DIEHARD fans of McIntosh Labs product have another piece of gear they can add to their one-brand system – the MB25 Bluetooth transceiver, which replaces the earlier MB20. Yes, it will integrate seamlessly with non-McIntosh systems as well.
“Designed as a compact, standalone unit with a relatively small footprint, the MB25 requires no third-party apps for operation. Functioning as a transmitter/receiver, it boasts Class 1 Bluetooth technology, delivering unparalleled connectivity with audio equipment lacking Bluetooth compatibility,” McIntosh tells us.
The MB25 has a transmission range of about 48m, assisted by an external antenna, and guarantees optimal performance transmitting and receiving audio signals.
Upgrades from the previous model include an illuminated front glass panel that indicates signal rates and connection types. “The MB25 also offers the flexibility to select the desired input in transmit mode, giving you greater control over your audio experience. Finally, power control has been added so it can be easily turned on and off with the rest of your system.”
The MB25 features an array of inputs and outputs for diverse system configurations. Analogue connectivity options include both balanced and unbalanced stereo inputs and outputs. For digitally connecting it to your system, such as for use with an outboard DAC, it has both coaxial and optical inputs and outputs.
“The MB25 supports high-fidelity codecs such as Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) and Qualcomm aptX HD, ensuring uncompromised audio reproduction. Equipped with a high-performance 32-bit DAC for receiver mode and a premium ADC for transmitter mode, the MB25 maintains uncompromising sound quality and signal integrity.”
In receiver mode, the MB25 lets can stream audio from compatible Bluetooth devices, and then use the variety of output connections to play the audio through your sound system. In transmitter mode, music from physical media sources, such as CDs or vinyl records, can be streamed to Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers.
The MB25 will be available in July, retailing at US$600/€850/£850.
Id like to see how SQ compare to similarly priced Blusound dacstreamer albeit hardwired and ifi products
Thoughts ?
The Mac doesn’t require an app, which makes it superior to Bluesound in my opinion. Don’t know of any iFi product that’s comparable. But these are quite expensive.