(February 6, 2023) McIntosh is a brand known for its uncompromising two-channel prowess, bubbling with power galore, and an unmistakable green glow that's universally linked to its iconic preamp and amplifier designs. That's not to say the company hasn't dabbled in the world of all-in-one AV receivers, but it's been a hot minute since a new model has been released. Building upon the MHT100 and MHT200 models first launched just after the turn of the century, McIntosh's all-new MHT300 arrives loaded with advanced technologies designed to bring surround and immersive home theater experiences to life.
The MHT300 is billed as an "uncompromising 7.2 channel home theater powerhouse," that's capable of natively driving 7.2 and 5.2.2 channel arrays. And if more speakers are desired, onboard processing and outboard amplification can elevate performance to 7.2.4 standards, which allows the MHT300 to command a respectable immersive experience. Power-wise, its capable of delivering 120 Watts per channel at 8 ohms, with 4 ohm loads allowing output to increase to 150 Watts per channel. Those are numbers that McIntosh is quick to tout as "all channels driven," while downplaying its competition's typical 2-channel output specs. Overall power is delivered using individual amplifier modules that can be configured to suit a wide variety of speaker configurations, and McIntosh suggests its MI254 4-Channel Amplifier as the perfect external solution for expanding performance from seven to 11 channels.
Of course, no McIntosh amp product is complete without the company's Power Guard signal overload technology, which prevents overdriving or damaging your speakers. Owners can also glean confidence from McIntosh's Sentry Monitor short-circuit protection circuit that disengages the output stage should current ever approach unsafe operating levels.
For immersive decoding, the MHT300 offers access to both Dolby Atmos and DTS-X, which leaves Auto-3D off the table. And for a bit of old school tech, tunes can be sourced from the onboard FM tuner.
Video-wise, a limited 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz HDMI 2.1a input/output configuration delivers four IN and one OUT. Those ports include compatibility with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG high dynamic range, along with 18Gbps of bandwidth, Rec. 2020 color and 4:4:4 color spacing with 3D video pass-through.
And, as a true cherry-on-top, McIntosh has joined forces with Dirac Research to deliver Dirac Live room correction. Further set-up is expedited by a computer interface that allows for pre-configuration prior to installation, and full backup for emergency situations.
Priced at $8,000, the MHT300 Home Theater Receiver is expected to land during March, 2023.
