Posted Wed Sep 27, 2017 at 07:35 AM PDT by Steven Cohen
The amplifier is designed to improve the quality of portable music through headphones.
McIntosh has announced its latest audio component. The new MHA50 Portable Decoding Amplifier is set to start shipping in October for a suggested retail price of $700.
The amplifier features a sleek and light-weight design built primarily from durable extruded aluminum with a form factor similar to a smartphone. A glass front panel with a touch sensitive volume control knob reminiscent of the classic McIntosh knob found on several of the company's other products is integrated as well.
Under the hood, the MHA50 uses a high-performance 32-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), improving playback quality from almost any digital source. Likewise, the unit supports 32-bit/192kHz hi-res audio, DSD256 and DXD384 files, and asynchronous USB audio. A 3,000 mAh rechargeable battery is integrated as well, providing up to 6 hours of use on a single charge when connected through Bluetooth or even longer playback through a wired connection. Wired inputs for Apple iOS devices and Android devices compatible with USB On-The-Go technology are built-in, along with support for Mac and Windows computers. In addition, the amplifier can also wirelessly connect to playback deices via Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX technology.
Thanks to the device's two gain settings, the MHA50 has been designed to work with all headphone types, including small in-ear models and large over-ear studio models via a gold plated 3.5mm jack. The unit can drive headphones with impedances ranging from 8-600 ohms. An optional Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) setting is also offered to add dimension to music. In addition, the MHA50's output jack can connect to powered desktop speakers as well for stationary use as a desktop DAC.
The MHA50 Portable Decoding Amplifier includes three USB adapter cables, a leather carrying case, and a wall mount charger with USA plug and adapters for Europe and Japan.
Source: McIntosh
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