The New Introduction from McIntosh Bridges the Gap Between Streaming Convenience and Audio Excellence.
June 13, 2024 – Legendary HiFi manufacturer McIntosh Laboratory introduces the MB25 Bluetooth Receiver. While streaming music from a smartphone to a home audio system via Bluetooth is highly convenient, many Bluetooth-enabled sound systems fall short of providing the premium sound quality needed to fully do a cherished music collection justice. The MB25 Bluetooth Receiver allows discerning audio enthusiasts to seamlessly integrate Bluetooth streaming into almost any high-end home audio system, regardless of whether it includes McIntosh products.
The MB25 enhances the listening experience, transforming any audio system into a versatile home entertainment hub. It functions as both a receiver and transmitter, compatible with Bluetooth streaming devices and physical media sources like CDs and vinyl records. This makes it an ideal choice for audiophiles with vintage analog stereos or modern digital systems.
Designed as a compact, standalone unit with a small footprint, the MB25 requires no third-party apps for operation, ensuring ease of use. It features Class 1 Bluetooth technology, offering exceptional connectivity for audio equipment without Bluetooth capability. With a transmission range of up to 150 feet (45.7 meters) and an external antenna, the MB25 ensures optimal performance for both transmitting and receiving audio signals.
The successor to the popular MB20, the MB25 retains all the MB20 features while introducing enhancements for an elevated user experience. Notable upgrades include:
- An illuminated front glass panel that provides insights into audio signal rates and connection types.
- Flexibility to select the desired input in transmit mode, giving users greater control over their audio experience.
- Power Control so the MB25 can be easily turned on and off with the rest of a McIntosh audio system.
Technical Details and Key Features
Abundant Connectivity: Remarkably versatile, the MB25 features an array of inputs and outputs to allow for diverse system configurations, including:
- Analog connectivity options, such as balanced and unbalanced stereo inputs and outputs.
- For use with an outboard Digital-to-Analog Convertor (DAC), it has both coaxial and optical inputs and outputs2 to digitally connect it to an audio system.
Bluetooth 5.0 Technology: Leveraging Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the MB25 supports high-fidelity codecs such as Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) and Qualcomm aptX HD, ensuring uncompromised audio reproduction. Equipped with a high-performance 32-bit DAC for receiver mode and a premium Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) for transmitter mode, the MB25 maintains uncompromising sound quality and signal integrity.
Ultimate Versatility: Receive Or Transmit
As a transceiver, the MB25 can function as either a Bluetooth Receiver or Transmitter at any given time, (but not simultaneously) by simply setting the switch on the back panel to the proper setting for the desired usage.
In Receiver mode, users can stream audio from compatible Bluetooth devices to the MB25, and then use the variety of output connections to play the audio through their sound systems. Alternatively, in Transmitter mode, users can stream the music from physical media sources, such as CDs or vinyl records, to Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers. For multi-system integration within the home, the MB25 offers a convenient solution to enable wireless audio distribution between systems with ease by simply connecting an MB25 to each system. In fact, the MB20 can be used in conjunction with an MB25 to achieve a multi-room, multi-system configuration.
Elegant Design
- Encased in a sleek, custom aluminum chassis with a black glass front panel with illuminated logo, the MB25 exudes sophistication.
- Designed for seamless integration with both McIntosh and non-McIntosh systems, the MB25 includes a wall mount power supply with adapters for global compatibility.3
Availability and Pricing
The MB25 Bluetooth Receiver will be available in July through authorized McIntosh dealers with an MSRP $600 USD / 850€ / 850£.