MCINTOSH MX150

Pre owned. In good condition. Shows minor signs of wear. Supplied with remote control, manual and original packaging.

7.1-channel surround audio/video processor designed to serve as the control centre of a high-end home cinema system. Introduced in 2010, it combines decoding of high-resolution Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio formats with the management of different audio and video sources, while also supporting two independent zones. Its architecture prioritises audio processing and system control, without incorporating advanced video processing features: HDMI signals are switched and passed through to the display without changing their resolution, while analogue video signals can be converted to HDMI.

The front panel features the brand’s distinctive design elements, including a glass surface, symmetrically arranged controls and a blue fluorescent display. LED lighting distributed through fibre-optic diffusers improves the visibility of the indicators and gives the unit its recognisable appearance. The display and dedicated indicators show information about volume, incoming and outgoing audio channels, the type of signal received and the operating status of the RoomPerfect room correction system.

Connectivity includes five HDMI 1.3 inputs and one output, together with an extensive range of analogue and digital connections. Video connections include Component, Composite and S-Video inputs and outputs, while the audio section features stereo RCA inputs, two pairs of balanced stereo XLR inputs, a 7.1-channel analogue multichannel input and nine digital inputs, comprising coaxial, optical and balanced AES/EBU connections. Audio outputs include RCA and XLR connections for the eight channels, including those intended for subwoofers, plus two auxiliary pairs that duplicate the front left and right channels. These auxiliary outputs feature configurable high-pass filters, which are also useful when setting up bi-amplified front speakers.

One of the MX150’s distinguishing features is the RoomPerfect system, developed by Lyngdorf Audio, which analyses the room’s acoustic characteristics through measurements taken at the main listening position and at other points in the room. Based on the collected data, the processor calculates correction filters and curves to compensate for the room’s influence while seeking to preserve the speakers’ original tonal balance. Digital signal processing also applies to analogue inputs, which are converted internally to digital format regardless of whether RoomPerfect correction is enabled.

System control is supported by a comprehensive set of features for integration with external devices. These include inputs for infrared sensors, data outputs for controlling McIntosh components and other compatible equipment, trigger inputs and outputs, and connections dedicated to power control. The RS-232 port enables integration with external automation systems, while the Ethernet connection provides access to a browser-based interface for configuring and managing the processor. A USB port allows users to back up their settings, while the firmware is stored on a CompactFlash card used for updates and servicing.

The interface is designed to simplify everyday operation, allowing users to select sources and manage the two listening zones. The supplied remote control features backlit buttons, while detailed information about audio and video signals, volume and RoomPerfect settings can be viewed through the dedicated on-screen display mode. The configuration options allow the processor’s operation to be adapted to the requirements of the system and the user’s preferences.

Combining surround sound decoding, room acoustic correction, extensive connectivity and automation features, the McIntosh MX150 is suited to sophisticated home cinema systems where centralised source management and component control are essential. Its design, focused primarily on audio processing and system integration, defines it as a processor intended for high-end multichannel installations.

Technical specifications

• Frequency response: 20 Hz–20 kHz (+0 / −0.5 dB) for left, right, left surround, right surround, left back surround and right back surround channels; 20 Hz–8 kHz (+0 / −0.5 dB) for subwoofer
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): 0.005% maximum from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz at rated output
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 96 dBA line level; 86 dBA phono input
• Rated output voltage: 2.5 V unbalanced; 5 V balanced
• Maximum output voltage: 6.5 V unbalanced outputs (8.5 V subwoofer); 13 V balanced outputs (17 V subwoofer)
• Output impedance: 75 Ω unbalanced; 100 Ω balanced
• Input sensitivity: 500 mV unbalanced and 1 V balanced line level; 5 mV MM (50 mV maximum)
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ line level; 47 kΩ and 65 pF MM phono input
• Gain: 14 dB line level; 54 dB phono
• Tone controls: Bass ±10 dB at 30 Hz; treble ±10 dB at 10,000 Hz
• Video inputs: HDMI, Component, Composite, S-Video
• Remote control: HR070
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 44.45 × 19.37 × 49.53 cm
• Weight: 14 kg