each musical element with pristine clarity. Despite its logistical challenges, including its massive size and complexity, the “Wall of Sound” left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing concert sound design for decades to come.
Evolution and Ownership Transitions
Throughout its history, McIntosh has undergone several ownership changes, each contributing to its evolution while preserving its core values. In 1990, the company was acquired by Clarion, a Japanese manufacturer specializing in car audio systems. This acquisition led to McIntosh’s expansion into automotive audio, integrating its high-fidelity sound systems into luxury vehicles and introducing car speakers in 1994.
In 2003, D&M Holdings, another Japanese firm known for owning audio brands like Denon and Marantz, took ownership of McIntosh. During this period, McIntosh continued to operate with a degree of independence, maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. The year 2012 marked another significant transition when Fine Sounds SpA, an Italian company, acquired McIntosh. This acquisition brought McIntosh into a family of high-end audio brands, including Sonus Faber and Audio Research, fostering collaborations and expanding its global footprint.
A management buyout in 2014 led to the rebranding of Fine Sounds SpA to McIntosh Group, emphasizing the prominence of the McIntosh brand within the conglomerate. In June 2022, Highlander Partners, a Dallas-based private investment firm, acquired McIntosh Group, signaling a new phase of strategic growth. The most recent development came in November 2024, when Bose Corporation announced its acquisition of McIntosh Group, aiming to combine their expertise to push the boundaries of audio innovation.
Legacy and Continued Innovation
Despite these transitions, McIntosh has steadfastly upheld its dedication to crafting high-quality audio equipment. The company’s products, known for their distinctive black glass front panels, iconic blue watt meters, and meticulous craftsmanship, continue to be designed and handcrafted in their Binghamton facility. This unwavering commitment to excellence has ensured that McIntosh remains a revered name among audiophiles and music enthusiasts.
In recent years, McIntosh has continued to honor its rich heritage while embracing modern collaborations. In 2023, McIntosh celebrated its enduring relationship with the Grateful Dead by powering intermissions during Dead & Co’s “The Final Tour” with a custom audio setup, demonstrating the brand’s ongoing influence in live music experiences.Additionally, McIntosh has expanded its product offerings to include advanced home theater systems, wireless speakers, and streaming audio solutions, seamlessly blending classic design with contemporary technology.
