McIntosh MX180 RoomPerfect AV Preamplifier

Enjoy life to the fullest today, but at the same time prepare for the future of home theater. When an increasing number of successful films are released in a technically high-quality direct to home theater, a reference-level home theater system claims its place in more and more homes. With its advanced features, the MX180 allows you to fully enjoy today's 4K video and tomorrow's 8K content as it becomes more available. In addition, the MX180 is the most wonderful choice for music lovers who want soul-stirring sound quality even in stereo.

The MX180 A/V processor supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz image playback on all 7 Ultra High Speed ​​????HDMI ports (5 inputs and 2 outputs). Each port supports the latest HDCP 2.3 copy protection, backward compatible with older devices, 4:4:4 color separation, Rec. 2020 color scale, dynamic sound and image synchronization, Quick Media Switching (QMS) connection, which minimizes the delay of changing the image format on compatible devices, and 3D video pass-through. HDMI outputs can either send the same source material to two different displays at the same time, or they can deliver content from two different sources to two different displays at the same time.

Pure digital processor with McIntosh's legendary XLR analog output

The MX180's typical setup extends McIntosh's 2-channel system into home theater use. In this case, the front channels are connected to the Home Theater bypass input of a compatible McIntosh front amplifier or integrated amplifier. The cooperation of the devices is seamless in terms of current control and power control. On the other hand, thanks to the genuine McIntosh analog outputs, the MX180 is so superb in its sound quality that it also fulfills the role of a reference-level stereo preamplifier.

Picture-quality fireworks

There is no "one-size-fits-all" device through which the image sources are connected to the TV or projector. As with sound quality, high-quality electronics and power supply significantly affect the purity and liveliness of the picture. To create the most realistic and detailed image possible, the MX180 supports all major dynamic image formats; HDR (static HDR), Dynamic HDR, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision (including low latency). These technologies ensure that every single frame in a video is displayed with its ideal combination of depth, detail, brightness, contrast and color – either scene by scene or even analyzed individually.

Other improved HDMI features included in the MX180 ensure performance even in gaming by bringing smooth and seamless motion in all situations.

• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) enables smooth, lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity. Quick Frame Transport (QFT) reduces lag for smoother gaming and real-time interactive virtual reality.
• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) reduces or eliminates lag, stuttering, and tearing, making gaming smoother and more detailed.

Multichannel at its best

The MX180 is compatible with all leading 3D audio formats, including Dolby® Atmos, DTS:X® Pro and Auro-3D®, so the finest soundtracks from your favorite movies are lit up in dazzling brilliance. One of the HDMI outputs supports both the traditional audio return channel (ARC) and the modern version supporting higher quality audio formats (eARC). The audio return channel enables a TV with corresponding support to send audio data to the AV processor via an HDMI cable, so separate audio cables are not needed. The more advanced eARC provides more bandwidth, so with higher resolution audio formats such as DTS-HD Master Audio™, DTS:X®, Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Atmos, the MX180 can produce the best possible sound quality.

The MX180 features a comprehensive array of digital audio inputs consisting of four optical, three coaxial and USB inputs, each of which accepts up to 24-bit/192kHz signals, as well as a robust balanced AES/EBU interface. There are also comprehensive analog audio connections; 2 balanced XLR inputs, 4 traditional RCA stereo connections as well as a MM Phono connection for a record player and a 7.1-channel RCA input for, for example, an older multi-standard player.

16 customizable channels with full RoomPerfect processing

A typical speaker configuration with the MX180 is, for example, 15.1- or 9.1.6-channel, but depending on your choice, four of the outputs can be used to double-amplify certain channels or drive several subwoofers.

To make every seat the best seat in your home theater, the MX180 features advanced RoomPerfect™ room correction technology that analyzes and adjusts each channel individually to compensate for acoustic issues in the listening space. A high-quality calibration microphone with floor stands is included. The MX180 combined with RoomPerfect gives you a home theater surround sound system with optimized frequency response, calibrated speaker volume and bass control that merges the speakers and subwoofers into one balanced whole. RoomPerfect allows a bewildering amount of freedom in choosing speakers and placement.

Without compromising sound quality and ease of use

The MX180 features the latest AD technology that maximizes the purity of analog sources with RoomPerfect processing. All analog and digital sources can be named to your liking to make the system easier to use. Volume levels can be matched to prevent disturbing changes in volume when changing sources. Bass and treble controls offer flexibility in sound fine-tuning. The MX180 also includes a two-channel Zone B control for sending stereo sound to another listening space.

The MX180 utilizes the latest technological advances in terms of processing power and runs cooler than previous McIntosh home theater processors. It has a very stable and intuitive user interface, which allows versatile customization and optimization of the system according to wishes. The MX180 naturally follows the timeless and timeless McIntosh look, including a black glass front panel, precise control knobs, stylish aluminum end caps, and long-life LED lighting in the logo and switches.

• Output voltage (harmonic distortion less than 0.005%): XLR 5 V, RCA 2.5 V
• Maximum output voltage: XLR 13 V (subwoofer 17 V), RCA 6.5 V (subwoofer 8.5 V)
• Power consumption in standby mode: less than 0.5 W
• HDMI connections: 5 inputs and 2 outputs
• 8K/60 and 4K120 Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10 & HLG
• 16-channel processing
• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X® Pro, Auro-3D® and IMAX Enhanced
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 44.5 x 19.4 x 49.53 cm (including feet, front panel buttons and rear panel connectors)
• Weight: 13.6 kg

Founded in 1949, McIntosh can be said to be the world's most legendary hi-fi equipment manufacturer. All McIntosh products offer the ultimate experience in music and movies. Our iconic blue Watt power meter is recognized worldwide as a symbol of quality sound. With the help of a McIntosh home stereo system or home theater, listeners can experience their own luxurious sound experience, the rooting of which bites into the body and mind is unparalleled.

McIntosh's flagship products are designed and handcrafted in our Binghamton, New York factory by a team of dedicated, long-time employees with a burning passion for music and the McIntosh legacy. Since its inception, McIntosh has played a significant part in the most important moments in music history and pop culture. From President Lyndon Johnson's commencement speech to Woodstock's famous "Wall of Sound" by the Grateful Dead; McIntosh hasn't just seen history, he's shaped it.