McIntosh has introduced a new headphone amplifier, the MHA150. A follow-up to the MHA100, the MHA150 features a new DAC that supports playback of DSD and DXD files. This headphone amp uses McIntosh's Autoformer technology to produce three impedance ranges of 8 to 40, 40 to 150, and 150 to 600 ohms to make it a good match with any headphone. The MHA150 has USB, MCT, optical/coaxial digital, and analog audio inputs. It will be available this month for $4,500.
From McIntosh
McIntosh is proud to announce the launch of the new MHA150 Headphone Amplifier. Handcrafted at our Binghamton, NY, factory, it combines the best-in-class audio performance of the legendary McIntosh Reference System with the latest in technological development.
The MHA150 Headphone Amplifier is a worthy successor to the critically acclaimed MHA100. The MHA150 contains the same feature set and performance standards but adds our new 2nd generation digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that provides support for DSD and DXD files to give access to the latest in digital music.
Like the MHA100, the MHA150 continues to take advantage of unique McIntosh technologies to create the best possible personal listening experience regardless of the headphones used. Our Autoformer technology found in our large mono and stereo amplifiers has been adapted to produce three headphone impedance ranges of 8-40, 40-150 and 150-600 ohms so that every headphone will receive the legendary McIntosh sound quality and performance.
For enjoying DSD and DXD files, the USB input accepts PCM signals up to 32-bit/384-kHz and supports DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256, along with DXD 352.8 kHz and DXD 384 kHz. Our proprietary MCT input has also been added to the MHA150; when paired with the MCT450 SACD/CD Transport, it offers a secure DSD connection for playback of the high-definition audio on SACDs.
For connecting digital devices, an optical and coaxial input are included, along with the USB and MCT inputs; two analog inputs are also available. Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) brings added dimension to the music in a natural sounding way but can be turned off depending on user preferences. The MHA150 is smaller than our other amplifiers, giving additional flexibility to locate it almost anywhere in a user's space. It's the same width as the MB50 Streaming Audio Player, and the two can be combined to start building a complete system.
The MHA150 is powerful and versatile enough to drive a pair of quality desktop or small bookshelf speakers via its 50-watt stereo speaker outputs. Our patented Power Guard technology is included and will prevent clipping that could damage the headphones or speakers. A five-step Bass Boost Control allows for further sound customization. The entire unit is housed in a beautiful polished stainless steel chassis that not only complements the classic glass front panel, knobs and brushed aluminum end caps, but virtually any room decor.
Pricing and Availability
The MHA150 is available to order now from authorized McIntosh dealers with shipping anticipated in September. Suggested retail price (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded): $4,500 USD.
Additional Resources
• McIntosh Announces New AV Processor and Play-Fi Components at HomeTheaterReview.com.
• McIntosh Unveils a Trio of Stereo Preamps at HomeTheaterReview.com.
