MP1100

The McIntosh MP1100 is a phono preamplifier designed primarily for analogue audio, with support for new records and early vinyl pressings. Its equalisation is McIntosh’s most accurate to date, and the fully balanced vacuum tube phono stage uses 4 12AX7A valves, with 2 valves per channel.

There are 3 sets of RCA phono inputs for multiple turntables or tonearms, with XLR connectors available on 1 input. Each phono input allows resistance adjustment across 7 settings and capacitance adjustment across 8 settings. Profiles are pre-programmed for Moving Coil and Moving Magnet cartridges, as well as the McIntosh MT10 and MT5 turntables. A further 5 fully customisable profiles can be assigned to any phono input.

The available analogue equalisation curves are RIAA, LP, NAB, AES and 78. The MP1100 also includes a Rumble Filter to help remove noise introduced during the recording process, and a Scratch Filter to help restore records that have become worn through frequent playback or have some damage. Gain is adjustable from 40dB to 64dB, while a Mono setting supports playback of mono recordings.

For other source components, the McIntosh MP1100 provides 2 balanced and 2 unbalanced high-level inputs. Connection to the rest of an audio system is provided by 2 balanced and 2 unbalanced stereo outputs. It can be used with any preamplifier, integrated amplifier or home theatre processor that includes volume control.

Optical, coaxial and USB digital outputs are also included. These outputs are fixed at 24 bits and can be set to 96kHz or 192kHz. With a suitably configured conversion programme, the USB output can be used to rip albums to a computer. A digital output clipping indicator identifies distortion caused by loud sections during recording, allowing the settings to be adjusted when creating digital versions of albums.

The dual mono design addresses noise by electrically and mechanically isolating the left and right audio channels, while the power supplies are electronically separated. The MP1100 can be paired with McIntosh equipment including the C1100 Vacuum Tube Preamplifier, which also uses a dual mono design. The 2 units share polished stainless steel and hairline brushed black Titanium stainless steel chassis finishes. Classic McIntosh design details complete the MP1100.