McIntosh MHA50 portable DAC amp announced

McIntosh has launched its first portable music playback device. Welcome the new handheld MHA50 Portable Decoding Amplifier.

The MHA50 brings the legendary McIntosh sound quality to headphones everywhere.

This new McIntosh device features a high-quality amplifier plus a high-performance 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) with high-res audio playback.

Furthermore, it offers conventionally wired connectivity for the ultimate sound quality, plus the cable-free convenience of Bluetooth.

Additionally, wired inputs are also catered for. Hook up your for Apple iOS devices, Mac and Windows computers, or Android devices.

Wireless connectivity is via Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX technology. This delivers the highest possible sound quality from Bluetooth-enabled sources.

MHA50 design

The smartphone-sized MHA50 is compact and lightweight. Its bevelled case fits comfortably in hands and pockets.

Featuring a sleek design with a glass front panel its touch-sensitive volume control knob is inspired by the classic knobs found on countless McIntosh products.

The MHA50 is built primarily from durable extruded aluminium. This material also benefits from noise-shielding properties to help block external interference.

Specification

A powerful 32-bit DAC decodes music files from almost any digital source giving an instant sound quality upgrade

The MHA50 supports hi-res audio (32-bit/192kHz, DSD256 and DXD384 files) plus asynchronous USB audio to minimise digital distortion.

It also packs a 3,000 mAh rechargeable battery. This provides up to six hours of Bluetooth playback from a single charge with even more time from wired connections.

Controls

Two gain settings allow the MHA50 to work with all types of headphones from small in-ear models to large over-ear designs. The device can drive headphones with impedances ranging from 8-600 ohms.

Furthermore, McIntosh’s proprietary Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) technology, as seen in its high-end hi-fi amplifiers, brings an optional dimensionality to music in a natural-sounding way.

Finally, audio is output via a gold-plated 3.5mm jack. This can also be used to connect to powered (active) desktop speakers, allowing the MHA50 to serve as a desktop DAC.

Pricing and availability

Orders can be placed now with authorised McIntosh dealers. Shipping expected in October (US) and November (UK). The MHA50 is priced at £895.

The device comes complete with three USB adapter cables. Additionally, it is bundled with a leather carrying case and a wall-mount charger with a USA plug, also adapters for Europe and Japan.