McIntosh MP100 Phono Preamplifier

Description 

The McIntosh MP100 is a specialised piece of audio equipment known as a phono preamplifier, designed specifically for vinyl enthusiasts who use turntables. Turntables produce a very low-level signal that requires amplification before it can be sent to a stereo or speaker system. The MP100 handles this task with precision and high fidelity. It is a 2 channel device which means it supports stereo playback providing separate left and right audio channels for a rich, immersive sound experience. Being a solid state preamplifier, it uses modern electronic components rather than vacuum tubes, ensuring reliability, compact size, and clean sound reproduction.

A standout feature of the MP100 is its support for both Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges, which are the two main types used in turntables. These cartridges convert the physical grooves in a vinyl record into electrical signals, but they have different output levels and electrical properties. The MP100's ability to support both types, along with adjustable loading (six settings each), means users can fine-tune the impedance and capacitance to perfectly match their cartridge, maximizing sound quality and reducing distortion or signal loss.

In terms of connectivity, the MP100 offers both balanced and unbalanced analog outputs. Balanced outputs are especially useful in professional or high-end systems as they reduce electrical noise, while unbalanced outputs are commonly used in home audio setups. This dual output option makes the MP100 compatible with a wide range of audio systems.

One of the MP100’s key modern features is its digital output capability, including USB, optical, and coaxial connections. These allow users to connect the preamp to a computer or digital recorder to digitize their vinyl records, preserving them in high-quality digital formats. The USB output is fixed at 24-bit/96kHz, a high-resolution setting that captures the full dynamic range of records while keeping the file size manageable. This makes it an excellent tool for archiving albums or enjoying vinyl tracks on digital devices.

To ensure high-quality recordings, the MP100 includes a clipping indicator, which alerts the user if the signal level is too high preventing distortion in the resulting digital file. For vinyl purists who are only interested in analog playback, the digital section of the MP100 can be completely disabled, ensuring the purest analog signal path possible.

Additionally, the MP100 includes a mono switch, a feature that optimizes playback for mono records (older vinyl recordings with only one audio channel). This function helps reduce background noise and ensures the sound is presented accurately as originally intended.

Finally, the MP100 is highly versatile. It can be the core of a new vinyl system, serve as an upgrade to an older audio setup, or easily integrate with a home theater system without duplicating features already handled by a home theater processor. Whether you're a newcomer to vinyl or a seasoned collector, the MP100 delivers a balanced mix of analog tradition and digital innovation, making it a valuable addition to any audiophile’s equipment.

Technical specifications 

Electronic Specifications

Connectivity

Control

Digital Audio Specifications

General Specifications

Dimensions & Weight