MDA1000 vs Gold Note DS-1000 MKII
The DS-1000 MKII's max sample rate is 192 kHz against the MDA1000's 96 kHz, its signal-to-noise 125 dB against 110 dB, and its thd 0.001% against 0.002%. Both share bit depth (24-bit).
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DigitalDACsPre-AmplifiersDiscontinued
About the MDA1000
The McIntosh MDA1000 is a premium digital-to-analog converter designed to pair with the MCD1000 CD transport. It features eight 24-bit Burr-Brown DAC chips in a balanced/parallel configuration, upsampling all incoming digital signals to 768kHz/24-bit for enhanced resolution, S/N ratio, and smoother analog output. Supporting sampling frequencies from 32kHz to 96kHz, it offers seven digital inputs (3 coaxial RCA, 3 optical TOSLINK, 1 balanced AES/EBU XLR) and provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs with switchable fixed (2V) or variable (0-6V RMS) levels, including front-panel volume control with bypass. Notable for its exceptional build quality with machined aluminum panels, gold-plated jacks, and fully balanced analog output stage using 1% metal-film resistors and 5% polyfilm capacitors. Manufactured from 2004 to 2012, it received high praise including Stereophile Class A recommendation.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 24-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 96 kHz
- MQA Support
- No
- DAC Chip
- Burr-Brown
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.002%
- SNR
- 110 dB
- Output Voltage
- 6.0V RMS
- Max Output Voltage
- 6.0V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Inputs
- Coaxial RCA, Optical TOSLINK, AES/EBU XLR
- Analog Outputs
- Balanced XLR, Unbalanced RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 445 × 152 × 410 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 10.9 kg (24 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions