McIntosh DA2 DAC Module Upgrade Made Available
McIntosh has announced that its DA2 Digital Audio Module Upgrade Kit is now available to update your amplifier or receiver.
StereoNET first mentioned the DA2 in our coverage of the McIntosh C35 pre-amplifier, and now it can be fitted to a raft of other components from the Binghamton brand.
If you have a McIntosh component fitted with the DA1, such as the MA9000, MA8900, MA7200 and MA5300 integrated amps, MAC7200 receiver or the C49 pre-amp, the DA2 Digital Audio Module can be slotted in to replace it by your dealer.
What is the DA2 Module?
The DA2 is the company's most potent high-resolution digital audio processor to date. As such it offers an expanded set of capabilities including an audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC), that provides two-way communication between the DA2-equipped McIntosh unit and the TV, allowing for volume control and lip-syncing functions, too.
More importantly, the DA2's USB input can support native playback of up to DSD512 (plus DXD up to 384kHz), surpassing the DSD256 limit of the DA1. This new capability is thanks to the next-generation, Quad Balanced, eight-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) that drives the DA2.
With the module, you get two coaxial, two optical, one USB and a proprietary MCT input - just like the DA1 offered. The coaxial and optical inputs can decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz for high-resolution audio playback. When paired with one of McIntosh's MCT SACD/CD transports, that MCT input offers a secure, custom DSD connection for playback of the high-definition audio encoded on SACDs.
Additionally, Dolby and DTS multichannel formats are also supported and will be perfectly converted to two-channel audio for stereo playback. When CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) communication is enabled in both the DA2-equipped unit and TV, the TV remote can control the power and volume of the connected McIntosh unit.
Pricing and availability
Orders for the £1,295 DA2 Digital Audio Module Upgrade Kit can now be placed with Authorised McIntosh dealers with shipping expected to begin in December.
For more information, head on over to McIntosh.
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. Jay heads up StereoNET as Editor for the United Kingdom and Europe regions. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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