McIntosh XRT2.1K – Large floor-standing loudspeaker with an impressive presence

The McIntosh XRT2.1K is a high-end floor-standing loudspeaker for high-quality hi-fi and home theater systems. With a height of over two meters, it is not only a technical statement but also a striking component of the room. The loudspeaker system is designed as a full-range concept and aims for a generous, spatial reproduction with an unusually deep soundstage.

Line Array for a wide listening zone

The line array principle of the McIntosh XRT2.1K is designed to distribute sound evenly throughout the room. People near the speaker are not overwhelmed by excessive volume, and those sitting further away experience only minimal level drop.

Technologies in the McIntosh XRT2.1K

The McIntosh XRT2.1K incorporates a line array, 4-way loudspeaker technology, a full-range loudspeaker system, Nanocarbon Fiber/Nomex Honeycomb Long Throw Drivers, Aluminum–Magnesium Dome Midranges and Tweeters, an elaborately designed crossover network, as well as gold-plated Solid Cinch™ Speaker Binding Posts, Tri-Amping, Tri-Wiring, and Power Control.

Sound character and spatial imaging

The XRT2.1K is designed for a wide, smooth, and spatially stable reproduction. The construction utilizes a cylindrical wavefront that supports stable horizontal sound distribution and reduces unwanted reflections from the floor and ceiling.

Placement in the room

Placement has a clearly audible influence on the McIntosh XRT2.1K. For music systems, a setup is recommended where the loudspeakers and listening position form an equilateral or acute isosceles triangle. Proximity to walls, corners, floor, ceiling, and large objects can affect the bass range and imaging. There should be a clear area of at least 30 degrees to the left and right of the central axis in front of the loudspeaker. We recommend a minimum distance to the wall of about 50 cm. A greater distance can also positively influence the sound.

Connection and system integration

The XRT2.1K has three separate connection areas for SUBWOOFER, LOW, and MD/HIGH. This allows for different operating modes, including connection with one amplifier, two amplifiers, or three amplifiers. The gold-plated Solid Cinch™ loudspeaker terminals provide a secure hold for the loudspeaker cables.

Craftsmanship and Design

The McIntosh XRT2.1K combines brushed aluminum, black aluminum, and a surface with seven layers of high-gloss piano lacquer. The line array front adopts the classic McIntosh look with a black central section and silver aluminum end caps. Magnetically attached speaker covers with black knitted fabric and high-gloss frames are included. The plinth consists of machined aluminum and glass; four adjustable feet ensure firm contact with the floor.

Test results

High-Def Digest describes the XRT2.1K as combining a striking array design with very detailed sound, clean treble reproduction, rich mids, and deep bass. SoundStage! Hi-Fi highlights its clarity, effortlessness, detail, and clean reproduction even at high levels.

Specifications

General

• Product type: 4-way bass reflex floorstanding loudspeaker
• Dimensions W × H × D: 57.66 × 211.2 × 65.6 cm
• Weight: 160.2 kg
• Shipping weight: 212.2 kg
• Frequency range: 12 Hz – 45 kHz

Connections

• Speaker input terminals: 3 pairs for SUBWOOFER, LOW and MD/HIGH
• Tri-amping: possible
• Tri-wiring: possible
• Speaker connections: gold-plated Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts
• Power Control: IN and OUT
• Power Control connector: 3.5 mm stereo mini-phone plug
• Spade lug opening: at least 0.76 cm

Audio

• System type: Ported 4-Way Floor Standing
• Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
• Power Rating: 2,000 watts
• Maximum Power Handling: 2,100 watts
• Sound pressure / sensitivity: 90 dB
• Measurement: 2.8 V/1 m
• Crossover: 150 Hz, 450 Hz, 2.1 kHz

Drivers

• Total number of drivers: 81
• Woofers: 6 × 8 inches / 20.32 cm Nanocarbon Fiber/Nomex Honeycomb Long Throw
• Low Frequency Midranges: 2 × 6.5 inches / 16.51 cm Nanocarbon Fiber/Nomex Honeycomb Long Throw
• Upper Frequency Midranges: 28 × 2 inches / 5.08 cm Aluminum–Magnesium Dome
• Tweeters: 45 × ¾ inches / 1.91 cm Aluminum–Magnesium Dome

Frequency ranges of connection groups

• SUBWOOFER: 12 Hz – 150 Hz
• LOW: 150 Hz – 450 Hz
• MD/HIGH Midranges: 450 Hz – 2,100 Hz
• MD/HIGH Tweeters: 2,100 Hz – 45,000 Hz
  
  

Scope of delivery

• McIntosh XRT2.1K-R
• Cover
• Base
• Mounting accessories
• Device feet
• Documents