McINTOSH has launched a new digital stereo preamp that’s as good as it gets at this point. The D150 sports the same 32-bit DAC (an ESS Sabre, we assume) as the older D100 and supports a variety of high-resolution formats, including DSD and DXD.
Five digital inputs are provided – the USB input will take up to 32-bit/384kHz signals and support DSD64, DSD128, DXD 352.8kHz and DXD 384kHz, while the two coaxial and optical inputs each accept up to 24-bit/192kHz signals.
Balanced and unbalanced connections are provided, with separate variable and fixed volume outputs; the D150 can also be used as a headphone amplifier.
There is a 1/8-inch mini jack to control data from the data output jack of a McIntosh preamp or A/V Control Center.
Of course, the looks – including handcrafted black-glass front panels – are pure classic McIntosh. The compact unit stands about four inches high.
Available for order from your neighbourhood McIntosh dealer now.
