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  1. #1
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    MDA1000 Purchased

    Dan...


    I received the MDA1000 today in mint condition. Both the MDA1000, remote, power cord and owners manual appear used. I am suspicious that the item was even registered with McIntosh. I am going to inquire with Chuck H. to find out.


    MDA1000 serial is: VF1480 and manufactured December 2009.


    I integrated the DAC into my system already and am startled to hear a vast difference between the MDA1000 versus my MCD1100 [used as a DAC].


    I value the many source inputs and ease of navigation through the various source types. Of course, The build quality is exceptional just like my C1000 trio, something that McIntosh can no longer boast with their current new product line up.

  2. #2

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Which sounds better to you? MDA1000 or MCD1100?


    Speakeasy

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Steve View Post
    Which sounds better to you? MDA1000 or MCD1100?
    Steve...

    I have been playing a series of David Bowie tunes via the MB100 [Blackstar particularly] and I am astonished at the difference between in clarity, punch, presence and the rich full bodied sound -- the soundstage has opened up perhaps.

    For me...the MDA1000 wins hands down. I will not return to the MCD1100 as a DAC.

    Of note, I read through the owners manual and the manufacturing of the unit is similar to the C1000 trio. I'm impressed and darn kewl.

    Dare I say, I now want the MCD1000 now.

  4. #4

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    I'd love to own a MDA1000 but dare say a 240v version would be almost impossible to find.

    Congrats. Makes a perfectly matched addition to your C1000 trio.


    Speakeasy

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Steve View Post
    I'd love to own a MDA1000 but dare say a 240v version would be almost impossible to find.

    Congrats. Makes a perfectly matched addition to your C1000 trio.
    Steve...

    I have been searching for a 2009 model since the purchase of my C1000 trio. I checked every single day: AudioGon, Audio Forums, USA Audio Mart, eBay, Audio Classics and many more. When I found this, I was doubtful it was real. I was prepared to file a claim with my Visa for possible fraud. But the guy, and audio retailer on his own, was true to his word. With the exception of Audio Classics, I have never purchased something in that price category from any of the venues I mentioned. In fact, I have never purchased anything from AudioGon or USA Audio Mart.

    I will keep a look out for you. I don't mind. I love the chase.


    David

  6. #6
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Congratulations David. Great score!
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

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  7. #7
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Dan...


    I received the MDA1000 today in mint condition. Both the MDA1000, remote, power cord and owners manual appear used. I am suspicious that the item was even registered with McIntosh. I am going to inquire with Chuck H. to find out.


    MDA1000 serial is: VF1480 and manufactured December 2009.


    I integrated the DAC into my system already and am startled to hear a vast difference between the MDA1000 versus my MCD1100 [used as a DAC].


    I value the many source inputs and ease of navigation through the various source types. Of course, The build quality is exceptional just like my C1000 trio, something that McIntosh can no longer boast with their current new product line up.
    David.......Holy mackerel, she's a beauty. I hope you meant to say it appears unused, because it looks practically new to me. I am truly happy for you.

    I figure it is just a matter of time before you locate and purchase the MCD1000. It is the MDA1000's mate and will round out your McIntosh 1000 series stack perfectly.


    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
    Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario

    LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable,
    Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113

    VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A

  8. #8
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    David. What a beauty. Maybe time to show us full stack ?


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  9. #9
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    MDA1000 Purchased

    Now that's a good looking DAC! Congrats David. Is there any reason why these 10 year old Mc DAC's are so highly sought after vs the newer ones? Is there a particular chip Mc used? Basically, why is it so highly sought after?

    You do realize a 10 year old DAC being highly sought after throws my whole "DAC of the month club" out of whack. MDA1000 Purchased
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  10. #10
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Steve View Post
    I'd love to own a MDA1000 but dare say a 240v version would be almost impossible to find.

    Congrats. Makes a perfectly matched addition to your C1000 trio.
    Hi Steve,
    I will never sell my MDA1000 but you know it is very easy to convert internally a 110V unit to 240.
    Shindo, Nagra, Electrocompaniet, Harbeth, AMR, Mc Intosh, Auditorium 23, Rega, DeVore, JC Verdier, WireWorld, Kimber

  11. #11
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    David........Congrats on being in the MDA1K club! Since I don't spin much disc anymore....a MCD1K is not in my sights.

    You probably know this but Terry D has one for sale on his site.

    http://www.mcintoshaudio.com/

    McIntosh - PMC - Aurender - Kimber Kable - WW - Core Audio Designs

  12. #12
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Lavon.......Great find. Way to go.
    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
    Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario

    LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable,
    Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113

    VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A

  13. #13
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by 'cisco View Post
    David........Congrats on being in the MDA1K club! Since I don't spin much disc anymore....a MCD1K is not in my sights.


    You probably know this but Terry D has one for sale on his site.


    http://www.mcintoshaudio.com/


    Hey Cisco, I noticed the listing a bit ago. The price is extraordinary set at $5500.

    Thanks for the warm welcome to the MDA1K club. I'm loving it. I am using one of each of the source inputs.

    #########
    As a compliment to the MDA1000, I am considering per @Elberoth [the following captured under the WTB: MDA1000]


    "For starters - it lacks the USB input and it is limited to 176khz sampling rate. But if you get a quality USB to SPDIF converter like the Berkeley Alpha USB, the DAC more than holds itself compared to any current offerings in the $5-7k range."

    The Price point for the USB compliment stands at around $1,895.00 and The Absolute sound did a hefty review. The following is the article concluding comments:

    "Conclusion
    The Berkeley Audio Design Alpha USB is a breakthrough product that not only overcomes the limitations of the USB interface, but provides a state-of-the-art method of getting audio out of a computer. Moreover, the Alpha USB makes this reference-quality performance available to non-technical music lovers who have a Macintosh and a DAC.


    Though the Alpha USB’s $1895 price is considerably more than that of other USB converters, the Alpha is a bargain when you consider that it provides a simple, foolproof path for creating a state-of-the-art music server. Moreover, the entire digital front end of the iMac, Alpha USB, Alpha DAC, Pure Music software, and Straightwire digital interconnects costs about $8300. That’s not chump change by any measure, but it’s eminently reasonable for a music server and a DAC that deliver this level of performance. I listened to this digital front end as a source for electronics and loudspeakers that together cost more than $400k, yet never felt that the digital source was the weak link in the chain. In fact, I had the opposite reaction: This source allowed me to hear these ultra-exotic electronics and loudspeakers at their best.


    One day computer-based music systems will be simple to set up, foolproof, ubiquitous, and uncompromised in sound quality. The Berkeley Alpha USB represents a giant leap forward in realizing this goal."

    Source Online Article

    #########

    Though the unit at a technical specification level lacks USB and is limited to 176khz sampling rate, I am blown away with the MDA performance. In this case, I am delighted I am not clever enough to perceive the limits. In my case, I embrace my ignorance is bliss. After having stated my above comment...my bliss is a little compromised. I just may have to buy the Alpha DAC or one like it. Hmmmm.

  14. #14
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    David, as I see it, you have a few options to maximize the performance of the MDA1000:

    1. Berkeley Alpha USB - then you can use whatever USB based source you want, including something like the N100H
    2. Lumin U1 (use the AES/EBU)
    3. Aurender N10 (use the AES/EBU)

    I have a Berkeley Alpha USB I would be happy to send you to try if you want. It's quite a nice piece. Definitely does what everyone says.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  15. #15
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    David.......An additional option that will allow USB connectivity to the MDA1000 is the Bryston BUC-1. Pete (Vintage Pete) uses the BUC-1 with his MDA1000 to connect his laptop loaded with high-res music. It sounds fabulous. It is available in black or silver.

    http://bryston.com/products/digital_audio/BUC-1.html


    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
    Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario

    LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable,
    Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113

    VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    David, as I see it, you have a few options to maximize the performance of the MDA1000:

    1. Berkeley Alpha USB - then you can use whatever USB based source you want, including something like the N100H
    2. Lumin U1 (use the AES/EBU)
    3. Aurender N10 (use the AES/EBU)

    I have a Berkeley Alpha USB I would be happy to send you to try if you want. It's quite a nice piece. Definitely does what everyone says.
    Hey Mr. Mike!

    The following options would work for me as I see it [still exploring]:

    1. The Surender UC100 USB Audio 2.0 to SPDIF (COAX) converter. I could at long last do a side by side comparison between the MB100 and the N100H.
    2. Berkeley Alpha USB

    As far as I can tell, the AES/EBU is not an option. See the owners manual photo embedded here.

  17. #17
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Hey Mr. Mike!

    The following options would work for me as I see it [still exploring]:

    1. The Surender UC100 USB Audio 2.0 to SPDIF (COAX) converter. I could at long last do a side by side comparison between the MB100 and the N100H.
    2. Berkeley Alpha USB

    As far as I can tell, the AES/EBU is not an option. See the owners manual photo embedded here.
    That's an interesting question. I can't imagine the AES/EBU would not work. You may want to call McIntosh.

    Yes, I forgot about the Aurender UC100 as well. Good choice too.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Double-D View Post
    David.......An additional option that will allow USB connectivity to the MDA1000 is the Bryston BUC-1. Pete (Vintage Pete) uses the BUC-1 with his MDA1000 to connect his laptop loaded with high-res music. It sounds fabulous. It is available in black or silver.

    http://bryston.com/products/digital_audio/BUC-1.html



    Pete is no fool. I just read a terrific review and the price is logical and rational for me: $799. Home Theater HiFi did a hefty review. The following is the article concluding comments:

    Conclusions about the BUC-1 USB Converter


    The Bryston BUC-1 is a very useful device for those of you who have purchased expensive outboard DACs years ago, and which do not have asynchronous USB inputs. You may also have a nice receiver for which you want to add a USB input so you can play music from your computer. It does the job extremely well, is superbly built, and priced right.

    Source Online Article

    Dan...

    I do like to spend money but when I do, I growl and wail like a banshee. I don't like to spend just for the sake of spending. It must make sense to me. Would you mind looping back to Pete and let me know the logic of why he liked the Bryston over all other options/brands. Without a doubt, he gave serious pause to the decision.

  19. #19
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    An other option for a SPDIF - USB converter is the Musical Fidelity V LINK 192. Cheap ( 250 euros) ( actually cheaper than my WW USB PLATINUM cable ! ) and it has a coax and an AES output.
    Shindo, Nagra, Electrocompaniet, Harbeth, AMR, Mc Intosh, Auditorium 23, Rega, DeVore, JC Verdier, WireWorld, Kimber

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Is there any reason why these 10 year old Mc DAC's are so highly sought after vs the newer ones? Is there a particular chip Mc used? Basically, why is it so highly sought after?MDA1000 Purchased

    Mike...

    This is a question for Dan and Vintage Pete. Like you, I am equally curious. Dan...can you chime in?

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    That's an interesting question. I can't imagine the AES/EBU would not work. You may want to call McIntosh.

    Yes, I forgot about the Aurender UC100 as well. Good choice too.
    My Bad..There is an XLR and I know this but as I understand it. The single XLR source input is per the manual:

    ***Balanced DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT re-ceives digital audio signals from the McIntosh MCD1000 CD Transport***

    I do not know if this port is flexible with other non-McIntosh branded devices. Perhaps worthwhile call to McIntosh or Dan may chime in.

  22. #22
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    My Bad..There is an XLR and I know this but as I understand it. The single XLR source input is per the manual:

    ***Balanced DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT re-ceives digital audio signals from the McIntosh MCD1000 CD Transport***

    I do not know if this port is flexible with other non-McIntosh branded devices. Perhaps worthwhile call to McIntosh or Dan may chime in.
    Send me the MDA1000 (and a pair of 2301's required for this test) and I will let you know if it works or not.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  23. #23
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    My Bad..There is an XLR and I know this but as I understand it. The single XLR source input is per the manual:

    ***Balanced DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT re-ceives digital audio signals from the McIntosh MCD1000 CD Transport***

    I do not know if this port is flexible with other non-McIntosh branded devices. Perhaps worthwhile call to McIntosh or Dan may chime in.
    The AES EBU input on the MDA 1000 will work with any AES EBU digital output of any audio gear.
    Shindo, Nagra, Electrocompaniet, Harbeth, AMR, Mc Intosh, Auditorium 23, Rega, DeVore, JC Verdier, WireWorld, Kimber

  24. #24
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Jerome W View Post
    The AES EBU input on the MDA 1000 will work with any AES EBU digital output of any audio gear.
    Nice! Aurender N10 or Lumin U1 sounds they would do the job nicely! AES/EBU to AES/EBU.

    http://www.luminmusic.com/lumin-u1.html
    http://www.aurender.com/page/n10
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Send me the MDA1000 (and a pair of 2301's required for this test) and I will let you know if it works or not.

    You are hilarious but if I really wanted to test it out, I would without question trust you to do this all for me!

    David

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Jerome W View Post
    The AES EBU input on the MDA 1000 will work with any AES EBU digital output of any audio gear.
    Jerome. There is only one XLR slot. Lets say I want to use my MCD1100 XLRs. The MCD1100 has both a Right and Left XLR, not a single like the MCD1000.

    I'm guessing there is a cable that I can use that has on one end two XLRs and then a single ended doojigger?

    But, then. I can just use either COAX or Optical and skip that all together.


    David

  27. #27
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Jerome. There is only one XLR slot. Lets say I want to use my MCD1100 XLRs. The MCD1100 has both a Right and Left XLR, not a single like the MCD1000.

    I'm guessing there is a cable that I can use that has on one end two XLRs and then a single ended doojigger?

    But, then. I can just use either COAX or Optical and skip that all together.


    David
    David the single XLR is digital, called AES/EBU. The dual XLR's are analog and they are the XLR/balanced connectors.

    Think of the single one like a big SPIDF!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    David the single XLR is digital, called AES/EBU. The dual XLR's are analog and they are the XLR/balanced connectors.

    Think of the single one like a big SPIDF!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

    Oh wow. Shucks. I always that AES/EBU was XLR. Dear gawd. Never mind. Ugh!

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Mike,

    I have that single doojigger port on the back of my MCD1100 and above it - it says, XLR. Ok. I accept it even though I don't entirely understand but kewl anyways. So...I just need to order a AES/EBU cable. Alright. Easy enough.

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Mike,

    I have that single doojigger port on the back of my MCD1100 and above it - it says, XLR. Ok. I accept it even though I don't entirely understand but kewl anyways. So...I just need to order a AES/EBU cable. Alright. Easy enough.
    Yes David. Just order a good quality AES/EBU cable and go from your MCD1100 (which act as a transport with the digital out) to the digital input of your MDA1100.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Mike...

    Which is the superior transport of audio data: COAX or AES/EBU


    David

  32. #32

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Jerome W View Post
    Hi Steve,
    I will never sell my MDA1000 but you know it is very easy to convert internally a 110V unit to 240.
    Hi Jerome, if it is just a matter of shifting a jumper, then I should be on the hunt?!

    There were lots for sale when the MCD1100 came out, now everyone is hanging onto them.


    Speakeasy

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Steve View Post
    Hi Jerome, if it is just a matter of shifting a jumper, then I should be on the hunt?!

    There were lots for sale when the MCD1100 came out, now everyone is hanging onto them.
    Steve.......The McIntosh MDA1000 uses a multi-tap power transformer. There is a cable harness plug that you simply move from jumper J10 (120 volts) to jumper J12 (240 volts). That's all there is to it.
    Dan

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Mike...

    This is a question for Dan and Vintage Pete. Like you, I am equally curious. Dan...can you chime in?
    I am not Dan neither Pete but I own the MDA1000 since 2007 and I heard the MCD1100.
    To my ears the MDA1000 is a more musical dac. It sounds more "analog". Isn't that the aim of any dac ? To sound the more "analog" possible ?
    Imho McIntosh made a mistake when they switched to Sabre chips.
    Shindo, Nagra, Electrocompaniet, Harbeth, AMR, Mc Intosh, Auditorium 23, Rega, DeVore, JC Verdier, WireWorld, Kimber

  35. #35
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by golucid View Post
    mike...

    Which is the superior transport of audio data: Coax or aes/ebu


    david
    aes/ebu.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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    Phone: 941-932-0282
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    aes/ebu.
    Why is AES/EBU superior over the other source input types?

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Mike...

    Which is the superior transport of audio data: COAX or AES/EBU
    David.......There are plenty of audio enthusiasts that will argue the topic of AES/EBU (Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcasting Union) versus S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) coaxial interconnects, each claiming one standard is superior sounding over the other. The two digital interfaces are not identical when transmitting bits and each requires a separate and specific decoding interface. Conversion between these interfaces must be handled electronically, not by adapting one connector to another.

    The AES/EBU cable is a 110 ohm differential two channel balanced digital interconnect. The original AES/EBU specification required transformer coupling. There was a newer standard developed 1992 and revised in 2001 called AES3 that does not require transformer coupling. The majority of AES/EBU cables are manufactured as 110 ohm cables with XLR connectors and the AES/EBU standard uses a higher signal voltage than coaxial cable.

    The S/PDIF cable is a 75 ohm coaxial interconnect that uses RCA connectors. Unfortunately not all digital coaxial cables are manufactured as true 75 ohm cables and this may or may not be the root of the perceived sound differences some are reporting. For as many people who say there is a sonic difference between AES/EBU and S/PDIF, there are an equal number of people who claim there is no sonic difference. It may be of benefit to audition both types of digital interconnects and let your ears decide. When selecting a coaxial cable for S/PDIF application be certain it is a true 75 ohm cable to ensure the proper interface between connected components.

    In my opinion, if I were connecting a McIntosh MCD1000 to a MDA1000 DAC, my choice would be to use a high quality balanced AES/EBU interconnect. I prefer the XLR connectors over RCA connectors.
    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Great explanation there Dan!!
    McIntosh - PMC - Aurender - Kimber Kable - WW - Core Audio Designs

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Double-D View Post
    In my opinion, if I were connecting a McIntosh MCD1000 to a MDA1000 DAC, my choice would be to use a high quality balanced AES/EBU interconnect.
    Dan...

    Thank you for chiming in. I was waiting for the grand finale conclusion and thank you for making the choice for me. I will buy the AES/EBU interconnect.

    My next question for you Dan...what would be your choice of cable? Monoprice, Bluejeans, Wireworld, Audioquest, etc... As you know, everything you suggest, i do You are, after-all, responsible for at the very least 90% of the money I have spent on McIntosh! No regrets

  40. #40

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    I agree. AES3 over S/PDIF or BNC. I find BNC can be the most temperamental cable connector!


    Speakeasy

  41. #41
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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Dan...

    Thank you for chiming in. I was waiting for the grand finale conclusion and thank you for making the choice for me. I will buy the AES/EBU interconnect.

    My next question for you Dan...what would be your choice of cable? Monoprice, Bluejeans, Wireworld, Audioquest, etc... As you know, everything you suggest, i do You are, after-all, responsible for at the very least 90% of the money I have spent on McIntosh! No regrets
    David.......It is no secret I am a big Wireworld fan. I have two complete systems fully loomed with Wireworld. My suggestion would be to look at the Wireworld Gold Starlight AES/EBU digital cable. It is the sweet spot in their AES/EBU offerings, uses OCC solid silver conductors, represents an excellent value, and comes with a life-time warranty.

    My particular cable bias aside, their are many excellent AES/EBU interconnects available from highly respected cable manufacturers. No matter what you ultimately decide to purchase, I would stir clear of the cut rate offerings. Some will tell you a digital cable is a digital cable but that has not been my experience. I am in the "cables matter" camp.
    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
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    Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Double-D View Post
    ...look at the Wireworld Gold Starlight AES/EBU digital cable. It is the sweet spot in their AES/EBU offerings, uses OCC solid silver conductors, represents an excellent value, and comes with a life-time warranty.
    Dan...thanks for the reminder. I should have thought about that before I asked. Yes, you are a fan of WW and I do fondly remember. I like your phrase, "fully loomed with Wireworld." I found the Wireworld Gold Starlight AES/EBU digital cable here on Amazon. Is this the correct cable?

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Golucid View Post
    Dan...thanks for the reminder. I should have thought about that before I asked. Yes, you are a fan of WW and I do fondly remember. I like your phrase, "fully loomed with Wireworld." I found the Wireworld Gold Starlight AES/EBU digital cable here on Amazon. Is this the correct cable?
    David.......That's the one. I don't think you will be disappointed.
    Dan

    STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital coax,
    Sonos Connect, Stillpoints Ultra SS & Ultra Mini, PurePower 2000, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario

    LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable,
    Sony DAT 60ES, Nakamichi BX-300, Micro Seiki DD40 w/m505A tonearm, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Stillpoints Ultra Mini, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113

    VINTAGE - McIntosh 4300V, McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, JBL 4312A

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    David......check with one of our members here.....Jeff of AV Solutions for a great deal on this WW cable. He's a great guy to deal with. His call sign is ..... A/V Solutions


    http://www.avsolutionsca.com/home.html
    McIntosh - PMC - Aurender - Kimber Kable - WW - Core Audio Designs

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by 'cisco View Post
    David......check with one of our members here.....Jeff of AV Solutions for a great deal on this WW cable. He's a great guy to deal with. His call sign is ..... A/V Solutions


    http://www.avsolutionsca.com/home.html

    Suite!!!! Thanks, man!

  46. #46

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    I don't know if anyone is interested, but there is a MDA1000 listed on ebay right now. It didn't sell at $2500 and was just relisted at $2350. No relationship to the seller. I was just nosing around on ebay and saw it. I probably wouldn't have paid too much attention if I hadn't just read about David's purchase and everyone's comments. But now you've all got me thinking...

  47. #47

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    ^^^^ I can't find that listing. There are another two on the US site. Shipping within USA, unlikely they will do international.

    Cosmetic and overall condition is important to me. The original box too!


    Speakeasy

  48. #48

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Apparently I haven't posted on the forum enough to include a link. I tried to send it to you via PM. If that doesn't work, PM your email to me and I'll send it through ebay.

    The seller's screen name is "anroj" in case that makes it easier to search.

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    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Quote Originally Posted by Nuz1 View Post
    Apparently I haven't posted on the forum enough to include a link. I tried to send it to you via PM. If that doesn't work, PM your email to me and I'll send it through ebay.

    The seller's screen name is "anroj" in case that makes it easier to search.
    Steve, I searched for the seller on eBay and found the listing. The seller is specific, no international. That said, if you know someone in USA that is willing to manage the transaction, you are in!

    The MDA manufactured February 2004. Item no.: 252275360993 URL: eBay MDA


  50. #50

    Re: MDA1000 Purchased

    Thanks. I couldn't get an item number to show up in the app on my iPad. I'm sure it's operator error on my part.

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MDA1000 Purchased

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