The New MT2 Precision Turntable From McIntosh
McIntosh hasn’t slowed down or taken a breather with its steady release of new products in the past 6 months. The latest update from the audio behemoth takes aim at everyone’s favorite analog device. The new MT2 Precision Turntable will hit the streets next month for a cool $4k and is loaded with all the usual fixings including a classic McIntosh green glow across the logo and even underneath the platter.
While $4k may ruffle a few feathers as an entry-level idea, the MT2 is indeed the new entry point to McIntosh’s turntable line with the MT5 ($6.5k) and the MT10 ($9.5k) providing services upstream. The new table comes equipped with a moving coil cartridge, but McIntosh says the output is high enough to connect to either MC or moving magnet inputs on your phono preamp.
The 1″ deep platter is belt driven and made of balanced polyoxymethylene while an inner platter utilizes milled aluminum. The entire plate spins on a steel shaft in a sintered bronze bushing. The plinth is a wood base with acrylic plates to help catch any unwanted vibrations. Its enough to peak the interest of any turntable enthusiast, and still retains the classic McIntosh look to round out the collection of any collector or fan of the iconic brand.
Preorders can be placed through McIntosh’s dealer network, more details and specs via the press release after the jump.
“McIntosh Announces MT2 Precision Turntable
Binghamton, NY – March 8, 2018 – McIntosh, the global leader in prestigious home entertainment and ultimate-quality audio for over 65 years, is proud to announce the MT2 Precision Turntable.
The McIntosh MT2 Precision Turntable combines the latest in turntable technology and design to deliver both superb performance and accurate playback. A full complement of features allows for all recordings to be reproduced with flawless realism. Its advanced electronic and mechanical design will give many years of smooth, trouble-free operation. A subtle green glow emanates from under the platter and the outside edges of the plinth for a touch of refined ambiance and connection to the McIntosh design aesthetic.
The MT2 plays both 33-1/3 and 45 rpm records and is virtually ready to use out of the box as tracking force, anti-skate force, cartridge overhang and arm height are all preset from the factory for maximum performance. The remaining setup steps are simple, allowing the user to be enjoying their vinyl in no time.
The MT2 comes with a moving coil cartridge that has a high enough output to make it compatible with not only moving coil phono inputs but also moving magnet inputs. The cartridge’s high impedance and high output voltage ensures noise free musical reproduction. This unique cartridge design features an alloy cantilever and an elliptical diamond stylus with exceptional tracking capability. The tonearm is constructed from dural-aluminum with special damping materials and is light weight yet highly rigid. The noise free vertical bearings feature two precision ceramic surfaces with damping fluid; the horizontal bearing is a gimballed sapphire design.
The belt driven, solid black outer platter is made from a special dynamically balanced polyoxymethylene (POM) and is over 1” thick. This heftiness helps to both resist and absorb external vibrations that can cause noise during playback; its large mass also provides the perfect flywheel action for stable playback speed. The inner platter is made of CNC-precision milled aluminum. The platters rotate on a polished and tempered steel shaft in a sintered bronze bushing. The DC motor is driven by an external voltage-stabilized power supply and is completely decoupled from the chassis, isolating the record from any mechanical interference. Its sturdy plinth has a resonance optimized and highly compressed wood base with black lacquer finish, while the top and middle acrylic plates help absorb unwanted vibrations.
A clear, contoured dust cover is included. The MT2 turntable is compatible with a variety of McIntosh phono preamplifiers, stereo preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers and home theater processors with phono inputs.
Pricing and Availability
Orders for the MT2 can now be placed with Authorized McIntosh dealers with shipping expected to begin in April.
Suggested retail price (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded): $4,000 USD
About McIntosh
Founded in 1949, McIntosh Laboratory is known for offering distinguished quality audio products, superior customer service and the ultimate experience in music and film. All McIntosh products are handcrafted at the Binghamton, NY factory by over 150 employees with a passion for music and the McIntosh heritage. McIntosh continues to define the ultimate home entertainment experience for discriminating consumers around the world, with the iconic “McIntosh Blue” Watt Meters globally recognized as a symbol of quality audio. Since its inception, McIntosh has been powering some of the most important moments in music history and pop culture. From President Lyndon Johnson’s inauguration speech to Woodstock to the famous Grateful Dead “Wall of Sound,” McIntosh has not only witnessed history, it has shaped it. With McIntosh, customers have the ability to create their own premium audio experience – and truly live their music. Visit www.mcintoshlabs.com to learn more.”