When the original McIntosh MB20 Bluetooth 5 Transceiver was launched, we pointed out the dangers of these products sooner or later becoming obsolete. For this reason, audioXpress praised the fact that, as a leading brand in prestigious home entertainment and ultimate-quality audio for over 70 years, McIntosh Laboratory understood the need to keep a Bluetooth transceiver as a separate component. The original McIntosh MB20, with its retail price of US $500 could even become "a nice paperweight with the McIntosh logo," and still be worth the price.
For reasons that we suspect have more to do with component availability, McIntosh decided to launch the MB25 as a replacement. The successor to the MB20, with the ability to function as either a receiver or transmitter, the MB25 is a very similar compact, standalone unit with a relatively small footprint, and requiring no third-party apps for operation.
It boasts Class 1 Bluetooth technology, delivering unparalleled connectivity with audio equipment lacking Bluetooth compatibility. With a transmission range of up to 150 feet (45.7 meters) and enhanced by an external antenna, the MB25 guarantees optimal performance for both transmitting and receiving audio signals. The actual range of Bluetooth Class 1 technology may be affected by physical obstacles as well as the performance of devices with which the MB25 is intended to connect, particularly Class 2 devices.
As McIntosh explains, the MB25 retains all the MB20 features while introducing enhancements and upgrades that 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.
The MB25 features an array of inputs and outputs to allow for diverse system configurations, including analog, balanced and unbalanced stereo inputs and outputs. For use with an outboard DAC, the MB25 has both coaxial and optical inputs and outputs to digitally connect it to an audio system. Important to note that the MB25 cannot be used as a stand-alone DAC.
Leveraging Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the MB25 supports the best codec options currently available for Bluetooth Classic, including AAC and Qualcomm aptX HD. It is equipped with a high-performance 32-bit DAC for receiver mode and a premium analog-to-digital converter for transmitter mode.
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 multiroom, multi-system configuration.
The MB25 Bluetooth Transceiver will be available from July 2024 through authorized McIntosh dealers. Designed for seamless integration with both McIntosh and non-McIntosh systems, the MB25 includes a wall mount power supply with adapters for global compatibility. Encased in a custom aluminum chassis with a black glass front panel with illuminated logo, the MB25 exudes sophistication. Not bad for an MSRP of USD $600 USD / EUR €850.
www.mcintoshlabs.com
