McIntosh debuts gamer-friendly 8k AV processor

McIntosh has announced an 8k capable AV processor, the MX180, boasting advanced customisation and processing capabilities. With an eye to tomorrow's media rooms, the MX180 supports 8k/60Hz and 4k/120Hz on all seven of its HDMI ports (five inputs and two outputs).

Each HDMI supports HDCP 2.3; 4:4:4 Colour; Rec. 2020; Dynamic Lip-sync, Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM); Quick Frame Transport (QFT); Quick Media Switching (QMS) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)

Codec support covers Auro-3D, as well as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro. The brand’s RoomPerfect room correction technology is on hand to measure and adjust for room acoustics.

The MX180’s two HDMI outputs can simultaneously output source material to two separate screens, or output different content from two different sources to two separate screens. One HDMI output features both Audio Return Channel (ARC) and Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) functionality. The new model is also compatible with HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision.

Connections include a suite of digital and analogue inputs and outputs, plus a Moving Magnet phono input. With 16 balanced audio outputs, the processor can support 15.1 or 9.1.6 surround sound speaker configurations.

Volume levels can also be matched and bass and treble controls offer further control, while a two-channel Zone B output allows the device to send audio to a second zone.

McIntosh says its new processor runs cooler than previous McIntosh home theatre processors, and benefits from a simplified setup program that allows customisation based on specific home theatre and speaker needs.

The MX180 launches in the US first, with other territories to follow. It retails for £21,995. Distribution is via Fine Sounds UK (tel: 01592 744710).