McIntosh Launches MB25 Bluetooth Transceiver
All Image Credit: McIntosh
McIntosh Laboratory has launched the MB25, a compact aptX HD-enabled Bluetooth transmitter/receiver. The successor to the MB20, the MB25 retains all of MB20’s features while introducing enhancements for an improved user experience, adding high-quality wireless streaming to any legacy audio system that lacks this capability. It has the ability to function as either a receiver or transmitter at the flick of a switch and includes both analog and digital inputs and outputs allowing it to support physical media sources such as CDs and vinyl.
Its Class 1 Bluetooth 5.0 technology supports high-fidelity codecs to include; Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) and Qualcomm aptX HD and it is equipped with a high-performance 32-bit DAC for receiver mode and a premium Analogue-to-Digital Converter (ADC) for transmitter mode. An outboard DAC is also supported through the use of its coaxial and optical outputs. It does not function as a standalone DAC.
As the successor to the MB20, the MB25 retains all of MB20’s features and now includes upgrades to include: an illuminated front glass panel in McIntosh’s signature black glass that displays audio signal rates (32 to 192 kHz) and connection types (aptX, aptX HD, AAC, etc.), plus the flexibility to select the desired input in transmit mode. It also has Power Control so the MB25 can be easily turned on and off with the rest of a McIntosh audio system.
Rear panel connectivity includes; balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA stereo inputs and outputs, coaxial and optical digital inputs and outputs, and power control I/O.
Acting as either a receiver or transmitter (not at the same time), the MB25 can receive audio from compatible Bluetooth devices, and then use output connections to play the audio through your sound system. Or in Transmitter mode, users can stream the music from physical media sources, such as CDs or vinyl records, to Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers. Multi-room support, up to 150feet, is also available using multiple MB25 and/or MB20 models.
Finally, the MB25 is enclosed in a custom aluminum chassis having a black glass front panel with an illuminated logo, and includes a wall mount power supply with adapters for global compatibility.
Features AT A Glance:
- Easy way to stream to a McIntosh of any era
- Bluetooth 5.0, Advanced Audio Coding (AAC), Qualcomm aptX HD, and aptX Low Latency
- Use as either a transmitter or receiver
- Front panel input selection
- Signal rate and connection type displays
- Analog and digital inputs and outputs – including balanced connections
- Small footprint – not much bigger than a smartphone
Specifications:
- Bluetooth version: 5.0
- Digital input format: PCM
- Supported Protocols: A2DP, SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Low Latency, aptX HD
- Connectivity: Stereo XLR & RCA, Digital coax and optical input/outputs
- Digital Input Format: PCM
- Digital Input Sample Rate: Up to 24-Bit/192kH
- Digital output format: 24-Bit/96kHz
- Digital Output Sample Rate: 96kHz
- Power control input/output: 1
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 9-29/64″ (24cm) x 2-1/2″ (6.35cm) (antenna in upright position adds additional 1-3/8″ (3.43cm) x 3-15/16″ (10.01cm)
- Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.2kg)
MSRP:
- US: $600.00
- UK: £850.0
- EU: €850.00
For more information visit the McIntosh website.
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- For more McIntosh product posts click here.
