Pure McIntosh setup. Sounds amazing. The only issue is OEM cable which is too long but looks blessing.

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McIntosh headphones tube setup

United States

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc., often referred to simply as McIntosh, is an esteemed American brand renowned for its high-quality audio equipment. Founded in 1949 in Binghamton, New York, McIntosh has established itself as a pioneer in the high-fidelity audio industry. The brand is synonymous with enduring build quality, aesthetic elegance, and unparalleled sound performance, making it a choice of audiophiles and music enthusiasts worldwide.

Known for its distinctive design, McIntosh products feature signature black glass front panels, aluminum end caps, and the iconic "McIntosh Blue" watt meters, which have become a symbol of audio excellence. Their product range encompasses a wide array of audio equipment, including amplifiers, preamplifiers, speakers, turntables, and other audio accessories, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail and acoustic perfection.

McIntosh's dedication to producing high-quality sound reproduction is evident in their use of advanced technologies and precision engineering. Their products are often the result of extensive research and development, ensuring that they not only meet but exceed industry standards.

In addition to sound quality, McIntosh is committed to the longevity and durability of its products. Many McIntosh units from decades past are still in use today, a testament to their build quality and the company's commitment to sustainability through longevity.

Whether for home audio systems, professional studios, or luxury car audio, McIntosh provides an audio experience that is both immersive and emotionally engaging, offering a level of performance that is as close to the original recording as possible. Their legacy and ongoing innovation continue to set the standard in high-end audio, making McIntosh a prestigious and revered name in the world of hi-fi audio systems.

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McIntosh

The McIntosh MHP1000 is a closed-back headphone designed to deliver high-quality audio reproduction. It features a clear and precise sound signature, which some reviewers have noted as slightly bright, especially in the high frequencies. While it is appreciated for its ability to reproduce details and clarity on well-recorded tracks, opinions vary on its overall value compared to competitors in the same price range. Some users argue that its build quality feels plasticy and not as robust as expected at its price point, which is around $2000. The design incorporates technology similar to that of other high-end brands, and while it has received praise for specific music genres like traditional jazz, it may not cater to those who prefer a more bass-forward sound or a broader soundstage. Reviewers have compared it to other headphones, suggesting alternatives like Beyerdynamic and Audeze for different listening preferences.

MHP1000

The McIntosh MHA200 is a compact vacuum tube headphone amplifier designed to enhance the listening experience for headphone enthusiasts. It features a compact footprint of 6-1/8" (15.6cm) wide by 9-1/8" (23.2cm) deep, making it easy to integrate into various setups. The MHA200 is powered by a pair of 12AT7 and 12BH7A dual triode vacuum tubes, providing low distortion and a rich audio experience. It employs Unity Coupled Circuit output transformers, a technology that has been at the core of McIntosh products since its inception in 1949, ensuring high-quality sound delivery. The amplifier supports a wide range of headphone impedances, with four selectable ranges from 32 to 1,000 Ohms at a power output of 500mW. It includes various connectivity options such as balanced inputs and outputs, and multiple headphone output configurations, catering to different headphone types. Additionally, it features a polished stainless steel chassis that not only serves a functional purpose but also adds aesthetic appeal. The MHA200 is equipped with volume and LOAD controls for optimal listening personalization.

MHA200

The McIntosh D150 is a digital audio preamplifier that combines advanced digital processing technologies with the classic McIntosh design ethos. It features multiple digital inputs including USB, coaxial, and optical connections, allowing for flexibility in source selection. The D150 includes an integrated DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) that is capable of handling high-resolution audio files, supporting formats up to DSD64 and PCM resolution of 24-bit/192kHz. Its design includes a 6.35mm headphone output with a dedicated headphone amplifier built-in, and it also features balanced and unbalanced outputs for connecting to power amplifiers or active speakers. The preamplifier is housed in a sleek chassis with a distinctive glass front panel and illuminated logo, characteristic of McIntosh’s aesthetic. The D150 is often praised for its user-friendly interface, allowing easy navigation through its various settings and inputs via an intuitive remote control, as well as an app that can facilitate control from mobile devices. With its mix of modern technology and classic McIntosh styling, the D150 aims to appeal to audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

D150

FiiO unveils the FX17, a flagship in-ear headphone that pushes the boundaries of portable audio. Each earpiece is equipped with an impressive 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic driver made from a lithium-magnesium alloy, four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, and eight Sonion electrostatic drivers. This hybrid setup is designed to deliver a comprehensive frequency response from 8 Hz to 40 kHz, ensuring detailed and balanced sound across the spectrum.

To optimize performance, FiiO has integrated a five-band electronic and acoustic crossover within the FX17. This sophisticated crossover design ensures each driver operates at its peak, maintaining a consistent impedance curve that enhances compatibility with a wide range of audio sources. Additionally, the patented FiiO S.Turbo technology is implemented to boost the bass response, providing a deeper and more engaging low-end without sacrificing clarity in the higher frequencies.

The FX17 boasts a minimalist yet premium build, featuring earcups crafted from pure titanium. These earcups are hand-polished and treated with vapor-phase deposition to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. The ergonomically curved design, combined with a precise 10-degree nozzle angle, ensures long-lasting comfort during extended listening sessions. This attention to detail in the design not only enhances durability but also maintains an ideal fit, even with the densely packed driver configuration.

Connectivity is handled through an 8-conductor hybrid cable that incorporates gold, silver, and copper conductors. This cable supports MMCX connectors and includes three interchangeable adapters: a standard 3.5mm jack, a balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn, and a USB Type-C with an integrated DAC capable of decoding PCM streams up to 32-bit/384 kHz. The FX17 package also includes 22 pairs of eartips, covering a variety of sizes and materials to ensure the best possible seal and personalized fit for every user.

Priced at $1,499.99 USD, the FiiO FX17 is now available for purchase. With its advanced driver architecture, meticulous build quality, and versatile connectivity options, the FX17 sets a new standard for high-end in-ear headphones, catering to audiophiles seeking unparalleled sound performance and comfort.

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FiiO FX17 Flagship In-Ear Headphones Revolutionize Portable Audio

Audiolab has introduced the 6000A MkII, an enhanced version of its well-regarded entry-level amplifier, set to launch in April at £699 (approximately $900 / AU$1,435). This latest iteration incorporates advanced technologies from Audiolab’s flagship 7000 and 9000 Series models, effectively bridging premium performance with affordability.

A significant upgrade in the 6000A MkII is the integration of the ES9038Q2M ESS Sabre DAC, a step up from the previous ES9018K2M chip used in the original 6000A. This new DAC is complemented by a tailored Class A circuit, optimized for enhanced digital processing and audio fidelity. Additionally, the amplifier boasts improved Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with support for the hi-res aptX HD codec, and the inclusion of HDMI ARC expands its compatibility with modern TV and AV setups.

The analogue circuitry has not been overlooked, featuring an upgraded Class AB amplification system supported by a robust 200VA toroidal transformer. This enhancement increases the maximum current from 9A to 11A, allowing the amp to drive a broader range of speakers more effectively while maintaining the 50W per channel output into 8 ohms. The power supply layout has been meticulously designed to minimize interference, ensuring a cleaner and more accurate sound reproduction.

Versatility is a key feature of the 6000A MkII, offering three operational modes: integrated, Pre-Power, and Pre Mode. These modes allow the amplifier to function as a combined preamp and power amp, a standalone power amp, or a dedicated DAC and preamp, respectively. Additional connectivity options include two coaxial and two optical inputs, RCA stereo connections, and a moving magnet phono input, catering to both analogue and digital sources.

With its sleek metal chassis and familiar control layout, the Audiolab 6000A MkII maintains the aesthetic appeal of its predecessor while delivering substantial performance enhancements. Audiophiles can expect improved clarity, focus, and authority in their audio experience, positioning the 6000A MkII as a competitive choice in its price segment against models like the Arcam A5 and Rega Brio Mk7.

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Audiolab Introduces the 6000A MkII, an Advanced Audiophile Amplifier

Valve is gearing up to unveil Deckard, the highly anticipated successor to the Valve Index, with initial leaks revealing promising yet cautious specifications. According to recent reports, the Deckard prototype, known as POC-F, is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) chipset. While this processor isn’t Qualcomm’s latest flagship, it offers a solid foundation, potentially delivering around 25% better performance and efficiency compared to the Snapdragon XR Gen 2 used in current competitors like the Pico 4 Ultra and Quest 3.

The Deckard headset features dual 2.8-inch JDI LCD panels, each boasting a resolution of 2160 × 2160 pixels and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. This setup is designed to provide crisp and smooth visuals, essential for an immersive VR experience. Additionally, the headset is equipped with advanced tracking capabilities, including eye movement cameras and four SLAM cameras, ensuring precise motion tracking and enhancing overall user interaction within virtual environments.

Early indications suggest that the controllers, codenamed 'Roy', will complement the headset’s capabilities, offering intuitive control and seamless integration. The use of an ARM-based architecture in Deckard points to a design focused on both performance and energy efficiency, which is crucial for extended VR sessions. However, as the specifications are derived from a proof-of-concept prototype, there remains uncertainty regarding the final hardware configuration and whether it will undergo significant changes before release.

Valve is targeting a launch price of approximately $1,200 for Deckard, positioning it slightly higher than the original Valve Index. This pricing reflects the advanced technology and enhanced features expected to be part of the final product. Despite the promising specifications, there is still no guarantee that Deckard will meet all expectations or confirm its presence in the market by the end of the year.

As the VR community eagerly awaits further developments, the Deckard prototype signifies Valve’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of virtual reality. With a potential release slated for late 2025, enthusiasts are keen to see how Deckard will stack up against existing headsets and whether it will deliver the next level of immersive experiences that Valve is renowned for.

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Valve Deckard Prototype: A Leap Forward in VR Technology

Apple is set to enhance the AirPods Max lineup with a significant firmware update arriving next month, introducing lossless audio support and ultra-low latency capabilities. Since their release in 2020, AirPods Max have been favored for their wireless over-ear design and robust noise cancellation, but lacked the ability to decode high-resolution audio tracks. The forthcoming update changes this landscape by enabling 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio, accessible through a wired USB-C connection.

This update leverages a built-in DAC within the USB-C cable, distinguishing it from competitors that utilize external dongle DACs to unlock hi-res audio functionalities. While this provides a streamlined solution within the Apple ecosystem, it caps the maximum resolution at 24-bit/48kHz, falling short of other luxury headphones like Focal Bathys and Bowers & Wilkins Px8, which support up to 24-bit/192kHz. The decision to integrate the DAC into the cable rather than the headphones themselves highlights Apple's approach to maintaining a sleek design while enhancing audio performance.

In addition to enhanced audio fidelity, the firmware introduces ultra-low latency performance, reducing lag to align audio seamlessly with onscreen action. This improvement is particularly beneficial for gaming and video consumption, ensuring that audio remains synchronized with visual elements. However, it's important to note that these advancements are confined to wired connections, leaving wireless playback over Bluetooth without enhancements in both fidelity and latency.

For music producers, the update offers new possibilities by integrating seamlessly with professional workflows on platforms like Logic Pro. This enables high-fidelity sound creation and mixing, allowing creators to utilize Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking throughout their entire production process. Despite these enhancements, alternatives like Audeze Maxwell provide comparable features at a lower price point, offering musicians and audio engineers additional options.

The free firmware update will be available in April for devices running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4. AirPods Max remain priced at $549 in various colors, with an optional USB-C to 3.5 mm audio cable available for $39, expanding connectivity options for diverse audio sources. This update reinforces AirPods Max's position in the competitive wireless headphone market, catering to both audiophiles and professionals seeking enhanced audio performance without compromising on design and convenience.

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Apple Announces Lossless Audio Update for AirPods Max

Xiaomi has unveiled the MIJIA Smart Audio Glasses 2, marking a significant advancement in wearable audio technology. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the latest model boasts a redesigned frame that prioritizes comfort and durability. With temple thickness reduced to 5mm—a 26% decrease at the narrowest point and 30% at the widest—the glasses now weigh only 26.5 grams. This lightweight construction, combined with a super-flexible piano steel hinge capable of withstanding 15,000 bends, ensures prolonged wear without discomfort.

The audio performance of the MIJIA Smart Audio Glasses 2 has been substantially enhanced. Equipped with four microphones and optimized acoustic structures, the glasses deliver increased volume and more effective noise suppression. This setup not only improves the listening experience but also ensures crystal-clear voice calls. An advanced anti-leakage membrane and inverse sound wave technology work in tandem to minimize sound leakage, providing privacy during conversations without compromising audio quality.

Technical advancements extend to the device's functionality and battery life. Users can effortlessly record voice notes directly through the glasses, with recordings stored in the device's memory for easy access. The IPX4 rating offers protection against moisture, making the glasses suitable for various environments. Battery performance has been a standout feature, offering up to 12 hours of music playback and an impressive 12 days of standby time. Additionally, the 2C magnetic charging technology enables a full recharge in just one hour, with a quick 10-minute charge providing up to four hours of listening time.

The MIJIA Smart Audio Glasses 2 are available in five distinct frame styles, including metal aviator and deep-space titanium, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. Priced at 999 yuan (approximately $140), the glasses are set to launch on March 26, 2025, via the Xiaomi Youpin platform. This release underscores Xiaomi's commitment to merging sleek design with robust audio capabilities, positioning the MIJIA Smart Audio Glasses 2 as a compelling choice for tech enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.

By integrating enhanced design elements, superior audio technology, and extended battery life, the MIJIA Smart Audio Glasses 2 offer a comprehensive upgrade in the smart audio glasses market. These advancements reflect a keen understanding of user needs, delivering a product that balances functionality with style.

McIntosh headphones tube setup

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