SACD Player/Transport Choices


I am planning to acquire a McIntosh MCT500 to go with my C53 (proprietary MCT connection).  But I am wondering if there are other good SACD transport choices that will send a true DSD stream to an external DAC on a non-proprietary basis, either through USB or I2S.  I’m trying to research this, but it’s difficult to find definitive answers regarding the actual digital stream from SACD - often I discover that the stream is converted to PCM.  I do know PSAudio has a scheme similar to McIntosh.

I realize simply purchasing DSD and streaming from an SSD is probably more practical these days.  But I am sort of fixated on a physical disc player.  Budget-wise, most interested in transports around or below that of the MCT500 (~$5K). Thanks for your thoughts and advice.

mattsca

THe Onix can also be ordered direct from the US distributor:  Forte Distribution for USD 2399. plus your state sales tax... and free shipping.  However, even though Onix is partnered with Shangling, the Forte first time Shanglin buyer 10% discount will not work for this product.

I need to wait more until summer before I can pop for this.  I hope the price isnt jacked to 4K or more by then...

PS Paul does say there will be a new SACD transport soon.  Well the last one sold for 7K,  so this Shanling/Onix is a bargain.  I suppose should wait for the first reviews to flow in though.  I understand it is shipping around mid month. By the end of May perhaps there will be several reviews...

Sony rigidly controls access to how DSD is utilized and I believe McIntosh is the only manufacturer that has an exclusive means of sending "native" DSD over a wire.

I've been using an MCT80 for quite some time, first with a DA 1 then the DA 2 in the MDA200. I'm set for life!

There is a new CDT from Metronome called the DST that can resample 16/44.1 to DSD256 but not SACD. Srajan at 6moons has a preview of it on his site while he waits for the unit to arrive. It's a slot loader who's drive is made by StreamsUnlimited €4950. 

All the best,
Nonoise