McIntosh DA2 Upgrade Kit | Now Available

McIntosh DA2 Upgrade Kit | Now Available

Nov 25, 2019

We are pleased to announce the new DA2 Digital Audio Module Upgrade Kit is now available.

The DA2 Digital Audio Module is McIntosh's newest and most advanced module for processing digital audio. It comes standard in the C53 and C2700 Preamplifiers, allowing both of those units to take advantage of some of the latest innovations in digital audio technology. McIntosh home audio products equipped with the DA1 can now be upgraded to the newer DA2.

The models that can be upgraded to the DA2 are: MA9000, MA8900, MA7200, and MA5300 Integrated Amplifiers; MAC7200 Receiver; and C49 Preamplifier. (Note: These models will continue to come with the DA1 installed. Upgrading to the DA2 is an optional dealer installed upgrade that must be installed by an Authorized McIntosh Dealer or Authorized McIntosh Service Agency.)

The DA2 Digital Audio Module builds upon the DA1 with an expanded set of capabilities. In addition to having all the same connections as the DA1, a new audio-only HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) connection is included on the DA2. This allows it to be connected to TVs with a compatible HDMI (ARC) output to bring TV sound to the next level by listening to it through a home stereo system.

Additionally, the DA2’s USB input can support native playback of up to DSD512, surpassing the DSD256 limit of the DA1. This increased DSD playback support is thanks to the next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that powers the DA2. This audiophile-grade DAC is highlighted by both improved dynamic range and total harmonic distortion compared to the DAC in the DA1.

Upgrading: Due to the technical nature of the DA2 upgrade, the upgrade must be performed by a qualified trained professional at an Authorized McIntosh Dealer or Authorized McIntosh Service Agency. Paragon is an Authorized McIntosh Dealer & Service Agency. (Please note that if the upgrade is performed by anyone other than an Authorized McIntosh Dealer or Authorized McIntosh Service Agency, under the terms of the McIntosh Limited Warranty any resulting damage or failure of the unit will be excluded from warranty coverage.)

Ordering: The DA2 Upgrade Kit has an MSRP of $1,000 with shipping expected to begin in November 2019.