Owner's manual | McIntosh MCD201 Owner`s manual

SACD/CD Player
MCD201
Owner’s Manual
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McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York
13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512
FAX: 607-724-0549
The lightning flash with arrowhead,
within an equilateral triangle, is
intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK OF
FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION -
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover or
back. No user-serviceable parts inside.
Invisible Laser Radiation when open. DO
NOT stare into the beam or view directly
with optical instruments. Use of controls
or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified in the
Owners Manual may result in Hazardous
Radiation Exposure.
LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE
KLASS 1 LASER APPARAT
VAROITUS!
VARNING!
Laitteen kayttaminen muulla kuin
tassa kayttoohjeessa mainitulla
tavalla saattaa altistaa kayttajan
turvallisuusluokan 1 ylittavalle
nakymattomalle lasersateiiylle.
Om apparaten anvands pa annat satt
an i denna bruksanvisning specificerats, kan anvandaren utsattas for
osynbg laserstraining, som overskrider
gransen for laserklass 1.
This product incorporates an embedded
CLASS 3R Laser (IEC60825-1).
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The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE
OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized
or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are
provided for your safety. If the provided plug does
not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specified by the manufacturer,
or sold with the apparatus. When a
cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination
to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply
cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or
splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the equipment.
16. To completely disconnect this equipment from the
a.c. mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug
from the a.c. receptacle.
17. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall
remain readily operable.
18. Do not expose batteries to excessive heat such as
sunshine, fire or the like.
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3
Thank You
Table of Contents
Your decision to own this McIntosh MCD201 SACD/CD
Player ranks you at the very top among discriminating
music listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh
dedication to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive
many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all
the features and functions of your new McIntosh.
Safety Instructions ............................................................ 2
Thank You and Please Take a Moment............................. 4
Technical Assistance and Customer Service .................... 4
Table of Contents .............................................................. 4
General Information ......................................................... 4
Disc Information ............................................................... 5
Connector and Cable Information .................................... 5
Introduction....................................................................... 6
Performance Features ....................................................... 6
Dimensions ....................................................................... 7
Installation ........................................................................ 8
Please Take A Moment
The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer
name are important to you for possible insurance claim or
future service. The spaces below have been provided for
you to record that information:
Serial Number: __________________________________
Purchase Date: __________________________________
Dealer Name: ___________________________________
Technical Assistance
If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh
product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar
with your McIntosh equipment and any other brands that
may be part of your system. If you or your Dealer wish
additional help concerning a suspected problem, you can
receive technical assistance for all McIntosh products at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-1545
Fax: 607-724-0549
Customer Service
If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in need of
repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You can also return
it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service Department. For
assistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the
McIntosh Service Department at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-3515
Fax: 607-723-1917
Copyright 2005 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
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Connections:
Rear Panel Connections .................................................... 9
How to Connect Control, Analog and Digital Audio ..... 10
How to Connect Directly to a Power Amplifier ............. 11
Front Panel Features:
Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack . 12
Front Panel Information Display..................................... 13
Remote Control:
Remote Control Push-buttons ......................................... 14
How to Operate by Remote Control ............................... 15
Operation:
How to Operate the MCD201 ......................................... 16
Additional Information:
Specifications .................................................................. 22
Packing Instruction .........................................................23
General Information
1. For additional connection information, refer to the
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected to
the MCD201 SACD/CD Player.
2. The Super Audio Compact Discs Audio Signals are
converted internally from Digital to Analog.
3. A PCM version of the decoded MP3 Signal is available
at the Digital Audio Outputs.
Disc and Connector Information
Disc Information
Connector and Cable Information
1. Compact Discs that are not round (e.g. Novelty discs
with octagonal or heart shapes) will not play properly in
the MCD201 and should not be tried, as possible damage may occur.
2. The MCD201 SACD/CD Player is designed to play all
standard CD Audio Discs that conform to the Official
Compact Disc Standards which is indicated by the
Symbol. It will also play most CD-R and CD-RW discs,
however some recorded discs may not be able to play
due to the condition of the recording.
3. CD Audio Discs recorded in the MP3 Format will playback on the MCD201 except discs that contain multisession recordings. Some MP3 recorded discs may not
be able to play due to the condition of the recording.
4. The CD audio side of the Dual Disc does not meet the
Compact Disc Digital Audio specifications found in the
industry “Redbook”; the MCD201 may not read Dual
Discs.
5. Several of the SACD performance features available on
the MCD201 are active only if the SACD Disc includes
the supporting encoded information.
XLR Connectors
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced
Output Connectors on the MCD201. Refer to the diagram
for connection:
PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Output
PIN 3: - Output
PIN 1
PIN 3
PIN 2
Power Control Connector
The MCD201 Power Control Input/Output Jacks receive/
send Power On/Off Signals when connected to other McIntosh Components. Power
Control
A 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plug is
N/C
used for connection to the Power ConGround
trol Input/Output on the MCD201.
Note: The Data ad Power Control Connecting Cable is available from the McIntosh Parts Department:
Data and Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202
Six foot, shielded 2 conductor, with 1/8 inch stereo mini
phone plugs on each end.
Data and IR Input Port Connectors
The MCD201 Data In Port receives Remote Control Signals. A 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plug
Data
is used for connection. The IR Ports
Signal
also use a 1/8 inch stereo mini phone
N/C
plug and allow the connection of other
Data
brand IR Receivers to the MCD201.
Ground
IR Data
Control
N/C
Ground
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Introduction and Performance Features
Introduction
The McIntosh MCD201 SACD/CD Player offers the latest
in audio technology, providing state of the art reproduction
of audio program sources. A full complement of performance features allows for the enjoyment of the SACD
special audio format available on discs. Audio CDs are also
reproduced with flawless realism. The advanced mechanical design of the transport ensures many years of smooth
trouble free operation.
Performance Features
• Twin Laser Pickup
The MCD201 incorporates two laser elements, with different wavelengths, that are focused through one lens assembly. This unique design allows reading both the CD and
Super Audio Compact Disc (SACD) Discs Formats.
• Advanced Transport
The MCD201 has a new transport with the latest in advanced digital servo for faster, quieter and accurate operation. The SACD Data is read into memory from the disc
at twice the normal rate. Likewise CD Audio Data is read
into memory at four times the normal rate. The fast read
speeds help to insure better disc tracking and error correction processing.
• Super Audio Disc Playback
The MCD201 plays SACD Discs with their higher resolution sound quality.
• Multi-Bit Digital to Analog Converter
The 192kHz Digital to Analog Converter has a wide dynamic range and extremely low distortion.
• Front Panel Level Control
With headphones connected to the MCD201, the Level
Control allows varing the volume level of the music. It can
also be used for matching the volume level of the MCD201
with other components in the system.
• Drive a Power Amplifier Directly
The Variable Output Connections provide up to 6 Volts.
This is more than enough signal to drive any Power Amplifier directly; forming a high quality SACD/CD Disc
Playback System.
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• Balanced Outputs
The MCD201 has both variable and fixed Balanced Outputs, permitting long cable lengths without a loss in sound
quality.
• Digital Audio Outputs
There are Coaxial and Optical Digital Outputs for external
decoding of PCM and MP3 Signals from CDs.
• Power Control
The Power Control Input connection provides convenient
Turn-On/Off of the MCD201 when connected to a McIntosh System with Power Control. The Power Control Output connection can control a McIntosh Power Amplifier in
a high quality disc playback system.
• Full Function Remote Control
The Remote Control provides complete control of the
MCD201 operating functions including adjustment of the
volume level. The push-buttons on the Remote Control are
illuminated.
• Special Power Supply
A fully regulated Power Supply, with a special R-Core
Power Transformer, ensures stable noise free operation
even though the power line varies.
• Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination
The Illumination of the Glass Front Panel is accomplished
by the combination of custom designed Fiber Optic Light
Diffusers and extra long life Light Emitting Diodes
(LEDs). This provides even Front Panel Illumination and is
designed to ensure the pristine beauty of the MCD201 will
be retained for many years.
Dimensions
Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining the
best location for your MCD201. There is additional information on the next page pertaining to installing the
MCD201 into cabinets.
17-1/2"
44.45cm
5-3/8"
13.69cm
Front View of the MCD201
6"
15.24cm
17"
43.18cm
4-5/8"
11.75cm
Rear View of the MCD201
13-1/4"
33.65cm
15-7/8"
40.32cm
5/8"
1.59cm
14-1/2"
36.83cm
Side View of the MCD201
3/16"
0.48cm
4-13/16"
12.22cm
13/16"
2.06cm
2"
5.08cm
10-1/2"
26.67cm
1-15/16"
4.92cm
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Installation
Installation
The MCD201 can be placed upright on a table or shelf,
standing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in
a piece of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The four feet
may be removed from the bottom of the MCD201 when it
is custom installed as outlined below. The four feet together with the mounting screws should be retained for possible
future use if the MCD201 is removed from the custom
installation and used free standing. The required panel
cutout, ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are shown.
Always provide adequate ventilation for your MCD201.
Cool operation
ensures the
longest possible operating life for
MCD201 Front Panel
any electronic
Custom Cabinet Cutout
instrument.
Do not install
the MCD201
directly above
a heat generating component such as a
high powered
amplifier. If
Cabinet
Front
all the comPanel
ponents are
installed in a
single cabinet,
a quiet running
MCD201 Side View
ventilation
in Custom Cabinet
fan can be a
definite asset
in maintaining
Support
all the system
Shelf
components at
the coolest possible operating
temperature.
1"
A custom cabi2.54cm
net installation
MCD201 Bottom View
should provide
in Custom Cabinet
the following minimum
spacing dimensions for cool
3"
operation.
7.62cm
Allow at least
Note: Center the cutout Horizontally on the unit.
For purposes of clarity, the above
�
illustration
is not drawn to scale.
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2 inches (5.08cm) above the top, 2 inches (5.08cm) below
the bottom and 1 inch (2.54cm) on each side of the Audio
Control Center, so that airflow is not obstructed. Allow 17
inches (43.18cm) depth behind the front panel. Allow 1-1/8
inch (2.9cm) in front of the mounting panel for knob clearance. Be sure to cut out a ventilation hole in the mounting
shelf according to the dimensions in the drawing.
17-1/16"
43.34cm
4-7/8"
12.38cm
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
Chassis
Spacers
1-1/16"
2.70cm
8-5/8"
21.91cm
15-1/2"
39.37cm
Cutout Opening
for Ventilation
12-5/16"
31.27cm
15-1/16"
38.26cm
Rear Panel Connections
BALANCED VARIABLE level
AUDIO OUTPUTS supply analog audio signals to connect to
Balanced Inputs of other components
COAXIAL DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT sends signals
to a Control Center
with a D/A Converter or a decoder
OPTICAL DIGITAL
AUDIO OUTPUT
sends signals to a Control Center with a D/A
Converter or a decoder
POWER CONTROL IN
receives turn-on signals
from a McIntosh component and POWER CONTROL OUT sends turn-on
signals on to another
McIntosh Component
BALANCED FIXED level AUDIO OUTPUTS supply analog
audio signals to Balanced Inputs
of other components
DATA IN receives
operating data from
a McIntosh Control
Center
UNBALANCED FIXED level
AUDIO OUTPUTS supply analog audio signals to Unbalanced
Inputs of other components
UNBALANCED VARIABLE
level AUDIO OUTPUTS supply
analog audio signals to Unbalanced Inputs of other components
Connect the MCD201
power cord to a live AC
outlet. Refer to information on the back panel of
your MCD201 to determine the correct voltage
for your unit
IR INput for
connecting an IR
Receiver
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How to Connect Control, Analog and Digital Audio
How to Connect Control, Analog and Digital
Audio
1. Connect a Power Control Cable from the MCD201
POWER CONTROL IN jack to the POWER CONTROL
ACC Output jack of a McIntosh Preamplifier/Control
Center.
2. Connect a Data Cable from the MCD201 DATA IN jack
to the CD2 DATA jack on the McIntosh Preamplifier/
Control Center.
3. Connect an Optical Cable from the MCD201 OPTICAL
DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT to the CD2 Optical DIGITAL INPUT of a McIntosh Preamplifier/Control Center.
Note: An optional connecting method is to use an coaxial
4. Connect XLR Cables from the MCD201 BALANCEDFIXED AUDIO OUTPUTS to the Balanced Inputs on a
McIntosh Preamplifier/Control Center.
Notes: 1. The Unbalanced Audio Ouputs may be used instead of the Balanced Outputs.
2. The VARIABLE AUDIO OUTPUTS, Balanced
or Unbalanced outputs, may used instead of the
FIXED AUDIO OUTPUTS.
5. Connect the supplied AC Power Cord between the
MCD201 AC Power Cord Socket and a live AC outlet.
cable from the MCD201 COAXIAL DIGITAL AUDIO
OUTPUT to the Coaxial Digital Input of a McIntosh
Preamplifier/Control Center.
To AC Outlet
McIntosh A/V Control Center
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How to Connect Directly to a Power Amplifier
How to Connect Directly to a Power Amplifier
The MCD201 SACD/CD Player has Variable Output Connections and a Front Panel Level Control making it possible to form a high performance Disc Playback System.
This system consists of a MCD201 directly connected to a
McIntosh Power Amplifier.
1. Connect a Power Control Cable from the MCD201
POWER CONTROL OUT jack to the POWER CONTROL IN jack of a McIntosh Power Amplifier.
2. Connect XLR Cables from the MCD201 BALANCED
VARIABLE AUDIO OUTPUTS to the Balanced Inputs
on a McIntosh Power Amplifier.
3. Connect the supplied AC Power Cord between the
MCD201 AC Power Cord Socket and a live AC outlet.
Note: The Unbalanced Audio Ouputs may be used instead
of the Balanced Outputs.
To AC Outlet
McIntosh Power Amplifier
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Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack
Selects the SACD
or CD Audio
Tracks from a
hybrid disc
Push to mute the audio
at rear panel Audio Output Connectors (Headphones are not affected)
Move rapidly
forward through
a track during
playback
Move rapidly
backward through
a track during
playback
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IR Sensor receives
commands from a
Remote Control
Allows moving backwards or forwards one
track at a time
Connection for low
impedance dynamic headphones, for
private listening
Adjusts the listening
volume level
Disc Tray opens to
load and unload a disc
Audio Output
Mute On Indicator
Stops disc
playback
Front Panel
Information
Display
Standby Power On
Indicator
Starts disc
playback
Use to Pause
during playback
STANDBY/ON
Push-button switches the MCD201 ON
or OFF (Standby)
and resets the microprocessors
Opens and Closes
the disc tray for
loading or unloading discs
Front Panel Information Display
Indicates when the two
digits below are displaying the Track Number
Indicates when
in the Pause
Mode
Indicates when
the Play Mode
is active
Indicates the Programming or Program Play
Mode is active
Indicates
the Random
Play Mode
is active
Indicates the
Total Time
Indicates the current Track
Time, Remaining Track
Time, Total Disc Playing
Time, Text and various
other Information
Indicates the type
of disc loaded: CD,
SACD or MP3
Indicates the Repeat
Mode selected; Repeat
All (Tracks), Repeat 1
(Track) or Repeat from
point A to point B in
the selected Track
Indicates the
Remaining Time
Indicates the Stereo Mode
Indicates the number of tracks
on the Disc and Programmed
Tracks
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Remote Control Push-Buttons
Access any numbered operating
function
Use to toggle the power On and Off
to the MCD201
Use to Clear the last programmed
track
Use to select various disc information, including time, on the Front
Panel Display. It is also used to
cancel the text display mode on a
SACD Disc.
Adjusts the volume level up or down
Starts Playback of a disc and
allows moving forwards or
backwards one track at a time
on SACD and CD Discs
Press for random playback of tracks
from SACD and CD Discs
Use to select one of various repeat
modes
Use to set a starting and ending time
segment on a disc for continuous
repeat play
Access the Text Display Mode when
playing a SACD Disc containing the
information
Used to stop the disc and pause playback of the disc
Move forwards or backwards
through a disc
Use to program the desired tracks on
a SACD or CD disc
Use to select the SACD or CD
Tracks from a hybrid disc for playback
Use to review the programmed
tracks from the disc on the Front
Panel Information Display, while
in the program mode
Note: The Remote Control Push-buttons with a “grayed background” are for use with other McIntosh Products.
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How to use the Remote Control
How to use the Remote Control
The Remote Control is capable of performing basic Operating Functions for the MCD201 SACD/CD Player.
Notes: 1. Refer to the “How to Operate” Section of this
manual for additional information using this Remote Control.
2. The translucent Remote Control Push-buttons
will illuminate for approximately 3 seconds when
activated.
Play
With a disc loaded, press the PLAY Push-button to start
the disc playing.
Stop
Press the STOP Push-button to stop disc playback and
return to displaying the table of contents of the disc.
Numbered Push-buttons
Press 1 through 9 to directly access one of the first nine
Disc Tracks using the Front Panel Information Display. For
track numbers greater than 10, press the Push-button of the
tens digit first and followed by the units digit. For example,
to access Disc Track 23, press the 2 push-button and then
the 3 push-button.
Pause
Press the PAUSEPush-button to temporarily stop disc
playback at any time. Press the PAUSEPush-button a
second time to resume playback or just press the PLAY
Push-button.
REV and FF
Press and release REV (Reverse) or FF (Fast Forward)
Push-button to start moving rapidly through a track on the
disc.
Display/Time
Press the DISPlay/TIME Push-button to access various
disc times. It also used to return the Front Panel Information Display to indicating time instead of text information
on a SACD Disc.
Menu/Text
Press to select the various text information on a SACD
Disc such as Album, Artist and Track Titles (disc dependent).
Repeat Modes
Press the RPT (Repeat) Push-button to select either the
One Track, All Tracks or cancel the Repeat Mode.
A-B Repeat
Press the A-B (Repeat) Push-button once to establish the
starting point of the repeat loop and press the A-B (Repeat)
Push-button a second time for the ending point, and that
segment of a disc to be repeated continuously.
Program
Press the PGM (Program) to activate the Programing mode
to playback only certain disc tracks in the desired order.
Review
Press the RVW (Review) Push-button to review the programmed tracks from the disc on the Front Panel Information Display, while in the program mode.
Clear
Press the CLEAR Push-button to erase a program track(s).
Back and Next
Press the NEXT  Push-button to move forward one track
or the BACK  Push-button to move back to the beginning of the current track playing.
Note: If the BACK  Push-button is pressed during playback of the first three seconds of the track, the MCD201
will start playing back the previous track from the
beginning.
SACD/CD
Press the select the SACD or CD Tracks from a hybrid disc
for playback.
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How to Operate the MCD201
Power On
The Red LED above the STANDBY/ON Push-button lights
to indicate the MCD201 is in Standby mode. To Switch
ON the MCD201, press the STANDBY/ON Push-button
on the Front Panel or the PWR (Power) Push-button on the
Remote Control. Refer to figures 6 and 12.
How to Load a Disc
1. Press the OPEN/CLOSE Push-button. The disc tray will
slide out allowing a disc to be loaded. Refer to figure 1.
2. Press the OPEN/CLOSE Push-button and the disc tray
will close. Refer to
figures 6 and 2. LoadFigure 1
ing of disc’s Table of
Contents (number of
tracks and total playing
time) will be indicated
Figure 2
on the Front Panel
Information Display.
Depending on the type
Figure 3
of disc (SACD, CD or
MP3), it may take up to 30 seconds to read the Table of
Contents (TOC). Refer to figures 3 and 4.
Note: When a Disc is placed in the tray and the PLAY Pushbutton is pressed, the tray will close and the first track
will start playing.
How to Play a SACD Disc
With a disc already loaded into the MCD201, press the
PLAY Push-button on the Front Panel of the MCD201 or
Remote Control. Refer to figure 5.
16
Figure 7
The Player will load the CD Table of Contents (Number of tracks and Total Playing Time) at this time. To start
playing the CD Layer press the PLAY Push-button.
Notes: 1. Changing between the layers can be accomplished
at any time by performing the above procedure.
2. Some SACD Disc(s) have the ability of displaying the Album Title and Artist by pressing the
MNU/TEXT Push-button after the SACD Table of
Contents is read. Refer to figure 8.
3. In a similar manner, some SACD Disc(s) have the
Figure 8
Figure 4
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The Disc will start playing the first track of the
SACD Layer.
Figure 5
To change from the
default SACD Layer to CD Layer, with the disc stopped
(press the STOP Push-button if the disc is playing) press
the SACD/CD Push-button on the Front Panel or Remote
Control. Refer to figures 6 and 7.
Figure 6
ability of displaying the Track Title by pressing
the MNU/TEXT Push-button after the Track has
started to play. Refer to figure 9.
4. The Text Display Mode may be canceled by press-
Figure 9
How to Operate the MCD201
ing the DSP/TIME Push-button on the Remote
Control. Refer to figure 12.
How to Play a CD Disc
With a disc already loaded into the MCD201, press the
PLAY Push-button on the Front Panel of the MCD201 or
Remote Control. Refer to figures 5, 6, 10 and 12.
through a Track on a disc at 4 times
the normal speed. To return to
normal playback, press and release
the same FF (Fast Forward)  or
REV (Reverse)  Push-button, press
the PLAY or press the PAUSE
Push-button. Refer to figures 6 and
12.
Note: The Fast Forward and Reverse
Modes work within the track
playing.
Figure 10
How to Pause a Disc
This feature allows for the temporary stopping of disc
playback. Refer to figures 6 and 11.
1. When playing a Disc, press the PAUSE Push-button
to temporarily stop playback.
Figure 11
2. Press the PLAY Push-button or press the PAUSE
Push-button a second time to cancel Pause and resume
playing the disc.
Track Back
Return to the beginning of the Track currently playing
by rotating the MCD201 Front Panel TRACK BACK 
Control counterclockwise and then releasing the control
or momentarily pressing the BACK  Push-button on
the Remote Control. Rotate and hold the TRACK BACK
 Control or press and hold the BACK  Push-button
for rapid selection of the desired previous Tracks. Refer to
figures 6 and 12.
Track Next
Advance to the next Track by rotating the MCD201 Front
Panel TRACK NEXT  Control clockwise and then releasing the control or momentarily pressing the NEXT 
Push-button on the Remote Control. Rotate and hold the
TRACK NEXT  Control or press and hold the NEXT
 Push-button for rapid selection of the next desired
Track. Refer to figures 6 and 12.
Stop Mode
Press the STOP Push-button at
any time to stop Playback. To listen
to the disc again, press the PLAY
Push-button and playback will start
from the beginning of the disc.
Volume Level
The MCD201 has both Fixed and
Variable Output Level Connections.
The Variable Output Level Connections (Rear Panel and Front Panel
Headphone Jack) are controlled by
the Front Panel Level Control and
the Level Push-buttons on the Remote Control. Refer to figures 6, 12
and 13. When the Level Control or
Figure 12
Push-buttons are operated, the Front
Panel Information Display will indicate the Volume Level
from 0 - 100%. Approximately 3 seconds after making any
changes to the Volume Level, the Information Display will
return to the previous indication.
Figure 13
Notes: 1. Wait until the Information Display returns to pre“Volume Level Adjustments” indication before entering any new operational commands.
2. When the Volume Level is 81%, the Rear Panel Variable Outputs will be at the same volume level as the
Fixed Outputs.
Fast Forward or Reverse
Press and release the FF (Fast Forward)  or REV (Reverse)  Push-button to search back and forth rapidly
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How to Operate the MCD201, con’t
Mute
Press the MUTE Push-button to mute the audio at both the
Fixed and Variable Output Connections on the Rear Panel.
Refer to figure 6. The LED above the MUTE Push-button
will illuminate. Pressing the MUTE Push-button a second
time restores the audio at the output connections and the
LED will no longer be illuminated.
Note: The Headphone Jack is not affected by the Mute
Function.
Direct Track Selection
The MCD201 Front Panel Display indicates the Disc Track
currently playing. Use the Remote Control NUMERIC
Push-button(s) to enter the desired Track Number. Refer
to pages 14 and 15 for additional information using the
Remote Control.
Repeat
This allows repeating a Track or Disc on a continuous
basis. Refer to figures 6 and 12.
1. Start playing the disc or the part of the disc desired to
have repeated.
2. Press the RPT (Repeat) Push-button once to activate the
Track Repeat (1); press the RPT Push-button twice to
activate the Disc Repeat (All). Refer to figures 14 and
15.
Figure 16
Figure 17
3. To cancel A-B REPEAT function press the A-B Pushbutton once again. The word “REPEAT A-B” in the
Front Panel Information Display will extinguished.
Note: The A-B Repeat Mode works within the track
playing. Fast Forward and Reverse functions are
disabled during the A-B Repeat Mode.
Random Playback
This feature allows for listening to Tracks of a Disc in a
Random Order. Refer to figures 12 and 18.
Note: The MCD201 must be in STOP Mode with the Disc
Loaded and the Table of Contents read before the
Random Playback Mode Feature can be activated.
1. With the MCD201 in the STOP Mode press the Random Push-button. The word RANDOM should now be
indicated in the Information Display.
Figure 18
Figure 14
Figure 15
3. To cancel the previously selected Repeat Mode, press
the RPT (Repeat) Push-button until the word “REPEAT
1 ” or the word “REPEAT ALL” in the Front Panel
Information Display is extinguished.
A-B Repeat
This feature allows continuous repeating of a specific disc
segment. Refer to figures 12, 16 and 17.
1. Start playing the part of the disc you desire to have
repeated.
2. Press the A-B Push-button once to enter the A (starting
point) and press the same push-button a second time to
enter the B (ending point).
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2. Press the PLAY Push-button to start Random
Playback. After all the tracks have been played the
MCD201 will stop.
Notes: 1. To provide continuous playback of the disc,
press the RPT Push-button twice to activate the
Disc Repeat (All) after the Random Playback
Mode has started. If Repeat (1) is selected, Random Playback Mode is canceled.
2. The BACK TRACK function is not active during
the Random Playback Mode.
3. To cancel the Random Playback Mode, press the
STOP Push-button, then press the Random Pushbutton.
Program Playback
This feature allows for the playback of programmed Tracks
of a Disc in the desired order. In the example below, a Disc
is programmed to play Track 6 followed by Track 4 and
then Track 2.
Notes: 1. The MCD201 must be in STOP Mode with the Disc
TOC (Table of Contents) read before the Program
How to Operate the MCD201, con’t
Playback Mode Feature can be activated.
2. When programming Hybrid SACD Discs, first
choose the layer (SACD or CD) so the correct TOC
can be read, as some discs have different selections
for the SACD and CD Tracks.
1. Press the PGM (Program) Push-button to access the
Program Mode. Refer to figures 12 and 19.
Figure 19
2. Enter the first desired selection using the Numeric
Push-buttons. Refer to figures 12 and 20.
Figure 20
3. In a similar manner, enter the remaining Tracks. Refer
to figures 21 and 22.
Figure 21
Figure 22
Notes: 1. The CLEAR Push-button may be used to delete
programmed track(s), starting with the track
entered last.
2. To cancel a Program before starting playback
of the Program, press the STOP Push-button.
4. To start playback of the just entered program, press
the PLAY Push-button. The Repeat Mode can be
activated to provide continuous playback of the Programmed Track(s). Refer to figure 23.
Figure 23
5. To cancel the Program Playback
Mode either press the STOP
Push-button followed by pressing
the PGM (Program) Push-button
or press the STOP Push-button
twice.
6. Once the Program Playback Mode
is active, tracks may be added
by first pressing the STOP
Push-button followed by entering the additional tracks using
the Numeric Push-buttons. Then
press the PLAY Push-button to
resume Program Playback Mode.
7. If you would like to delete a
track(s) once the Program Playback Mode is active, first press
the STOP Push-button followed
by pressing the CLEAR Push-button until the desired track is removed. The MCD201 removes the
last track entered first, followed
by the second last track, etc. Any
new tracks may be added by using
the Numeric Push-buttons. Then
press the PLAY Push-button to
resume Program Playback Mode.
Figure 12
MP3 Disc Playback
The MCD201 has the ability of playing back MP3 encoded
discs. MP3 allows more tracks on the Disc by using the
technique of lossy compression applied to the original
audio information. The MP3 Track has lower audio quality than the original recording. Load a MP3 disc into the
MCD201. Refer to figure 24.
Figure 24
1. Press the PLAY Push-button to start Playback. Refer
to figure 25. After all the tracks have been played the
MCD201 will stop.
Note: MP3 Discs will only indicate the elapse time and
remaining time for each track as it is playing.
Note: To momentarily stop playback, press the PAUSE
Push-button. To resume Program Playback press
the PLAY Push-button.
Figure 25
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How to Operate the MCD201, con’t
How to Operate the MCD201, con’t
Display Brightness
The MCD201 Front Panel Information Display has three
brightness settings. To change from the default setting
(brightest of the three) perform the following:
1. Press and hold the STOP Push-button and rotate
the TRACK Control counterclockwise, then release
the control for the middle brightness setting. Refer to
figure 6 on page 16.
2. With the STOP Push-button still pressed in, rotate
the TRACK Control counterclockwise again for the
dimmest setting.
3. In a similar manner, increase the brightness by pressing
and holding in the STOP Push-button and rotating
the TRACK Control clockwise, then release the control
for the middle brightness setting. Repeat for the brightest setting.
Note: The Display Brightness will return to the default
setting the next time the MCD201 is switched On.
Reset of Microprocessors
In the unlikely event the controls of the MCD201 stop
functioning, the microprocessors can be reset by performing the following:
1. Press and hold in the STANDBY/ON Push-button for
approximately five seconds. Refer to figure 6 on page
16.
2. When the STANDBY/ON LED is no longer illuminated, release the STANDBY/ON Push-button.
3. When the STANDBY/ON LED is illuminated press the
STANDBY/ON Push-button, the MCD201 will resume
normal operation.
Note: This can be performed with the MCD201 On or in
the Standby Mode.
Operation in a McIntosh System
The MCD201 basic transport functions may also be controlled by using the Remote Control that comes with a McIntosh Control Center or Preamplifier. McIntosh Keypads
can also be used to remotely control the basic transport
functions of the MCD201. The labeling of Push-buttons on
some McIntosh Remote Controls and Keypads are different from the supplied MCD201 Remote Control. Refer to
the listing below and figures 26 and 27:
MCD201 Remote Control
Push-button
Pause
SACD/CD
Rev
FF
Level Up
Level Down
McIntosh Remote Control/
Keypad Push-button
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Figure 26
E
Review
Seek Down
Seek Up
AM
FM
Figure 27
Notes
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Specifications
Audio Specifications
General Specifications
Fixed Output level
2.0Vrms Unbalanced
4.0Vrms Balanced
Digital Output
Optical: - 15dbm to -21dbm (CD and MP3)
Coaxial: 0.5V p-p/75 ohm (CD and MP3)
Sampling Frequencies: 44.1kHz (CD and MP3)
Variable Output level
0 - 6.0Vrms Unbalanced
0- 12.0Vrms Balanced
Output Impedance
600 ohms Unbalanced and Balanced
Frequency Response
4Hz to 110,000Hz, +0.5, -2dB (SACD)
4Hz to 20,000Hz, ±.05dB (CD)
Signal to Noise Ratio
Better than 110dB (A-weighted)
Dynamic Range
Better than 100dB
Harmonic Distortion
0.002% @ 1000Hz (SACD)
0.003% @ 1000Hz (CD)
Channel Separation
Better than 98dB (1,000Hz)
Transport
Laser Beam Wavelength: 650nm (SACD)/790nm (CD)
Laser Power: CLASS IIa/CLASS I
Power Requirements
100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 35 watts
Note: Refer to the rear panel of the MCD201 for the correct
voltage.
Overall Dimensions
Width is 17-1/2 inches (44.45cm)
Height is 6 inches (15.24cm)
Depth is 16-1/2 inches (41.91cm)
Note: When the Disc Tray is opened, the panel clearance
required in front of mounting panel is 6-3/4 inches
(17.2cm).
Weight
22.8 pounds (10.4Kg) net, 39.2 pounds (17.8Kg) in shipping
carton
Shipping Carton Dimensions
Width is 26-1/2 inches (67.3cm)
Depth is 24-1/4 inches (62.2cm)
Height is 11-3/4 inches (29.9cm)
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Packing Instructions
Packing Instructions
In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for
shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown
below. It is very important that the four plastic feet are attached to the bottom of the equipment. This will ensure the
proper equipment location on the bottom pad. Failure to do
this will result in shipping damage.
Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only
if they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping
carton or any of the interior part(s) are needed, please
call or write Customer Service Department of McIntosh
Laboratory. Refer to page 4. Please see the Part List for the
correct part numbers.
Quantity
1
4
Part Number
033838
033837
Description
Shipping carton only
End cap
1
1
1
1
033836
033725
034301
034037
Inside carton only
Top pad
Bottom pad
Inner carton pad
4
4
4
017937
100159
104083
Plastic foot
#10-32 x 3/4” screw
#10-7/16” Flat washer
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McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, NY 13903
The continuous improvement of its products is the
policy of McIntosh Laboratory Incorporated who
reserve the right to improve design without notice.
Printed in the U.S.A.
McIntosh Part No. 04095400
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