Bluetooth Streaming for High-Quality Hi-Fi Systems

The McIntosh MB25 Bluetooth Transceiver enables existing audio systems for wireless music streaming. Music from smartphones, cloud accounts, or preferred streaming services can be conveniently integrated into a McIntosh or non-McIntosh Hi-Fi system. The MB25 is particularly interesting for high-quality systems that offer excellent sound but do not yet have their own Bluetooth function.

Receive or Send – Flexible Use

As a transceiver, the MB25 works either as a Bluetooth Receiver or as a Bluetooth Transmitter. In receiver mode, it receives audio signals from compatible Bluetooth devices and transmits them to the system. In transmitter mode, it sends music from connected sources, such as CD or turntable setups, to Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers. Both operating modes are not available simultaneously but are selected via the rear panel.

Everyday Range

The McIntosh MB25 uses Bluetooth Class 1 and achieves a transmission range of up to 45.7 m under ideal conditions. In practice, the actual range depends on spatial conditions, walls, furniture, and the connected Bluetooth devices – especially when counterparts with a lower Bluetooth class are used.

Versatile Connections for Different Systems

The MB25 offers analog and digital connectivity, allowing it to be integrated into many system configurations. Balanced XLR connections, unbalanced RCA connections, as well as coaxial and optical digital connections enable integration into classic and modern Hi-Fi environments. The MB25 can also be connected to an external digital-to-analog converter but cannot be used as a standalone DAC.

Helpful Information Directly on the Front

The illuminated glass front displays signal rates and connection types. In transmit mode, the desired input can be selected directly on the front. In addition, Power Control supports integration into suitable McIntosh systems, allowing the MB25 to be switched on and off together with the system.

Technologies in the McIntosh MB25

The McIntosh MB25 uses Bluetooth 5.0 and supports A2DP, SBC, AAC, Qualcomm aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Low Latency. This makes the Bluetooth Transceiver suitable for music streaming, Hi-Fi integration, Bluetooth Receiver operation, and Bluetooth Transmitter operation. In receiver mode, an integrated DAC is used; in transmitter mode, an analog-to-digital converter. Analog XLR and RCA connections, as well as digital coaxial and optical connections, make the MB25 a versatile interface between classic audio technology and wireless playback.

Compact Design with McIntosh Character

The aluminum housing, black glass front, and illuminated McIntosh logo reflect the brand's typical design language. Due to its compact design, the MB25 requires little space and can be unobtrusively integrated into existing systems.

Specifications

General

• Product Type: Bluetooth Transceiver
• Model: McIntosh MB25
• Operating Modes: Bluetooth Receiver or Bluetooth Transmitter, not simultaneously
• Area of Application: McIntosh and non-McIntosh home audio/HiFi systems
• Bluetooth Class: Class 1
• Range: up to 45.7 m under ideal conditions; depends on obstacles and connected devices
• Operation: no third-party app required
• Front: illuminated glass front with display for signal rate and connection type
• Housing: aluminum chassis with black glass front and illuminated logo
• Usage: Indoors
• Dimensions W × H × D: 24.64 cm; Height 6.35 cm; Depth 10.01 cm
• Shipping Dimensions W × H × D: 30.48 × 10.16 × 20.32 cm
• Additional Height with Antenna Upright: 3.43 cm
• Weight: 1.2 kg
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 kg

Bluetooth and Audio

• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Supported Protocols/Codecs: A2DP, SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Low Latency, aptX HD
• Digital Input Format: PCM
• Digital Input Sample Rate: up to 24 bit / 192 kHz
• Digital Output Format: 24 bit / 96 kHz
• Digital Output Sample Rate: 96 kHz
• Analog Input and Output: maximum 2.5 Vrms
• DAC: 32-bit DAC for Receiver Mode
• ADC: Analog-to-Digital Converter for Transmitter Mode

Connections

• Balanced Input: 1 × XLR
• Balanced Output: 1 × XLR
• Unbalanced Input: 1 × RCA
• Unbalanced Output: 1 × RCA
• Digital Coaxial Input: 1
• Digital Coaxial Output: 1
• Digital Optical Input: 1
• Digital Optical Output: 1
• Power Control Input: 1
• Power Control Output: 1
• Power Connection: USB-C, DC 5 V / 2.4 A
• Antenna Connection: available

Operation and Functions

• RX/TX Button: Switching between Bluetooth Receiver and Bluetooth Transmitter
• Input Selection in Transmitter Mode: front-mounted
• Pair Button: available
• Receiver Mode Indicator: blue LED
• Transmitter Mode Indicator: green LED
• Memory in Receiver Mode: up to six previously paired devices
• Memory in Transmitter Mode: one device
  
  

Scope of Delivery

• McIntosh MB25
• Bluetooth Antenna
• Power Supply
• USB Cable
• Documents

• Broschüre
• Anleitung I
• Anleitung II