McIntosh MX180 AV processor

McIntosh Announces New MX180 AV Processor

McIntosh has revealed its new MX180 AV processor, which can be used at home to enjoy 4K and 8K video content via support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz on all seven Ultra-High-Speed HDMI ports (five inputs and two outputs).

Each HDMI port supports HDCP 2.3, 4:4:4 Colour, Rec. 2020, Dynamic Lip-sync, and 3D Video pass-through as well as enhanced features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), Quick Media Switching (QMS), and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)

Supporting numerous high dynamic range formats including HDR (static HDR), Dynamic HDR, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision (including low latency), the processor also includes 16 balanced audio outputs for popular 15.1 or 9.1.6 surround sound speaker configurations among others. Additionally, it is compatible with leading 3D surround sound formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro-3D.

McIntosh MX180 AV processor

The two HDMI outputs can simultaneously output one source material to two separate screens or can output different content from two different sources to two separate screens. One HDMI output features both Audio Return Channel (ARC) and Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) functionality.

The MX180 comes with RoomPerfect room correction technology to measure and adjust the audio output to compensate for the specific acoustic properties for the space. It also includes a variety of digital and analog inputs and outputs including a Moving Magnet phono input.

The MX180 features analog to digital convertor technology to maximize the audio quality of analog sources. Bass and treble controls offer further audio fine-tuning. The MX180 also has a two-channel Zone B output to send audio to a second zone in the house.

The MX180 uses the latest technological advancements in processing power to run cooler than previous McIntosh home theatre processors, says McIntosh, and has a simplified setup program that allows for customization and optimization based on specific home theatre and speaker needs. It comes with the iconic McIntosh design that includes a black glass front panel, control knobs, illuminated logo, and custom aluminum end caps. The MX180 can be paired with a variety of amplifiers and speakers to make up a complete home theatre system.

Orders for the MX180 can now be placed with authorized McIntosh dealers in both Canada and the U.S. It sells for an MSRP of US$17,000.