SHANLING MCD1.3
Desktop CD player DAC / headphone amplifier and streamer:
Following the success of the popular SCD1.3, the MCD1.3 DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and CD player has arrived. The MCD1.3 can play CD discs just as well, but uses a Philips SAA7824 drive and Sanyo DA11 laser and also supports 4X MQA-CD quality, unlike the SCD1.3, which remains in the brand’s lineup as the flagship player for SACD records. The tuning of this multifunctional device is based on Shanling’s flagship portable player, the M9 Plus, using the AKM AK4499EX and AK4191EQ DAC chip combo, complemented by an XMOS XU316 USB interface and TPA6120 headphone amplification. It delivers an extremely detailed and expansive soundstage with precise tonality, while adding a pleasant warmth and smoothness to the classic Shanling sound. Thanks to highly accurate volume control and the MUSES8920 working as a preamplifier, the MCD1.3 can be paired directly with power amplifiers or active speakers, making it easy to build a simple, high-quality 2-channel speaker setup. It uses the MediaTek ME1389EE system alongside a tray-loading laser mechanism that fully exploits the capabilities of CD discs.
Beyond CD playback, it offers a wealth of options, including Bluetooth functionality, a USB-A U-Disk port, as well as NAS, DLNA and AirPlay network support. Via Bluetooth 5 connection, AAC, aptX HD and LDAC resolutions are available, and with the free Eddict Player app the device can be easily controlled remotely. In addition to USB-B, coaxial SPDIF and Toslink optical inputs, it also provides I2S HDMI, coaxial SPDIF and Toslink optical digital outputs, as well as RCA and balanced XLR analog outputs, so the SCD1.3 can be integrated into virtually any audio system.
The MCD1.3 is built with a simple, elegant aluminum chassis and features a 5" M-Touch touchscreen display, available in black and silver finishes. Not just for CD collectors!
