McIntosh MA9000 Black 2-Channel Integrated Amplifier User Manual

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 www.mcintoshlabs.com

MA9000

Integrated Amplifier

Owner’s Manual

Your decision to own this McIntosh MA9000 Inte-

grated Amplifier ranks you at the very top among

discriminating music listeners. You now have “The

Best.” The McIntosh dedication to “Quality,” is as-

surance that you will receive many years of musical

enjoyment from this unit.

Please take a short time to read the information in

this manual. We want you to be as familiar as pos-

sible with all the features and functions of your new

McIntosh.

Table of Contents

Thank You

Please Take A Moment

Technical Assistance

If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh

product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar

with your McIntosh equipment and any other brands

that may be part of your system. If you or your Dealer

wish additional help concerning a suspected problem,

you can receive technical assistance for all McIntosh

products at:

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, New York 13903

Phone: 607-723-3512

Fax: 607-724-0549

Customer Service

If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in

need of repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You

can also return it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service

Department. For assistance on factory repair return

procedure, contact the McIntosh Service Department

at:

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, New York 13903

Phone: 607-723-3515

Fax: 607-723-1917

The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer

name are important to you for possible insurance

claim or future service. The spaces below have been

provided for you to record that information:

Serial Number: _______________________________

Purchase Date: _______________________________

Dealer Name: ________________________________

Important Safety Information is supplied in a separate document “Important Additional Operation Information Guide”

Safety Instructions .............................................................. 2

(Separate Sheet) ............................Important Additional

Operation Information Guide

Thank You and Please Take a Moment ...............................2

Technical Assistance and Customer Service .......................2

Table of Contents .................................................................2

General Information ............................................................3

Connector and Cable Information .......................................3

Introduction ......................................................................... 4

Performance Features ..........................................................4

Dimensions ..........................................................................5

Installation ...........................................................................6

Connections:

Rear Panel Connections .......................................................7

(Separate Sheet) ...........................................................Mc1A

Connecting Components .....................................................8

Connection Diagrams (Separate Sheet) ................. Mc2A/2B

Passthru Connections ..........................................................9

Connecting for Bi-Amplification ...................................... 10

Connecting Loudspeakers ............................................ 11-12

Remote Control and Front Panel:

Remote Control Push-buttons ........................................... 14

How to use the Remote Control ......................................... 15

Front Panel Displays, Controls,

Push-buttons and Jack ....................................................... 16

Setup Mode:

How to Operate the Setup Mode ....................................... 17

Setup Functions:

Default Settings .........................................................17

Fir mware Version ...................................................... 17

Source Input Renaming ........................................17-19

Output Settings ..........................................................19

Power Control Triggers 1 and 2 .................................20

Data Ports ................................................................... 20

Passthru ......................................................................21

Comm Port Baud Rate ...............................................21

Remote Control Codes ............................................... 21

IR Sensor ....................................................................22

Power Mode ...............................................................22

Factory Reset .............................................................22

Microprocessor Reset ........................................................23

Operation:

How to Operate the MA9000 ....................................... 24-31

Trim Functions:

Balance .......................................................................24

Equalizer Mode ..........................................................25

Trim Level ..................................................................25

Phono Adjustments ....................................................25

Mono/Stereo Mode ....................................................26

Meter Backlight .........................................................26

Display Brightness ..................................................... 26

Headphone HXD ........................................................27

Equalizer, Trim, Mute, Headphone Jack .................... 27

Power Output Meters, Power Guard ..........................27

How to Make a Recording .......................................... 28

Using a Separate Power Amplifier .............................28

Using Output 2 and Passthru ......................................28

Equalizer Controls ...................................................... 29

Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs ............................ 29

USB Input Operation with a Computer ...................... 30

Resetting the MA9000 to default settings .................30

Photo ......................................................................... 32

Specifications ....................................................... 33-34

Packing Instructions ................................................. 35

on McIntosh Power Amplifiers. A 3.5mm stereo mini

phone plug is used for connection to the Power Con-

trol, Trigger and Passthru Outputs.

Data Port Connectors

The Data Out Ports send Remote

Control Signals to Source Compo-

nents. A 3.5mm stereo mini phone

plug is used for connection.

IR IN Port Connectors

The IR IN Port also uses a 3.5mm

stereo mini phone plug and allows the

connection of other brand IR Receiv-

ers to the MA9000.

RS232-C Data Port Cable

The RS232 Data Cable is a 3.5mm stereo mini phone

plug to a sub miniature DB 9 connector:

Output Terminal Connector

When cables with spade lugs are used

for Loudspeaker Connection, the spade

lugs need an opening of at least 3/10 inch

(7.6m m)

McIntosh Plug-In Jumper Connector

The MA9000 utilizes two phono style Plug-In Jump-

ers to connect the Preamplifier Output to

the Power Amplifier Input.

Note: The Jumper Connector is available

from the McIntosh Parts Department:

McIntosh Jumper Connector Part No. 117781

XLR Connectors

Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced

Connectors on the MA9000. Refer to the diagram for

connection:

PIN 1: Shield/Ground

PIN 2: + Output

PIN 3: - Output

Power Control and Trigger Connectors

The Power Control Trigger Output Jacks send and

Passthru Input Jack receives Power

On/Off Signals (+12 volt/0 volt)

when connected to other McIntosh

Components. An additional connec-

tion is for controlling the illumina-

tion of the Power Output Meters

1. For additional connection information, refer to the

owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected

to the MA9000.

2. Apply AC Power to the MA9000 and other McIn-

tosh Components only after all the system compo-

nents are connected together. Failure to do so may

cause a malfunction of system operations as the

Microprocessor’s Circuitry inside the components

is active when AC Power is applied.

3. The MA9000 includes an Power Mode Auto Off

Feature and the default setting is enabled. For

additional information including how to disable it,

refer to page 22.

4. When Power Amplifier Protection Circuitry of

the MA9000 has activated, the Front Panel Power

Guard LEDs are illuminated continuously and the

sound will be muted.

5. When the Power Transformer has overheated due

to improper ventilation and/or high ambient operat-

ing temperature, AC Power is removed from the

MA9000. Normal operation will resume when the

operating temperature is in a safe range again.

6. For the best performance and safety, it is important

to always match the impedance of the Loudspeaker

to the Power Amplifier connections. Refer to pages

11 and 12.

Note: The impedance of a Loudspeaker actually var-

ies as the Loudspeaker reproduces different

frequencies. As a result, the nominal impedance

rating of the Loudspeaker (usually measured at

a midrange frequency) might not always agree

with the impedance of the Loudspeaker at low

frequencies where the greatest amount of power

is required. Contact the Loudspeaker Manufac-

turer for additional information about the actual

impedance of the Loudspeaker before connecting

it to the McIntosh MA9000.

7. The MA9000 Remote Control is capable of operat-

ing other components. For additional information

go to www.mcintoshlabs.com.

8. The IR Input, with a 1/8 inch mini phone jack, is

configured for non-McIntosh IR sensors such as

a Xantech Model DL85K Kit. Use a Connection

Block such as a Xantech Model ZC21 when two

or more IR sensors need to be connected to the

MA9000. The signal from a connected External

IR Sensor will have priority over the signal from

the Front Panel IR Sensor.

9. When discarding the unit, comply with local rules

or regulations. Batteries should never be

thrown away or incinerated but disposed

of in accordance with the local regula-

tions concerning battery disposal.

10. For additional information on the

MA9000 and other McIntosh Products please visit

the McIntosh Web Site at www.mcintoshlabs.com.

Connector and Cable Information

Data

Signal

N/C

Data

Ground

General Information

Power

Control

Meter

Illumination

Control

Ground

Main, Trig 1&2

and Pass-Thru

IR Data

Control

Ground

N/C

General Information, Connector and Cable Information

PIN 1

PIN 6

PIN 5

PIN 9

Data In

(DB9-pin2)

Ground

(DB9-pin5)

Data Out

(DB9-pin3)

DB9

(male connector)

3/10 of an inch

(7.6millimeters)

PIN 2 PIN 1

PIN 3

PIN 1

PIN 2

PIN 3

Now you can take advantage of traditional McIntosh

standards of excellence in the MA9000 Integrated

Amplifier. The Power Amplifier section of the

MA9000, with a power output of 300 watts per chan-

nel, will drive a pair of quality Loudspeakers to a high

level of performance.

The flexible Preamplifier section provides connec-

tions for various input sources and may also be used to

drive an external Power Amplifier(s).

The MA9000 reproduction is sonically transparent

and absolutely accurate. The McIntosh Sound is “The

Sound of the Music Itself.”

Introduction

Performance Features

• Power Output with Patented Autoformer

The MA9000 consists of a 300 watts per channel

Power Amplifier with less than 0.005% distortion.

The McIntosh designed and manufactured Autoformer

allows connection of 2, 4 or 8 ohm Loudspeakers. The

Power Amplifier uses ThermalTrak

Output Transis-

tors for lower distortion and cool operation.

• Power Guard

The patented McIntosh Power Guard circuit prevents

amplifier clipping and protects your valuable Loud-

speakers.

• Sentry Monitor and Thermal Protection

McIntosh Sentry Monitor power output stage protec-

tion circuits ensure the MA9000 will have a long and

trouble free operating life. Built-in Thermal Protection

Circuits guard against overheating.

• Electronic Switching and Balanced Connections

The Preamplifier uses Logic Circuits Controlled

ThermalTrak™ and ON Semiconductor are trademarks of Semi-

conductor Components Industries, LLC

Electromagnetic Switches on all inputs and operating

functions for reliable, noiseless, distortion free switch-

ing. There is a Balanced Input for connection of a

source component.

• Digital Audio Inputs

The Digital Inputs decode PCM and DSD Signals

from external sources. Coaxial and Optical Inputs

process Digital Signals up to 192kHz with 24-Bit

resolution. The Digital MCT Input Circuitry directly

decodes SACD/CD signals from an external Trans-

port component. The USB Input for streaming audio

processes Digital Signals up to 384kHz with 32-Bit

resolution, decodes up to DSD256 Digital Signals and

DXD 24-Bit with a sampling rate up to 384kHz.

• Moving Coil and Moving Magnet Phono Inputs

The MA9000 has two precision Phono Preamplifier

Circuits for Moving Coil and Moving Magnet Phono

Cartridges. Both circuits use the latest designs to

provide the lowest possible noise, distortion and flat

frequency response. The MC and MM Phono Car-

tridge Inputs have selectable loading.

• Eight Band Equalizer

The Equalizer Controls provide ±12dB at center

frequencies of 25, 50, 100, 200, 400, 1,000, 2,500 and

10,000Hz. There is also an Equalizer Bypass Mode

to remove the Equalizer from the Signal Path of any

selected input.

• Multifunction Display and Power Meters

The Front Panel Display indicates source selection,

volume levels and setup functions. The Illuminated

Power Output Meters are peak responding, and indi-

cate the power output of the amplifier.

• Power Control Output and Trigger Assignment

A Power Control connection for convenient Turn-On

of McIntosh Power Amplifiers, Source Components

and Accessories is included. The Power Control Trig-

ger Ouputs may be assigned to activate when a given

Input/Output is selected.

• PassThru Mode

The Automatic PassThru Mode allows the MA9000

to become part of a Multichannel Sound System for

DVD-Audio, SACD and Home Theater Movies.

• Remote Control

The Data Ports together with the supplied Remote

Control provide control of McIntosh Source Compo-

nents connected to the MA9000.

• Special Power Supply

The large Power Transformer, multiple filter capaci-

tors with 140 Joules of Energy Storage and regulated

Power Supply, ensures stable noise free operation even

though the power line varies.

• McIntosh Custom Binding Posts

McIntosh Patented gold plated output terminals deliver

high current output. They accept large diameter wire

and spade lugs. Banana plugs may also be used only in

the United States and Canada.

• Glass Front Panel and Super Mirror Chassis

Finish

The famous McIntosh Illuminated Glass Front Panel

uses long life Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and the

Stainless Steel Chassis with Super Mirror Finish

ensures the pristine beauty of the MA9000 will be

retained for many years.

Introduction and Performance Features

Dimensions

The following dimensions can assist in determining

the best location for your MA9000. There is additional

information on the next page pertaining to installing

the MA9000 into cabinets.

Front View of the MA9000

Rear View of the MA9000

Side View of the MA9000

17-1/2"

44.5cm

3/16"

0.5cm

16-13/16"

42.7cm

7/8"

2.2cm

7-15/16"

7.9cm

11-1/2"

29.2cm

19-3/4"

50.2cm

16-7/16"

41.8cm

8-1/4"

21.0cm

USB 30%

DSD256

8-13/16"

22.4cm

9-7/16"

24.0cm

2-1/4"

5.7cm

12-3/4"

32.4cm

1-1/4"

3.2cm

Installation

The MA9000 can be placed upright on a table or

shelf, standing on its four feet. It also can be custom

installed in a piece of furniture or cabinet of your

choice. The four feet may be removed from the bottom

of the MA9000 when it is custom installed as out-

lined below. The four feet together with the mounting

screws should be retained for possible future use if the

MA9000 is removed from the custom installation and

used free standing. The required panel cutout, ventila-

tion cutout and unit dimensions are shown.

Always provide adequate ventilation for your

MA9000. Cool operation ensures the longest possible

operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not

install the MA9000 directly above a heat generat-

ing component such as a high powered amplifier. If

all the components are installed in a single cabinet, a

quiet running ventilation fan can be a definite asset in

maintaining all the system components at the coolest

possible operating temperature.

A custom cabinet installation should provide the

following minimum spacing dimensions for cool

operation.

Allow at least 6 inches (15.24cm) above the top, 2

inches (5.08cm) below the bottom and 2 inches (5.1cm)

on each side of the Integrated Amplifier, so that air-

flow is not obstructed. Allow 20 inches (50.8cm) depth

behind the front panel. Allow 1-7/6 inch (3.66cm) in

front of the mounting panel for knob clearance. Be

sure to cut out a ventilation hole in the mounting shelf

according to the dimensions in the drawing.

USB 30%

DSD256

8-5/16"

21.1cm

17-1/16"

43.3cm

Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting

MA9000 Front Panel

Custom Cabinet Cutout

Cutout

Opening

for

Ventilation

Cutout Opening for Ventilation

Support

Shelf

Cabinet

Front

Panel

Chassis

Spacers

MA9000 Side View

in Custom Cabinet

MA9000 Bottom View

in Custom Cabinet

9-1/2"

24.1cm

15.2cm

Opening

for Ventilation

16"

40.6cm

11-1/2"

29.2cm

Note: Center the cutout Horizontally

on the unit. For purposes of

clarity, the above illustration

is not drawn to scale.

10"

25.4cm

4-5/8"

11.8cm

MA9000 Rear Panel Connections

The identification of Rear Panel Connections for the

MA9000 Integrated Amplifier is located on a separate

folded sheet contained in the Owner’s Manual Packet.

Refer to separate sheet “Mc1A” for the Rear Panel

Connections.

Rear Panel Connections

MA9000 Integrated Amplifer

Connecting Components

The MA9000 has the ability to automatically switch

power On/Off to McIntosh Source Components via

the Power Control (Trigger) connections. The Data

Port Connections allow for the remote operation of

basic functions using the MA9000 Remote Control.

With an external sensor connected to the MA9000, re-

mote control operation of the system is possible from

another room and/or when the MA9000 is located in a

cabinet with the doors closed.

The connection instructions below, together with

the MA9000 Input and Output Connection Diagrams

located on the separate folded sheet “Mc2A/2B”, are

an example of a typical audio system. Your system

may vary from this, however the actual components

would be connected in a similar manner. For addition-

al information refer to “Connector and Cable Informa-

tion” on page 3.

Power Control Connections:

1. Connect a Control Cable from the MA9000 POW-

ER CONTROL MAIN Jack to the Power Control

In on the Turntable.

2. Connect a Control Cable from the McIntosh Turn-

table Power Control Out Jack to the Digital Audio

Player Trigger In Jack.

3. Connect a Control Cable from the Digital Audio

Player Trigger Out Jack to the SACD/CD Trans-

port Power Control In Jack.

4. Connect a Control Cable from the SACD/CD

Transport Power Control Out Jack to the AM/FM

Tuner Power Control In Jack.

5. Connect a Control Cable from the AM/FM Tuner

Power Control Out Jack to the Media Server PWR

CTRL (Power Control) In Jack.

6. Optionally connect a Control Cable from the

MA9000 POWER CONTROL TRIG (Trigger) 2

Jack to the Power Amplifier (Secondary Room)

Power Control In Jack.

7. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a

similar manner, as outlined in steps 1 thru 4.

Data Control Connections:

8. Connect a Control Cable from the MA9000

DATA PORT Jack 3 to the SACD/CD Player Data

In Jack.

9. Connect a Control Cable from the MA9000 DATA

PORT Jack 2 to the AM/FM Tuner Data In Jack.

10. Connect a Control Cable from the MA9000 Jack 1

to the Media Server Data In Jack.

11. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a

similar manner, as outlined in steps 8 thru 10.

Sensor Connection:

12. Optionally, connect the cable with stereo mini

plug coming from the compatible External Sensor

to the EXT CTRL (External Control) IR IN Jack

on the MA9000. Refer to page 3 “General Infor-

mation, note 8” for additional information.

Audio Connections:

13. Connect Balanced Cables from the MA9000

BALANCED INPUT 1L & 1R Connectors to the

Media Server Audio Output Balanced Connectors.

14. Connect Audio Cables from the MA9000 Number

1 UNBALANCED Jacks to the AM/FM Tuner

UNBALanced Output Jacks.

15. Connect the Audio Cables coming from the Turn-

table to the MA9000 MC (for a Moving Coil Car-

tridge) or MM (for a Moving Magnet Cartridge)

INPUT Jacks.

16. Optionally, connect Audio Cables from the

MA9000 OUTPUT 2 Jacks to the Power Amplifier

(Secondary) Input Jacks.

17. Connect any additional Components in a similar

manner, as outlined in steps 13 thru 16.

Optional Digital Audio Connections:

18. Connect an Optical Cable from the MA9000

OPTICAL 1 Digital Audio Input Connector to the

Digital Audio Out Optical Connector on the Digi-

tal Audio Player.

19. Using the “DIN Cable-Twisted Pair” cable (sup-

plied with a MCT Transport), connect the cable

from the MA9000 MCT DIGITAL AUDIO IN-

PUT Connector to the SACD/CD Transport DIN

Output Connector.

Optional USB Connection:

20. Connect a USB cable with (Type A to Type B)

connectors from the MA9000 USB D/A Digital

Audio Input to an available USB connector.

Ground Connections:

21. Connect the Ground Cable coming from the Turn-

table to the MA9000 GND Binding Post.

Notes: 1. If the MA9000 is part of a Home Theater

System, proceed to “PassThru” connection on

page 9.

2. When the MA9000 will used together with a

separate Power Amplifier for Bi-Amplification

of a Loudspeaker System, proceed page 10.

Connecting Components

The MA9000 can be part of a Multichannel Sound

System for BLU-RAY Audio, DVD Audio and Home

Theater Movies. The Right and Left Front Channels

from an Audio/Video Control Center can “Passthru”

the MA9000. In the following example the UNBAL-

ANCED 6 Input will become the “Passthru” input:

1. Connect Audio Cables from the A/V Processor

FL (Front Left) and FR (Front Right) Channel

Outputs to the MA9000 UNBALANCED Num-

ber 6 INPUTS Left and Right Jacks.

2. Connect a Control Cable from the A/V Proces-

sor TRIGger 2 Output to the MA9000 POWER

CONTROL PASSTHRU INPUT Jack.

Note: Refer to Setup “Passthru” on page 21 to assign

the Number 6 INPUT as the “Passthru” Input.

3. Proceed to “Connecting Loudspeaker” on

Page 11.

Passthru Connections

A/V Processor

The MA9000 Power Amplifier Circuitry, together

with an additional separate Power Amplifier, may

be used to Bi-Amplify a Loudspeaker System. In the

illustration on this page, the Power Amplifier of the

MA9000 is connected to the Midrange/High Fre-

quency Section of the Loudspeaker. The additional

separate Power Amplifier is connected to the Low

Frequency Section of the Loudspeaker System.

Warning: The Loudspeaker System used for

Bi-Amplification must have the

jumpers removed from between the

MID/HIGH and LOW Frequency

Sections of the Loudspeaker System.

Failure to remove them could result

in damage to the MA9000 and/or the

separate Power Amplifier.

MA9000 Connections:

1. Remove the “McIntosh Jumpers” from between

the OUTPUT 1 Jacks and the PWR AMP In Jacks

located on the Rear Panel of the MA9000.

Note: Place the “McIntosh Jumper” in a safe place

for possible future use.

2. Using a pair of shielded RCA Type Audio “Y”

Adapters connect the OUTPUT 1 Jacks to the

PWR AMP In Jacks, for both Left and Right

Channels.

3. Connect the remaining unconnected part of the

“Y” Adapters to the separate Power Amplifier.

4. Referring to the Loudspeaker Connection Instruc-

tions on page 11, and in the Owner’s Manual sup-

plied with the Power Amplifier and Loudspeaker,

connect the MA9000 Output Terminals to the

Loudspeaker MID/HIGH Input Terminals.

Note: The Loudspeaker Connection illustrations

on this page are for the Left Channel. Con-

nect the Right Channel Loudspeaker in the

same manner.

Connecting for Bi-Amplification

Left Channel

Loudspeaker

“Y” adapter Cable

Power Amplier

Caution: Do not connect the AC Power Cord to the

MA9000 Rear Panel until after the Loudspeaker

Connections are made. Failure to observe this

could result in Electric Shock.

The connection instructions below, together with the

MA9000 Connection Diagram located on the separate

folded sheet “Mc2B”, is an example of a typical audio

system. Your system may vary from this, however the

actual components would be connected in a similar

manner. For additional information refer to “Connec-

tor and Cable Information” on page 3.

The McIntosh MA9000 Power Amplifier Circuitry

is designed for Loudspeakers with an impedance of

2 ohms, 4 ohms or 8 ohms. Connect a single Loud-

speaker only to the Right and Left Output Terminals.

When connecting Loudspeakers to the MA9000

it is very important to use cables of adequate size, so

there is little to no power loss in the cables. The size is

specified in Gauge Numbers or AWG (American Wire

Gauge). The smaller the Gauge number, the larger the

wire size:

Loudspeaker Cable Distance vs Wire Gauge Guide

Loudspeaker

Impedance

25 feet

(7.62 meters)

or less

50 feet

(15.24 meters)

or less

100 feet

(30.48 meters)

or less

2 Ohms

12AWG 10AWG 8AWG

4 Ohms

14AWG 12AWG 10AWG

8 Ohms

16AWG 14AWG 12AWG

1. Prepare the Loudspeaker Hookup Cable for attach-

ment to the MA9000 Power Amplifier Circuitry:

Bare wire cable ends:

Carefully remove sufficient insulation from the

cable ends, refer to figures F, G & H. If the cable

is stranded, carefully twist the strands together

as tightly as possible.

Notes: 1. If desired, the twisted ends can be tinned

with solder to keep the strands together.

2. The prepared bare wire cable ends may be

inserted into spade lug connectors.

3. Banana plugs are for use in the United

States and Canada only.

Banana Plugs are for use in the United States and

Canada only:

2. Attach the previously prepared bare wire cable ends

into the banana plugs and secure

the connections. Refer to figure I.

3. Rotate the Output Terminal Post

clockwise until it is nger tight.

Refer to gure J. Then using the

McIntosh Wrench, rotate the top

of the Output Terminal one quarter

of a turn (90°). Do not over tighten.

Refer to gure E.

4. Referring to figure K, connect the

Loudspeaker hookup cables with

banana plugs into the hole at the

top of the terminal to

the MA9000 Negative

Output Terminal and

Positive Output Terminal

indentified as 2Ω (ohms),

4Ω (ohms) or 8Ω (ohms)

connection to match the

impedance of the Loudspeaker, being careful to

observe the correct polarities.

Note: The illustration located on the separate

folded sheet “Mc2B” is for connection to an

8Ω (ohms) Loudspeaker.

If the Loudspeaker’s impedance is in-between

the available connections, use the nearest lower

impedance connection. Refer to “General Informa-

tion” Note 6 on page 3 for additional information.

WARNING: Loudspeaker terminals are hazard-

ous live and present a risk of electric

shock. For additional instruction on

making Loudspeaker Connections con-

tact your McIntosh Dealer or McIn-

tosh Technical Support.

Output Terminals

When connecting the Loudspeaker Hookup Cables to

the MA9000 Amplifier Output Terminals please fol-

low the steps below:

1. Rotate the top of the Output

Terminal Post counterclock-

wise until an opening appears.

Refer to gures A and B.

2. Insert the Loudspeaker

hookup cable into the Output

Terminal Post opening or the

cable spade lug around the

center post of the Output Ter-

minal. Refer to gure C.

3. Rotate the top of the Output

Terminal Post clockwise

until it is nger tight. Refer to

gure D.

4. Place the supplied McIntosh

Wrench over the top of the

Output Terminal and rotate it

one quarter of a turn (90°) to

secure the Loudspeaker Cable

Connection. Do not over tighten. Refer to gure E.

How to Connect Loudspeakers

Figure F

Figure G

Figure H

Figure I

Figure A

Opening

Figure B

Figure C Figure D

Figure E

Figure J

Figure I

Figure K

5. Connect the MA9000 power cord to an active AC

outlet.

Spade Lug or Wire Connections:

6. Connect the Loudspeaker hookup cables to the

MA9000 Negative Output Terminal and Posi-

tive Output Terminal indentified as 2Ω (ohms),

4Ω (ohms) or 8Ω (ohms) connection to match the

impedance of the Loudspeaker, being careful to

observe the correct polarities. Insert the spade

lug connector or prepared section of the cable end

into the terminal side access hole, and tighten the

terminal cap until the cable is firmly clamped into

the terminals so the lugs or wire cannot slip out.

Refer to figures L and M.

Note: The illustration located on the separate folded

sheet “Mc2B” is for connection to an 8Ω

(ohms) Loudspeaker.

If the Loudspeaker’s impedance is in-between the

available connections, use the nearest lower im-

pedance connection. Refer to “General Informa-

tion” Note 6 on page 3 for additional information.

WARNING: Loudspeaker terminals are hazard-

ous live and present a risk of electric

shock. For additional instruction on

making Loudspeaker Connections con-

tact your McIntosh Dealer or McIn-

tosh Technical Support.

7. Connect the MA9000 power cord to an active AC

outlet.

Connecting Loudspeakers

Figure L

Figure M

Note: Push-buttons whose function is not identified

above are for use with other McIntosh Products.

Press to Power the Integrated Amplifier ON

Use to select tuner presets, direct ac-

cess an AM/FM Station Frequency,

disc tracks or any numbered operation

Mutes the audio

Adjusts the VOLume level up or down

Selects FM Tuner Operating Functions, select Output

2 when used with the SETUP/shift Push-button and

Track Selection on certain McIntosh CD Players

LEDs illuminate during the time a remote command

is sent and when programming the remote control

Press the Trim Push-button and then the

LEVEL UP Push-button to select and adjust

various functions. MENU is used with Mc-

Intosh Models displaying choices on a video

screen

Press to Power the Integrated Amplifier OFF

Scrolls through the available INPUTs

Used to SELECT/Enter the indicated choice

Use p and q to tune Up or Down the AM/FM

Dial, use u and t for the next or previous HD

Radio Program (were applicable)

Activates the TRIM Mode. GUIDE is

used with McIntosh Models displaying

instructions on a video screen

Press to change Broadcast BANDs on a

connected Tuner. Select certain functions

on a variety of McIntosh Models

Select the DEVICE to issue a remote

control command to

Direct access to stored Tuner PRESETS when

used with the numeric Push-buttons (0 thru 9)

Press the Trim Push-button and then the

LEVEL DOWN Push-button to select and

adjust various functions. INFO is used with

McIntosh Models displaying information on

a video screen

Selects transport functions of STOP,

PLAY/PAUSE, RECORD, BACK for

the previous-selection, FAST-RE-

VERSE, FAST-FORWARD and NEXT

for the next selection

Selects Previous Tuner Station PRESET

Tuner scans Down the dial

to SEEK the next Station

Selects Next Tuner Station PRESET

Tuner scans Up the dial to

SEEK the next Station

SETUP Push-button is used as a

“Shift Key” to select a function

with blue color nomenclature

HR085 Remote Control Push-Buttons

Selects AM Tuner Operating Functions, select Output

1 when used with the SETUP/shift Push-button and

Track Selection on certain McIntosh CD Players

EXIT the TRIM Menu and is used with McIntosh

Models displaying information or choices on a video

screen

How to use the HR085 Remote Control

How to use the Remote Control

The supplied MA9000 Remote Control (HR085) is

capable of directly controlling the functions of con-

temporary McIntosh Source Components connected to

the MA9000 via the Data Ports.

Notes: 1. If at any time the MA9000 seems unrespon-

sive to the HR085 Remote Control Commands,

press the DEVICE Push-button to select

first.

2. For additional information on using the

HR085 Remote Control with the McIntosh

Model, please refer to the “How to Operate”

starting on page 24.

3. For additional information on assigning the

Data Ports, refer to “Data Ports” on page 20.

Trim

Press the TRIM Push-button until the desired Trim

function (Balance, Trim Level, etc.) appears on the

MA9000 Front Panel Display, then press the LEVEL

Up or Down Push-button to adjust the Trim setting.

Note: Press the TRIM Push-button to recall the last Trim

function selected. For additional information on

using the Trim Functions refer to “How to Oper-

ate” page on 24.

Output Selection

Press the BLUE (Setup) Push-button followed by

the AM (Output 1) or FM (Output 2) Push-button, to

control the Rear Panel Audio OUTPUTS 1, 2 (ON or

OFF) and Power Control TRIG 1 / TRIG 2.

Note: For additional information on assigning the Out-

puts (1 and 2) and Power Control Triggers (1 and

2) refer to pages 19 and 20.

USB 30%

DSD256

IR Sensor receives

commands from a

Remote Control

STANDBY/ON Push-button with indica-

tor switches the MA9000 ON or OFF

(Standby) and resets the microprocessors

MUTE Push-button mutes the

audio from the Loudspeakers

and Headphones

Meter indicates the

Right Channel Output

of the amplifier

LED indicates when the Left

Channel Amplifier POWER

GUARD circuit activates

Meter indicates the

Left Channel Output

of the amplifier

LED indicates when the Right

Channel Amplifier POWER

GUARD circuit activates

OUTPUT 1 and 2 Push-buttons

with indicators, switch Preamplifier

Output (Loudspeakers) 1 and 2 On

or Off

INFORMATION DISPLAY indicates the

Sources, Volume, other Audio Settings,

Operational Functions and Setup Mode

Settings

EQUALIZER Push-button with

indicator, when deactivated the

audio signal bypasses the Equal-

izer Controls

EQUALIZER Controls increase or de-

crease the volume levels at the Center Fre-

quencies of 25Hz, 50Hz, 100Hz, 200Hz

400Hz, 1,000Hz, 2,500Hz and 10,000Hz

VOLUME Control allows ad-

justment of the listening level

for both channels. Also used

to change the various TRIM

and SETUP Functions

Connection for low impedance

dynamic headphones, for private

listening

INPUT Control used to

select a source for listening

and recording. The control is

also used to enter the TRIM

or SETUP Modes and select

the various functions

Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack

Your McIntosh MA9000 has been factory configured

to allow immediate enjoyment of superb audio with-

out the need for further adjustments. If you wish to

make changes to the factory default settings, a Setup

Feature is provided to customize the operating settings

using the Front Panel Information Display. Refer to the

MA9000 Front Panel Illustration on the previous page

while performing the following steps.

Note: If the MA9000 is currently On, proceed to

step 2.

1. Press the STANDBY/ON Push-button on the Front

Panel or press the (Power ON) Push-button on

the Remote Control to switch On the MA9000.

The MA9000 will go through a brief startup

initialization with the Front Panel Information

Display first indicating “MA9000”, followed by

the last used source and volume setting. This is

followed by the volume setting indication starting

at zero and then increasing to the last used volume

setting. Refer to figure 1.

2. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until

the Front Panel Information Display indicates

“MA9000 V1.00, (or higher Main Firmware ver-

sion) - S/N: AFK____” (Serial Number). Refer

to figure 2.

3. Rotate the INPUT Control to select the Setup

Mode Menu item, “SETUP: Inputs, (Hold IN-

PUT)”. Continue to rotate the INPUT CON-

TROL to view the other SETUP Mode Options.

Refer to figure 3.

4. To exit from the SETUP Mode, press and hold in

the INPUT Control and the Front Panel Display

will indicate its normal display. Refer to figure 1.

The MA9000 functionality is controlled by internal

software that is know as Firmware. There are two

Firmware Identification Numbers for the MA9000.

The first Firmware Number is for the Main Circuitry

of the MA9000 and can be identified at any time by

How to Operate the Setup Mode

The Default Settings Chart below indicates the Func-

tion Name, Default Setting and the Page Number for

additional information.

Default Settings

Firmware Version

Default Settings

Function Name Setting Page No.

MA9000 V_._ _ 17

DA1 V_._ _ 17

INPUTS On / Rename 17-18

OUTPUTS (1 & 2) Switched 19

TRIGGER 1 Output 1 20

TRIGGER 2 Output 2 20

DATA PORTS

(1 thru 4)

All Data 20

PASSTH RU OFF 21

USB Automute ON 21

RS232 (Rate) 115200 Baud 21

Remote Control Codes Normal 22

IR Sensor Enabled 22

Power Mode Enabled 22

Setup

Figure 2

MA9000 V1.00

S/N: AFK____

Figure 1

BAL 1

15%

The MA9000 provides the ability to switch unused

INPUTS Off (or back On if they have been previously

switched Off). The default INPUT Names can be

changed to match the name of the component con-

nected to it or any other custom name desired (within

10 Characters).

INPUT SWITCHED ON/OFF:

In the following example, the UNBAL 4 Input will be

switched Off.

Note: When an INPUT is swiched Off, its name will

no longer appear on the Front Panel Informa-

tion Display when using the INPUT Control

(Front Panel or Remote Control).

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2.

Input Settings

utilizing the Setup Mode.

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter

Setup Mode.

2. Referring to the Front Panel Information Display-

the number after the character “V” is the Firm-

ware number. Refer to figure 2.

To view the second Firmware Number, which is for

the Digital Audio Circuitry of the MA9000, perform

the following steps:

3. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter

Setup Mode.

4. Rotate the INPUT Control until the Front Panel

Information Display indicates “DA1 Firmware,

V1.00” (or higher Digital Audio Firmware ver-

sion). Refer to figure 4.

5. To exit the Setup Mode, press the INPUT Control.

Figure 3

SETUP: Inputs

(Hold INPUT)

Figure 4

DA1 FIRMWARE

V1.00

ready to be changed. Refer to figure 9.

15. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to change

the character “B” to “M”. Refer to figure 10.

16. Rotate the INPUT Control until the character “A”

is flashing, then rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST)

Control to change the character “A” to “E”. Refer

to figure 11.

17. Rotate the INPUT Control until the character “L”

is flashing, then rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST)

Control to change the character “L” to “D”. Refer

to figure 12.

18. Rotate the INPUT Control until the “_” empty

space to the right of character D is flashing, then

rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to change

the “_” empty space to character to “I”. Refer to

figure 13.

UME Control until the display indicates “SETUP:

UNBAL 4, On / Name”.

10. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

R ENA M E I NPU T:

In the following example, the BAL (BALANCED) In-

put will be renamed to match up with the component

connected (refer to page 8, step 13).

The MA9000 Default Input Names (UNBAL 1, BAL,

COAX 1, etc.) as indicated on the Front Panel Dis-

play can be customized to a different name up to ten

characters long (TUNER, CD PLAYER, etc.). The

available characters for renaming the input include the

following: ! < > * , / - _ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 A B C D E

F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z .

In the following example, the BAL Input will be re-

named to “MEDIA SVR”.

11. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2, on page 17.

12. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Inputs,

(Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 7.

13. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until “SET-

UP: BAL, On / Rename” appears on the Display.

If necessary rotate the INPUT Control to select the

BAL Input. Refer to figure 8.

14. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until “RE-

NAME: BAL, >BAL < ” appears on the Dis-

play. The character “B” is flashing to indicate it is

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Inputs,

(Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 3 on page 17.

3. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until

“SETUP: UNBAL 4, On / Name (Hold INPUT)”

appears on the Display. If necessary rotate the IN-

PUT Control to select the UNBAL 4 Input. Refer

to figure 5.

4. To switch the UNBAL 4 Input Off, rotate the

VOLUME Control until the display indicates

“SETUP: UNBAL 4, Off”. Refer to figure 6.

5. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

In the following example, the UNBAL 4 Input will be

switched On.

Notes: 1. When an INPUT is swiched ON, its name will

appear on the Front Panel Information Display

when using the INPUT Control (Front Panel or

Remote Control).

6. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2, on page 17.

7. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Inputs,

(Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 3, on page 17.

8. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until “SET-

UP: UNBAL 4, Off” appears on the Display. If

necessary rotate the INPUT Control to select the

UNBAL 4 Input. Refer to figure 6.

9. To switch the UNBAL 4 Input On, rotate the VOL-

Input Settings, con’t

Figure 6

SETUP: UNBAL 4

Off

Figure 8

SETUP: BAL

On / Rename

Figure 10

RENAME: BAL

>MAL <

Figure 12

RENAME: BAL

>MED <

Figure 11

RENAME: OPTI

>MEL <

Figure 18

Figure 7

SETUP: Inputs

(Hold INPUT)

Figure 9

RENAME: BAL

>BAL <

Figure 13

RENAME: BAL

>MEDI <

Figure 5

SETUP: UNBAL 4

On/Name (Hold INPUT)

The MA9000 Default Setting for using Headphones

is to automatically mute all the Output Connectors

when the Headphone Cable Plug is inserted into the

MA9000 Front Panel HEADPHONES Jack. There are

two available settings:

Mute All Outputs

Mute No Outputs

6. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: HEAD-

PHONES, Mute All Outputs ” appears on the

Information Display. Refer to figure 24.

7. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to change

the current HEADPHONES setting from “Mute

All Outputs” to “Mute No Outputs”. Refer to

figure 25.

8. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

The Output Settings provide the ability to change how

the MA9000 Output 1, Output 2 and Headphones

function.

OUTPUT 1 and 2:

By default OUTPUT 1 and 2 are set to go On/Off by

using the Front Panel OUTPUT 1 and 2 Push-buttons

or by using the OUTPUT 1 and 2 Push-buttons on the

Remote Control. If it is desirable to have OUTPUT 1

and/or 2 always On regardless of the OUTPUT 1 and

2 Push-button settings, perform the following:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 13.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Out-

puts, (Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information

Display. Refer to figure 19.

3. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until

“SETUP: OUTPUT 1, Switched” appears on the

Display. Refer to figure 20.

4. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to change

from the “Switched” setting to “Unswitched”.

Refer to figure 21.

5. In a similar manner, perform steps 3 and 4 to

change the OUTPUT 2 setting. Refer to figures 22

and 23.

19. Rotate the INPUT Control until the “_” empty

space to the right of character I is flashing, then

rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to change

the “_” empty space to character to “A”. Refer to

figure 14.

20. Repeat step 19 until the new name of “ RENAME:

BAL, MEDIA SVR” is indicated on the Front

Panel Display. Refer to figures 15 thru 17.

21. To save the new name, press and hold in the IN-

PUT Control until “SETUP: MEDIA SVR , ON /

Rename” appears on the Front Panel Information

Display. Refer to figure 18.

22. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Note: For convenience, an “Input Assignment Chart”

on a separate sheet “Mc5A/5B” has been pro-

vided to keep track of changes.

Setup, con’t

Figure 14

RENAME: BAL

>MEDIA <

Figure 18

SETUP: MEDIA SVR

On / Rename

Output Settings

Figure 19

SETUP: Outputs

(Hold INPUT)

Figure 21

SETUP: OUTPUT 1

Unswitched

Figure 20

SETUP: OUTPUT 1

Switched

Figure 23

SETUP: OUTPUT 2

Unswitched

Figure 22

SETUP: OUTPUT 2

Switched

SETUP: HEADPHONES

Mute No Outputs

Figure 25

Figure 24

SETUP: HEADPHONES

Mute All Outputs

Figure 16

RENAME: BAL

>MEDIA SV <

Fig ure 17

RENAME: BAL

>MEDIA SVR <

Figure 15

RENAME: BAL

>MEDIA S <

In the second example, Trigger 2 will activate when

the BAL Input is selected:

6. Rotate the INPUT Control to select “SETUP:

TRIGGER 2, Main” appears on the Display. Refer

to figure 30.

7. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control until

“SETUP: TRIGGER 2, Input (Hold INPUT)” ap-

pears on the Display. Refer to figure 31.

8. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until “SET-

UP: TRIGGER 2, Bal: OFF” appears on the

Display. Refer to figure 32.

9. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

“Bal : ON”. Refer to figure 33.

10. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Power Control Triggers 1 and 2

By default the Power Control TRIGger 1 and TRIGger

2 are assigned to activate when Output 1 or Output 2

is selected. Triggers 1 and 2 can be reassigned to func-

tion the same as the MAIN Power Control Jack or be

assigned to a given Input.

Note: The MAIN Power Control Jack is controlled by

the STANDBY/ON Front Panel Push-button and

the Remote Control Power Push-buttons.

In the first example, the Power Control Triggers 1

and 2 will be assigned to MAIN:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Trig-

gers, (Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information

Display. Refer to figure 26.

3. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until

“SETUP: TRIGGER 1, Output 1” appears on the

Display. Refer to figure 27.

4. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

“MAIN” from the available additional selections

including Output 2 or Input. Refer to figure 28.

5. In a similar manner, perform steps 3 and 4 to

change the Trigger 2 setting from OUTPUT 2 to

Main. Refer to figures 29 and 30.

Figure 26

SETUP: Triggers

(Hold INPUT)

Figure 28

SETUP: TRIGGER 1

Main

Figure 27

SETUP: TRIGGER 1

Output 1

Figure 29

SETUP: TRIGGER 2

Output 2

Data Ports

Data Port Connections between the MA9000 and a

McIntosh Source Component allow for basic function

control of the source component using the MA9000

supplied HR085 Remote Control. By default, all of the

four Data Ports are set to send the same Data to the

selected source. To dedicate a given Data Port for only

one source component (example, source component

connected to the BAL Input will be assigned to Data

Port 1) perform the following Steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Data

Ports, (Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information

Display. Refer to figure 34.

3. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until “SET-

UP: DATA PORT 1, All Data” appears on the

Display. Refer to figure 35.

4. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

the “BAL” Input. Refer to figure 36.

5. In a similar manner, perform steps 3 and 4 to as-

sign any additional Data ports.

6. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Figure 34

SETUP: Data Ports

(Hold INPUT)

Figure 35

SETUP: DATA PORT 1

All Data

Figure 36

SETUP: DATA PORT 1

BAL

Figure 30

SETUP: TRIGGER 2

Main

Fig ure 31

SETUP: TRIGGER 2

Input (Hold INPUT)

Figure 32

SETUP: TRIGGER 2

Bal : OFF

Figure 33

SETUP: TRIGGER 2

Bal : ON

When the MA9000 is part of a Home Theater or

Multichannel Audio System the Right and Left Front

Channels from an Audio/Video Processor or Surround

Decoder can “Passthru” from the assigned MA9000

Input, into the MA9000 Power Amplifier Circurity.

The “Passthru” Audio Signal is also available for a

separate external Power Amplifier(s) via the number

1 Preamplifier Output Jacks. The Setup Mode allows

selection of the specified MA9000 Input to be used

for the Right and Left Front Channels. In the example

below, the Right and Left Front Channels from the

Audio/Video Processsor will be connected to the UN-

BALANCED 6 INPUT Jacks on the MA9000. Refer

to page 9 for additional connection information.

Note: The Phono and Digital Inputs are not assign-

able as a Passthru Input.

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Passth-

ru, Off” appears on the Information Display.

Refer to figure 37.

3. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

“SETUP: Passthru, UNBAL 6” Input. Refer to

figure 38.

4. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

The USB Automute Feature helps to ensure noise free

playback of streaming music via the MA9000 USB In-

put, as the Digital Audio Signal format changes (PCM,

DSD, etc.). On occasion due to the way a Digtal Audio

Music Recording was made, it may become desirable

to switch Off the USB Automute Feature. To switch

Off Automute, perform the following steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: USB

Automute, ON” appears on the Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 39A.

3. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

“SETUP: USB Automute, OFF” Input. Refer to

figure 39B.

4. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Setup, con’t

USB Automute

SETUP: Passthru

UNBAL 6

Figure 38

SETUP: Passthru

Off

Figure 37

Passthru

The MA9000 may be remotely controlled from other

equipment connected to the Rear Panel RS232 Jack.

The speed at which the MA9000 communicates (8 bit,

no parity and 1 stop bit) with other equipment is ad-

justable from 9,600 bits per second to 115,200 bits per

second. To change from the default speed of 115,200

bits per second, perform the following steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: RS232,

115200 Baud” appears on the Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 40.

3. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

the desired Baud Rate Speed.

4. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Comm Port Baud Rate

Figure 40

SETUP: RS232

115200 Baud

Figure 39B

SETUP: USB Automute

OFF

SETUP: USB Automute

Figure 39A

Power Mode

The MA9000 incorporates an Auto Off Feature,

which automatically places the preamplifier into

the Power Saving Standby/Off Mode. This occurs

approximately 30 minutes after there has been an ab-

sence of user activity (includes changes to any of the

Operation Functions such as source selection, volume

adjustment, etc.) or absence of an audio signal. If it is

desirable to disable the Auto Off Feature perform the

following steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Auto

Off, Enabled” appears on the Information Display.

Refer to figure 45.

3. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

Disabled. Refer to figure 46.

4. Press the INPUT Control to exit the Setup Mode.

Figure 45

SETUP: Auto Off

Enabled

Figure 46

SETUP: Auto Off

Disabled

IR Sensor

The MA9000 Front Panel Sensor, which receives

the signals from the HR085 Remote Control, can be

switched off to prevent interference when an external

IR Sensor is connected. To de-activate the Front Panel

IR Sensor perform the following steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: Front

IR, Enabled” appears on the Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 43.

3. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to select

Disabled. Refer to figure 44.

5. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Figure 43

SETUP: Front IR

Enabled

Figure 44

SETUP: Front IR

Disabled

Setup, con’t

Remote Control Codes

The HR085 Remote Control included with the

MA9000 utilizes the NORMAL McIntosh Control

Codes. The second set of Control Codes the MA9000

will respond to is referred to as the ALTERNATE

Codes. The Alternate Codes are used when the

MA9000 is used in the same location as another

McIntosh Preamplifier and/or A/V Processor. This

will prevent the Remote Control from affecting the

operation of both units at the same time. To activate

the Remote Control ALTERNATE Codes perform the

following steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “SETUP: IR

Codes, Normal” appears on the Information

Display. Refer to figure 41.

3. Rotate the VOLUME (ADJUST) Control to the

Alternate Codes. Refer to figure 42.

4. It is now necessary to change the HR085 Remote

Control over to the Alternate Codes. Information

on the HR085 Remote Control is available for

download from the McIntosh Web Site:

http://www.mcintoshlabs.com/us/Products/pages/

ProductDetails.aspx?CatId=preamplifiers&Produ

ctId=MA9000

5. Exit the SETUP Mode by several presses of the

INPUT Control.

Figure 41

SETUP: IR Codes

Normal

Figure 42

SETUP: IR Codes

Alternate

Factory Reset

If it becomes desirable to reset all the adjustable set-

tings (Setup and Trim Settings) to the factory default

values, perform the following steps:

1. Press and hold in the INPUT Control to enter the

SETUP MODE. Refer to figure 2 on page 17.

2. Rotate the INPUT Control until “FACTORY RE-

SET, (Hold INPUT)” appears on the Information

Display. Refer to figure 47.

3. Press and hold in the INPUT Control until “FAC-

TORY RESET, In Progress!” appears on the Infor-

mation Display, then release the INPUT Control.

Refer to figures 48 and 49.

4. Press the Front Panel STAND/BY Push-button to

switch On the MA9000.

Figure 49

FACTORY RESET

Completed!

Figure 47

FACTORY RESET

(Hold INPUT)

Figure 48

FACTORY RESET

In Progress!

Reset of Microprocessors

In the unlikely event the controls of the MA9000 stop

functioning, the microprocessors can be reset by per-

forming the following:

1. Press the STANDBY/ON Push-button until the

STANDBY/ON LED Indicator switches Off in ap-

proximately five seconds.

2. Then release the STANDBY/ON Push-button and

the MA9000 will switch Off.

3. When the STANDBY/ON LED is illuminated

press the STANDBY/ON Push-button, the

MA9000 will resume normal operation.

Note: This can be performed with the MA9000 On or

in the Standby Mode.

Reset of the Microprocesors

Note: For an explanation of the Remote Control

Push-button functions, refer to pages 14 and 15.

Source Selection

Rotate the INPUT Control to select the desired source

or press the INPUT Upp or Downq Push-button on

the Remote Control. Refer to figures 50 and 53.

Volume Control

Rotate the Front Panel VOLUME Control or use the

VOLume Upp or Downq Push-buttons on the Re-

mote Control for the desired listening level. Refer to

figures 50 and 53.

Power On and Off

The Red LED above the STANDBY/ON Push-button

lights to indicate the MA9000 is in Standby mode.

To switch ON the MA9000, Press the STANDBY/ON

Push-button on the Front Panel or press the (Power

- Green) Push-button on the Remote Control. The

MA9000 will go through a brief startup initialization

with the Front Panel Display indicating Power Guard

is active, last used source and volume setting. This is

followed by the volume setting indication starting at

zero and then increasing to the last used volume set-

ting. Refer to figures 50, 51, 52 and 53. To switch OFF

the MA9000, press the STANDBY/ON Push-button

on the Front Panel or the (Power - Red) Push-button

on the Remote Control.

Trim Functions

The MA9000 has various Trim

Selections with Adjustments. The

Trim Functions include Bal-

ance, Input Trim Level, Equal-

izer Mode, Phono Cartridge

Loading when a Phono Input is

selected (Resistance for MC and

Capacitance for MM), Mono/

Stereo, Meter Backlight, Display

Brightness and HXD Mode (when

Headphones are connected).

The Trim Settings are stored in

memory independently for each

Input Source Selected, except the

Meter Illumination which is the

same for all inputs.

Note: Selection and Adjustment of

all Trim Functions may be

performed by pressing the

Front Panel INPUT Trim

Control and then rotat-

ing it to select the desired

Trim Function. Then use the

VOLUME Adjust Control to

change the setting. Remote

Control TRIM Push-Button

together with the LEVEL UP/

Down Push-button may also

be used. Refer to figures 50

and 53.

After approximately 5 seconds

the Display returns to indicate

the Source Selection and Volume

Level.

How to Operate the MA9000

Figure 50

Figure 51

BAL 1 15%

Figure 52

COAX 1 30%

48kHz

Figure 53

USB 30%

DSD256

1. Select “INPUT TRIM” as indicated on the Front

Panel Information Display. Refer to figures 50, 53

and 59.

2. Adjust the Trim Level of each Input to match the

average volume level of the Input most frequently

listened to. The range of adjustment is ± 6.0dB in

half dB steps. Refer to figures 60 and 61.

After approximately 5 seconds the Information

Display returns to indicate the Source Selection and

Volume Level.

PHONO ADJUSTMENTS

When a Phono Input (MC or MM) is selected, an

additional TRIM SELECT FUNCTION becomes

available for adjustment. Perform the following steps

to make the Phono Trim Adjustment:

1. Select the MC Phono Source Input.

2. Select TRIM “PHONO RESISTANCE, 400Ω” as

indicated on the Front Panel Information Display.

Refer to figure 62A.

more precise adjustment of sound than Bass and

Treble Controls. By default, the Equalizer is Off for all

Input Sources and the Equalizer Circuitry is bypassed.

Any Input Source may be assigned to have the Equal-

izer On when selected. To activate the Equalizer for a

given Input Source, perform the following steps:

Note: The audio signal present at the FIXED OUT

Jacks is unaffected by the Equalizer settings.

1. Select the desired Input Source.

2. Select “EQUALIZER, Off” as indicated on

the Front Panel Information Display. Refer to

f igure 57.

3. Set the EQUALIZER On for the desired Input

by using the Front Panel Volume Control or the

Remote Control Push-buttons may also be used to

switch the Equalizer On. Refer to figure 58.

After approximately 5 seconds the Information

Display returns to indicate the Source Selection and

Volume Level.

TRIM LEVEL

Source Components can have slightly different volume

levels resulting in the need to readjust the MA9000

Volume Control when switching between different

sources. The MA9000 allows the adjustment of levels

for each Source, ensuring the same relative volume. To

adjust the Trim Level for the currently selected Input

Source perform the following steps:

BALANCE

Listening balance varies with different program sourc-

es, room acoustics and listening positions relative to

the Loudspeakers. Use the Balance (Trim Function) as

needed to achieve approximately equal listening vol-

ume levels in each Loudspeaker. To adjust the Balance

perform the following:

1. Press the TRIM Push-button repeatedly on the Re-

mote Control until “L BALANCE R, || ” appears

on the Front Panel Display. Refer to figure 54.

Note: The Front Panel INPUT/Trim Control may also

be used.

2. Rotate the VOLUME/Adjust Control or press the

LEVEL UP / DOWN Push-buttons on the Remote

Control to emphasize the Right Channel (refer to

figure 55) or the Left Channel (refer to figure 56).

The Front Panel Display indicates the relative Balance

changes. After approximately 5 seconds, the Display

returns to indicate the Source Selection and Volume

Level. To verify the Balance setting without changing

it, use the TRIM Push-button and select Balance.

EQUALIZER MODE

The built-in eight band Frequency Equalizer provides

How to Operate the MA9000

Figure 56

L BALANCE R

Figure 54

L BALANCE R

Figure 55

L BALANCE R

Figure 58

EQUALIZER

Figure 57

EQUALIZER

Off

Figure 59

INPUT TRIM

0.0 dB

Figure 61

INPUT TRIM

+4.0 dB

Figure 60

INPUT TRIM

-2.5 dB

Figure 62A

PHONO RESISTANCE

400O

3. To select MONO Mode adjust the TRIM LEVEL.

Refer to figure 64.

After approximately 5 seconds the Information

Display returns to indicate the Source Selection and

Volume Level.

METER BACKLIGHT

The MA9000 Front Panel Meter Illumination may be

switched On or Off by performing the following:

1. Select “METER LIGHTS, On” as indicated on the

Front Panel Information Display. Refer to figures

50, 53 (on page 24) and 65.

2. Switch Off the Meter Illumination. Refer to

figure 66.

After approximately 5 seconds the Information

Display returns to indicate the Source Selection and

Volume Level.

Notes: 1. Meter Illumination of recent McIntosh Power

Amplifiers will also switch On/Off when con-

nected to the MA9000 via a power control

cable.

2. Some A/V Processors will provide an On/Off

Control Signal when the MA9000 Passthru

Input Jack is connected to the A/V Processor

via the power control cable.

After approximately 5 seconds the Alphanumeric

Display returns to indicate the Source Selection and

Volume Level.

MONO/STEREO MODE

By default the Stereo Mode is active for all Input

Sources however, any Input Source may be assigned

to Mono Mode. To change Stereo Mode to Mono for a

given Input Source, perform the following steps:

Note: The audio signal present at the FIXED OUT

Jacks is affected by the Stereo/Mono setting.

1. Select the desired Input Source.

2. Select “MONO / STEREO,

______

” as

indicated on the Front Panel Information Display.

Refer to figure 63.

3. Rotate the VOLUME/Adjust Control or press the

LEVEL UP / DOWN Push-buttons on the Remote

Control to select the Resistance Load that comes

closest to the Phono Cartridge Makers recom-

mended value.

4. Temporarily exit TRIM Mode.

5. Select the MM Phono Input.

6. Select TRIM “PHONO CAPACITANCE, 50pF”

as indicated on the Front Panel Information Dis-

play. Refer to figure 62B.

7. Rotate the VOLUME/Adjust Control or press the

LEVEL UP / DOWN Push-buttons on the Remote

Control to select the Capacitance Load that comes

closest to the Phono Cartridge Makers recom-

mended value.

Figure 50

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

Figure 64

MONO / STEREO

____

Figure 63

MONO / STEREO

______

Figure 65

METER LIGHTS

Figure 66

METER LIGHTS

Off

Figure 62B

PHONO CAPACITANCE

50pF

USB 30%

DSD256

Mute

Press the MUTE Push-button to Mute the Audio in

Output 1 (Loudspeakers), Output 2 and Headphones.

The audio signals present at the FIXED OUTPUT

Jacks are not effected by activating the mute func-

tion. The Front Panel Display will indicate the Source

Name and with the word MUTE in place of the actual

volume setting. Refer to figure 71.

Pressing the Mute Push-button a second time

or adjusting the volume control will un-mute the

MA9000.

Headphones Jack

Connect a pair of dynamic headphones to the Head-

phone Jack with a 1/4” (0.635cm) stereo phone type

plug for private listening. The default setting is for

Output Connections 1 and 2 to automatically mute.

For additional Information refer to “HEADPHONE

HXD” on this page.

Note: The Headphone Output is optimized for imped-

ances ranging from 100 to 600 ohms.

Power Output Meters

The MA9000 Power Output Meters indicate the power

delivered to the Loudspeakers. Refer to figure 72.

2. To deactivate the HXD Mode rotate the VOL-

UME Adjust Control until the Front Panel Display

indicates “HEADPHONE HXD, Off”. Refer to

figure 70.

Equalizer

Press the Front Panel EQUALIZER Push-button to

activate the MA9000 Equalizer Control Circuitry for

the currently selected Input Source. The LED above

the EQUALIZER Push-button will illuminate. Re-

fer to figure 50. The MA9000 remembers for each

selected Input whether the Equalizer Control Circuitry

is activated or deactivated. To deactivate the Equal-

izer Control Circuitry for the currently selected Input

Source, press the EQUALIZER Push-button and the

LED above the push-button will extinguish.

Note: 1. The audio signal present at the FIXED OUTPUT

Jacks is unaffected by the Equalizer Circuitry.

2. The EQUALIZER can also be accessed by the

TRIM Function, refer to page 25.

Trim

Press the Front Panel INPUT/TRIM Control to acti-

vate the MA9000 Trim Functions. Rotate the Front

Panel INPUT/Trim Control to select the desired Trim

Function and then rotate the VOLUME/Adjust Con-

trol to vary or make changes. Refer to figure 50. The

Remote Control TRIM and LEVEL UP and LEVEL

DOWN Push-buttons may also be used. Approxi-

mately 5 seconds after Trim Function Selection and/

or adjustments have stopped, the MA9000 will switch

off the Trim Mode.

INFORMATION DISPLAY ILLUMINATION

The Brightness Level of the MA9000 Front Panel In-

formation Display can be adjusted from bright to dim

by performing the following:

1. Select “DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS” as indicated

on the Front Panel Information Display. Refer to

figures 50, 53 (on page 24) and 67.

2. Reduce the Brightness level by adjusting the

TRIM LEVEL. Refer to figure 68.

After approximately 5 seconds the Information

Display returns to indicate the Source Selection and

Volume Level.

HEADPHONE HXD

When headphones are connected to the MA9000 Front

Panel Jack, an additional TRIM function becomes

available. McIntosh’s HXD brings the acoustical depth

and spatiality of music normally heard with loud-

speakers, to your headphones. The default setting is

HXD On. To switch HXD Off perform the following:

1. Momentarily press the INPUT Control, then rotate

it to select “HEADPHONE HXD, On”. Refer to

figure 69.

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

Figure 68

DISPLAY

BRIGHTNESS

Figure 67

DISPLAY

BRIGHTNESS

Figure 70

HEADPHONES HXD

Off

Figure 69

HEADPHONES HXD

Figure 71

COAX 1

MUTE

48kHz

Figure 72

USB 30%

DSD256

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

The meters respond to all the musical information

being produced by the Amplifier. They indicate to an

accuracy of at least 95% of the power output with only

a single cycle of a 2,000Hz tone burst.

Power Guard

During normal operation, the Front Panel Power

Guard Indicators will momentarily illuminate during

peaks in the audio signals. In the event the MA9000

over heats, due to improper ventilation, high ambient

temperature and/or impedance mismatch, the internal

protection circuits will activate. The Front Panel Power

Guard Indicators will continuously illuminate and the

audio will be muted. When the MA9000 has returned

to a safe operating temperature, normal operation will

resume.

How To Make a Recording

1. Select the desired signal source you wish to record

by using the Front Panel INPUT Control or the IN-

PUT Upp or Downq Push-button on the Remote

Control.

2. Adjust the record level using the recorder volume

control and proceed with the recording process.

3. To listen to the playback of the program source just

recorded select the Input the Recording Device is

connected to.

Note: The MA9000 FIXED OUTPUTS are not affected

by the VOLUME, BALANCE or EQUALIZER-

Controls Setting.

Using a Separate Power Amplifier

There are two different ways to use a separate power

amplifier with a MA9000. The first way is to use the

separate amplifier instead of the MA9000 built-in

Power Amplifier. Connect the Loudspeakers to the

separate Power Amplifier and remove the McIntosh

Jumpers that are located between the OUTPUTS 1

Figure 50

Jacks and the PWR AMP INPUT Jacks. Refer to

figure 73.

Note: The McIntosh Jumpers must be connected,

between the above mentioned jacks, when the

MA9000 Internal Power Amplifier is to be used.

The second way is to use both a separate Power

Amplifier and the MA9000 built-in Power Ampli-

fier. Connect one pair of Loudspeakers to the separate

Power Amplifier and the second pair to the MA9000.

Refer to the MA9000 Output Connection Diagrams

located on the separate folded sheet “Mc2B” and

figure 74.

Note: The MA9000 VOLUME Control will affect the

sound level of all the Loudspeakers.

Using Output 2

The MA9000 has provisions for connecting an exter-

nal Power Amplifier (to drive Loudspeakers in another

room) and an external sensor for remote operation of

the MA9000 from that room. With an external Power

Amplifier connected (as illustrated on the McIntosh

Connection Diagram separate sheet “Mc2B”), press

the Front Panel OUTPUT 2 Push-button or press on

Figure 73

Jumpers

Figure 74

Jumpers Removed

USB 30%

DSD256

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

the Remote Control, the BLUE (Setup) Push-button

followed by pressing the OUTPUT 2 Push-button to

switch On or Off the external Power Amplifier.

Passthru

When the MA9000 is connected together with a Mc-

Intosh Multichannel A/V Control Center or Surround

Decoder and has the PASSTHRU Mode activated, it

will automatically turn-on when the A/V Processor or

Surround Decoder is turned On. It will indicate on the

Front Panel Display “PASSTHRU”. Refer to figure 75.

The MA9000 OUTPUT 1 / OUTPUT 2 Front Panel

Push-buttons are active when in the Passthru Mode.

The other Front Panel Controls and Push-buttons are

deactivated as long as the Passthru Mode is active.

Equalizer Controls

The MA9000 Equalizer has eight Frequency Controls

which will raise or lower by 12dB, the amplitude of

the band of frequencies centered at the frequency

marked above the controls. The center frequencies

of these controls are at 25Hz, 50Hz, 100Hz, 200Hz,

400Hz, 1,000Hz, 2,500Hz and 10,000Hz. Both Left

and Right Channels are affected. At the center detent

or flat position of the controls, the tone circuit compo-

nents are removed from the signal path.

The illustration to the right shows the fundamental

frequency range of acoustical musical instruments and

the human voice. It also shows the range of adjustment

of frequencies for each of the Equalizer Controls of

the MA9000 at the +6dB and -6dB points.

Figure 75

PASSTHRU

Fundamental Frequencies of Acoustical Musical Instruments and the Human Voice

SOPRANO

CONTRALTO

TENOR

BARITONE

BASS

PICCOLO

FLUTE

OBOE

ENGLISH HORN

B CLARINET

BASS CLARINET

ALTO SAXOPHONE IN B

BASSOON

CONTRABASSOON

B TRUMPET

FRENCH HORN IN F

TENOR TROMBONE

BASS TROMBONE IN F

TUBA

MEDIUM

SMALL

LARGE

HARP

GUITAR

VIOLIN

VIOLA

CELLO

BASS

PIANO

STRINGS

KETTLE DRUMS

BRASS

WOODWINDS

SINGING VOICE

50Hz

200Hz

1kHz

10kHz

25Hz

100Hz

400Hz

2.5kHz

USB Input Operation and Driver Installation

The MA9000 USB Input provides the capability to

playback music from a computer, when the computer

is connected to the rear panel USB connector.

Note: The USB Input is for direct connection to a com-

puter only. To playback music from an USB Drive,

connect the USB Drive to another USB Port on

the computer and select the USB Drive with the

Media Playback Program.

The MA9000 USB Input is compatible with PC

Computers using Microsoft®, Windows 7 (SP1), Win-

dows 8.1 and Windows 10. It is also compatible with

Apple® Macintosh® Computers using OS-10.6.8 or

later.

When using a PC Computer with Windows, a spe-

cial McIntosh USB Audio Software Driver needs to be

installed on the PC Computer. The driver needs to be

installed before connecting the MA9000 USB Input to

the USB Port on the computer.

Note: If an Apple Macintosh computer is used with the

MA9000, no additional driver is required.

The McIntosh USB Audio Windows Driver is

available for download from the McIntosh Web Site:

http://www.mcintoshlabs.com/us/Support/Pages/

Manuals.aspx

Under “PRODUCT CATEGORY” select “Pre-

amplifiers” then under “MODEL NUMBER” select

“MA9000”. Click on “SEARCH” then select “Mc-

Intosh-HD USB Audio Windows Drive D v1.0” and

download the PC Windows Driver. Follow the instruc-

tions below to install the McIntosh MA9000 Driver:

Purpose: To Install the McIntosh

USB Audio Windows Driver for use with

McIntosh Products with an USB-Digital

Audio Input.

Requirements: 1. A PC Computer with a functioning

USB Port.

2. Windows 7 (SP1 or greater),

Windows 8 (8.1) or Windows 10

Operating System.

3. An USB Cable with Type A to

Type B Connectors.

Installing the Software

It is important to first install the downloaded software

on your computer before connecting the McIntosh

Product to the computer. The USB Driver is included

in the downloaded software package.

Note: Before installing this software, please check to see

if the McIntosh Product(s) with the USB-Digital

Audio Input has the latest firmware version, if not

update the firmware first.

1. Unzip the downloaded McIntosh Windows USB

Driver Software Package.

2. Run

“McIntoshHDSwPkg _20150814_v1p9p110p2.

zip”

. Refer to figures 90 thru 97.

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

Figure 90

Figure 91

Figure 92

Figure 93

Figure 77

COAX 1 30%

______

Figure 76

COAX 1 30%

48kHz

Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs

When a Digital Input (Optical or Coaxial Connection)

on the MA9000 is selected, the Front Panel Display

will indicate the sample rate when a signal is present

“48kHz”. Refer to figure 76.

During the time there is no Digital Signal present on

the selected input the display will indicate “______”.

Refer to figure 77.

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

Figure 98

Figure 99

Figure 100

Figure 94

Figure 95

Figure 96

Figure 97

3. When the Windows Security window appears

check the

Always trust software from “Savitech

Cor p.”

box and then the Install button. When the

software has been installed, it is neces-

sary to reboot the computer. Refer to

figure 96.

After rebooting, a McIntosh-HD icon will

appear on the desktop. Refer to figure 98.

USB Connection

Connect the USB Cable with Type A to Type B con-

nectors between the PC Computer and the McIntosh

Product with the USB-Digital Audio Input. An Icon

will appear On-Screen indicating Windows has found

new hardware. Refer to

figure 99.

Upon completion of in-

stalling the driver, figure

100 will appear.

Figure 101

Figure 103

Figure 102

Figure 104

Windows Sound Settings

For proper operation of the McIntosh Product via the

Computer USB Connection, it is required to make

changes to Windows Sound Settings:

1. From the Windows

START button, click on

“CONTROL PANEL”

followed by selecting

“SOUND”. Refer to

figure 101.

2. Referring to figure 102,

first select “McIntosh-

HD HS USB Audio” and

than click on the “Set

Default” button.

Notes: 1. When the McIn-

tosh USB Audio

Product is not

connected to

your computer,

the previous

default Audio

Device will be

selected.

2. If other McIn-

tosh Products with USB Audio Connections

are also connected to the computer, an ad-

ditional “McIntosh USB Audio” playback

device will appear in the listing. Make

sure to select the “McIntosh-HD HS USB

Audio” from available playback devices

listed when using this McIntosh Product

for USB Audio.

Control Panel Settings

To activate the McIntosh-HD USB Audio Control Pan-

el Click on the “McIntosh Icon” (located in the Win-

dows notification area on the right side of the taskbar)

or Click on the Windows “Show hidden icons”, then

Select the “McIntosh Icon”. Refer to figures 103 and

104.

Notes: 1. It is not necessary

for the McIntosh-

HD USB Audio

Control Panel to

be running, unless

it is desired to

make changes to

the default set-

tings.

2. The McIntosh-

HD USB Audio

Control Panel

displays the cur-

rent Sampling

Rate, Bit-Rate

and Buffer Size

for the music

streaming from

the com-

puter into the

MA9000.

3. When the Media

Stream Program

on the computer

is set to output

in the “ASIO”

format, the Mc-

Intosh -HD USB

Audio Control

Panel allows for

changing the set-

tings parameters

on the fly.

Figure 105

USB 46%

44.1kHz

Figure 106

USB

51%

352.8kHz

Figure 107

USB

46%

DSD128

Figure 108

USB

51%

DSD256

USB Music Playback

When the USB Input is selected on the McIntosh

MA9000, the Front Panel Display indicates the

Sampling Rate (refer to figures 105 and 106 for PCM

Signals).

Figures 107 and 108 indicate a Sampling Rate of 128

or 256 times the Sampling Rate of a CD Disc for the

incoming DSD Digital Audio Signal.

The Sampling Rate and the Bit Rate are determined

by the original recording, the Application Output

Format (when available) and the McIntosh-HD Control

Panel Settings.

Note: In general, when the original music is recorded

at a higher Sampling Rate, the result is usually

more detail in the music. However, this higher

rate results in consuming larger amounts of stor-

age space. The Sample Rate usually should be set

to match the Sample Rate of the music recording

being played back.

There are many third party Applications (besides Ap-

plications like Windows Media Player) for steaming

music from the computer to McIntosh MA9000 USB

Input. An example of just one of the available applica-

tions is “JRiver Media Center”.

How to Operate the MA9000, con’t

Photos

Preamplifier Specifications

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.005% maximum 20Hz to 20,000Hz

Intermodulation Distortion

0.005% maximum for any combination of frequencies

from 20Hz to 20,000Hz

Frequency Response

+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz

+0, -3dB from 10Hz to 100,000Hz

Preamplifier Output 1 and 2 (for rated input)

1.7V unbalanced (8V Maximum)

3.4V balanced (8V Maximum)

Preamplifier Output Impedance

220 ohms

Sensitivity (for rated output)

High Level - 300mV unbalanced

600mV balanced

Phono MM, 3.0mV

Phono MC, 0.3mV

Signal To Noise Ratio (A-Weighted)

High Level, 98dB below rated output

Phono MM, 84dB below 5mV input

Phono MC, 82dB below 0.5mV input

Input Impedance

High Level - 22K ohms Unbalanced

44k ohms Balanced

Phono MM - 50 to 400pF, in 50pF steps;

47K ohms

Phono MC - 50, 100, 200, 400 or 1,000 ohms;

100pF

Volt age Gain

High Level to Rec Output: 0dB

High Level to Output 1 and 2: 15dB

Phono MM to Rec Output: 40dB

Phono MC to Rec Output: 60dB

Phono MM to Output 1 and 2: 55dB

Phono MC to Output 1 and 2: 75dB

Maximum Input Signal

High Level, 8V unbalanced, 16V balanced

Phono MM, 80mV

Phono MC, 8mV

Headphone Impedance

100 to 600 ohms

Equalizer Controls

25Hz, 50Hz, 100Hz, 200Hz, 400Hz, 1,000Hz,

2,500Hz and 10,000Hz

20 50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k

FREQUENCY IN HERTZ

- 5

-10

-15

+ 5

+10

+15

Power Amplifier Specifications

Power Output

Minimum sine wave continuous average power output

per channel, with both channels operating is:

300 watts into 2 ohm load

300 watts into 4 ohm load

300 watts into 8 ohm load

Output Load Impedance

2, 4 or 8 ohms

Rated Power Band

20Hz to 20,000Hz

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.005% maximum with both channels operating from

250 milliwatts to rated power, 20Hz to 20,000Hz

Intermodulation Distortion

0.005% maximum, if the instantaneous peak power

output does not exceed twice the rated power output

for any combination of frequencies from 20Hz to

20,000Hz.

Dynamic Headroom

1.8dB

Wide Band Damping Factor

Greater than 40

Power Guard

Less than 2% THD with up to 16dB overdrive at

1,000Hz

Frequency Response

+0, -0.25dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz

+0, -3.0dB from 10Hz to 100,000Hz

Input Sensitivity (for rated output)

1.7 Volts

Signal To Noise Ratio (A-Weighted)

114dB below rated outpu)

Input Impedance

22,000 ohms

Maximum Input Signal

Power Amplifier In, 16V

Volt age Gain

29dB, 8 Ohms

26dB, 4 Ohms

23dB, 2 Ohms

MA9000 Preamplifier, Digital Audio and Power Amplifier Specifications

Digital Audio Specifications

Digital Input Signal Format

Coaxial and Optical Inputs - SPDIF (PCM)

MCT and USB Inputs - PCM, DSD

Digital Input Sample Rate

Coaxial and Optical: 44.1kHz to 192kHz, 24-Bit

MCT: 44.1kHz, 16-Bit (CD)

DSD64 (SACD)

USB: 44.1kHz to 384kHz, 32-Bit (PCM)

DSD64, DSD128, DSD256,

DXD352.8kHz, DXD384kHz

Digital Inputs

Coaxial: 0.5V p-p/75 ohms

Optical: -15dbm to -21dbm (TOS Link)

MCT: 0.5V p-p/75 ohms

USB: USB Type B Connector

General Specifications

Power Control and Trigger Output

12VDC, 25mA

Power Requirements

Field AC Voltage conversion of the MA9000 is not

possible. The MA9000 is factory configured for one

of the following AC Voltages:

100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 8.0 amps

110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.6 amps

120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.6 amps

127 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.6 Amps

220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 3.6 amps

230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 3.3 amps

240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 3.3 amps

Standby: Less than 0.25 watt

Note: Refer to the rear panel of the MA9000 for the cor-

rect voltage.

Overall Dimensions

Width is 17-1/2 inches (44.45cm)

Height is 9-7/16 inches (24.0cm) including feet

Depth is 22 inches (55.88cm) including the Front

Panel, Knobs and Cables

Weight

101 pounds (45.8 kg) net, 134 pounds (60.8 kg) in ship-

ping carton

Shipping Carton Dimensions

Width is 29-1/2 inches (74.93cm)

Depth is 29 inches (73.66cm)

Height is 17 inches (43.18cm)

MA9000 General Specifications

Packing Instructions

MA9000 Packing Material List

In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for

shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as

shown below. It is very important that the four plastic

feet are attached to the bottom of the equipment. Two

1/4-20 x 2-1/4 inch screws and washers must be used

to fasten the unit securely to the bottom pad and wood

skid. This will ensure the proper equipment location

on the bottom pad. Failure to do this will result in

shipping damage.

Use the original shipping carton and interior parts

only if they are all in good serviceable condition. If

a shipping carton or any of the interior part(s) are

needed, please call or write Customer Service Depart-

ment of McIntosh Laboratory. Refer to page 2. Please

see the Part List for the correct part numbers.

Quantity Part Number Description

1 034052 Shipping carton top

1 034051 Shipping carton bottom

2 034186 Front and rear foam pad

2 034187 Side foam pad

2 034054 Top and bottom foam pad

1 034136 Inner carton top

1 034137 Inner carton bottom

1 034188 Inner foam pad

1 034479 Shipping skid

4 401212 1/4-20 hex cap x 2-1/4 inch

screw

2 104058 1/4 inch flat washer 1-1/2

inch

4 017937 Plastic foot

4 404080 #10 flat washer

The continuous improvement of its products is the

policy of McIntosh Laboratory Incorporated who

reserve the right to improve design without notice.

Printed in the U.S.A.

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

2 Chambers Street

Binghamton, NY 13903

www.mcintoshlabs.com

McIntosh Part No. 04175401

McIntosh MA9000 Black 2-Channel Integrated Amplifier

Product's Documents

User Manual

Specifications

McIntosh MA9000 Questions and Answers

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