The main feature of the McIntosh MB50 network player is that it supports the DTS Play-Fi protocol, receiving content over a standard Wi-Fi network. The Play-Fi version, released in January 2017, provides lossless digital audio at up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution. This interface is already actively used by some streaming services, Internet stations and hardware manufacturers, and it is possible that in two or three years it will displace Bluetooth AptX HD from the market.
The player plays mp3, m4a, FLAC and WAV files, as well as music from external drives via wired DLNA 1.5 and UPnP protocols, but this will require a USB-Ethernet adapter, which is not included in the package. For reliable wireless communication, the McIntosh MB50 has two external antennas.
Of course, it provides reception of Internet stations and high-quality streaming from streaming services Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer and many others.
External sources are connected via optical, coaxial and analog linear RCA inputs. The set of output terminals is the same, plus a pair of balanced XLRs. Accordingly, the signal can be easily sent digitally to an external DAC or power amplifier via a balanced or conventional line. There is a 6.3mm headphone jack on the front panel. Thus, the McIntosh MB50 is a self-contained device that can be used as a streamer, DAC and pre-amplifier with real McIntosh quality.
The player is made in a compact case with a width of 292 millimeters. The front panel is laconic, there are no dial indicators or branded chrome handles. When turned on, the logo of a rich emerald hue lights up. Adjust the volume and select the source by pressing the corresponding buttons. In addition, the kit includes a remote control, and from the manufacturer’s website you can download a mobile application for Apple, Android devices or a computer running Windows.
Specifications McIntosh MB50
Functions: network player, DAC, Internet radio receiver, headphone amplifier
Frequency range (+0/-0.5 dB): 20 – 20000 Hz
THD: 0.005%
Dynamic range: 98 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB
Output voltage balanced/unbalanced: 12/6 V RMS
Output impedance: <200 ohms
Input and output data format: PCM up to 24 bit/192 kHz
File formats: mp3, m4a, AAC, WAV, FLAC |
Remote control: standard remote control, mobile applications for iOS/Android
Analog inputs: stereo RCA and XLR
Digital inputs: coaxial, optical, USB
Outputs: analog: stereo RCA and XLR
Network: Ethernet, DTS Play-Fi, Wi-Fi
Service interfaces: USB, IR IN
Dimensions (W x H x D): 292 x 89 x 394 mm
Weight: 3.9 kg
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