McIntosh is back with a new streaming DAC, the DS2000, and if you’re someone who already has a solid power amp and preamp but needs a high-quality streaming source, this could be what you’re looking for. Instead of an all-in-one unit with amplification, the McIntosh DS2000 focuses purely on streaming and digital audio conversion, making it a great fit for people who already have a dedicated hi-fi setup but want to bring streaming into the mix.
Streaming is at the heart of the DS2000, and it supports just about every major streaming platform you’d expect from a high-end device. Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Bluetooth are all onboard, so no matter what service you use, you should be covered.
It’s also Roon Ready and Roon Tested, meaning it integrates smoothly with Roon’s music management system, making it easy to browse your music library with extra metadata and better organization.
On the connectivity side, the DS2000 includes dual Wi-Fi antennas and a Bluetooth antenna to ensure stable wireless performance. If you prefer a wired setup, Ethernet is available. There’s even Google Assistant voice control support, so if you have a compatible smart speaker, you can control playback hands-free.
The real magic happens inside, where McIntosh has packed in a Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit DAC. Without getting too technical, this means the DS2000 is designed to deliver precise digital-to-analog conversion, helping music sound clearer, more detailed, and more dynamic.
It comes with eight digital inputs, supporting a range of high-resolution formats:
One thing to note: there are no analog inputs, so if you have an older turntable or other analog source, you’ll need an external preamp or DAC to make it work with the DS2000.
McIntosh gives users flexibility when it comes to outputs. The DS2000 ships in fixed output mode, but if you want to use it as a preamp, you can switch to variable output mode and control volume directly. It includes both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs, so whether you’re connecting it to a power amp, integrated amp, or AVR, you should have no problem finding the right setup.
If you already own other McIntosh components, the Data IN port, Power Control ports, and an RS232 Control port make it easy to integrate the DS2000 into your system. A wireless remote control is included as well.
Like every other McIntosh product, the DS2000 looks the part. The black glass front faceplate, rotary control knobs, illuminated McIntosh logo, and custom-machined aluminum end caps make it instantly recognizable as part of the McIntosh family. Whether you’re stacking it with other McIntosh gear or using it as a standalone piece, it has that signature high-end look and feel.
The McIntosh DS2000 Streaming DAC is set to launch in March 2025 through authorized McIntosh dealers. Pricing is $4,000 (USD) / £5,890 (GBP) / €5,990 (EUR).
If you already own a high-end amp and preamp but need a dedicated streaming solution, the DS2000 makes a lot of sense. It’s built to seamlessly integrate into an existing system, offering top-tier digital audio performance, robust connectivity, and a sleek, classic design.
However, if you’re looking for an all-in-one system with built-in amplification or analog inputs, this might not be the right fit. The $4,000 price tag also puts it in premium territory, so it’s geared toward users who are serious about digital streaming in a high-fidelity setup.
For those in the market for a streaming DAC that prioritizes sound quality and flexibility, the DS2000 is certainly worth considering.
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