McIntosh MQ112 Environmental Equalizer

The quest for perfect sounding audio in your house can be frustrating as virtually no space in a home is designed with sound reproduction in mind. This can lead to constantly tinkering with acoustic treatments, changing speaker placement, or even rearranging furniture (which may not go over too well with other members of the household). Instead of wasting time fiddling with your system or room, take control of your sound with the MQ112 Environmental Equalizer and spend more time listening to your music.

In the relentless pursuit of perfect audio, we understand the frustration of adapting your living space for optimal sound reproduction. With the MQ112, you can make changes to the music itself so that room acoustic problems can be overcome. The results can be stunning and can make even a great sounding stereo system sound even better.

"The McIntosh MQ112 is a well-implemented analog equalizer, it provides the user with the ability to make adjustments to key regions of the audio band and do so without polluting the signal with unwanted noise or artifacts… Audio purists may abhor the thought of altering the signal path with equalization, but let’s face it, some recordings and some systems will benefit from this, and that is where the McIntosh MQ112 really shines.” – Future Audiophile

8 BANDS OF CONTROL

At the heart of the MQ112 lies an 8-band analog equalizer (also called a stereo equalizer) that allows you to increase or decrease the levels of the audio signal at 8 key bands in the 25Hz – 10kHz audio frequency range. Think of it as a sonic sculptor that allows you to finely tune the audio signal. With an impressive ±12dB range of adjustment for each band, you can easily cope with any sound challenge. The MQ112 is the solution you need to enhance or subdue particular instrument ranges or voice types, transforming your listening experience.

CAN IMPROVE THE SOUND OF OLDER MUSIC

The MQ112 Environmental Equalizer does more than just fix room acoustics; it can also breathe new life into older, imperfect recordings. With the master precision of the MQ112, you can target specific frequencies, compensating for deficiencies in vintage tracks and unveiling their hidden brilliance.

The TILT knob, with its subtle tonal balance shift of ±6dB, allows you to customize your sound further. Boost the bass while reducing treble, or vice versa – the choice is yours. The EQ Control knob's IN and OUT settings let you bypass the entire equalizer circuit so you can compare the adjusted sound to the original, unaltered version, ensuring you achieve the perfect audio profile. The equalizer can also be triggered IN or OUT using the rear panel’s EQ Control Trigger, giving you seamless control over when the MQ112 works its magic. Also, by using one of the programmable triggers in the audio system's preamplifier, the EQ can be switched IN or OUT depending on input or amplifier choice. Crafted with precision and versatility, the MQ112 boasts remarkably low noise circuits and minimal distortion, harmonizing seamlessly with high-performance audio systems.

VERSATILE AUDIO SYSTEM COMPONENT

Both balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs are included on the versatile MQ112, making it easy to add it to your stereo system: simply place it between the preamplifier and power amplifier(s) and connect them all together using the inputs and outputs of your choice. The input type you use does not have to match the output type; for example, you could connect a preamplifier (or another audio component with volume control like some CD Players) via the unbalanced inputs, but then connect the MQ112 to your power amplifier(s) with balanced cables via the balanced outputs. The MQ112 can also be used with integrated amplifiers, provided the integrated amp has removable jumpers so the preamplifier section can be disconnected from the power amplifier section.

The versatility of the MQ112 is further evident in its second pair of outputs, which opens a world of possibilities for enjoying your music. You can play the same music through a separate stereo system in another room, bi-amp a single pair of speakers for optimal sound control, or connect a subwoofer for that extra bass punch.

For subwoofers without stereo inputs, the second output on the MQ112 can be set to MONO; two subwoofers can also be connected this way. In more intricate systems, the MQ112 can be connected through PROCESSOR loops and TAPE MONITOR record/play connections found on many preamplifiers and integrated amplifiers.

CLASSIC MCINTOSH

The design of the MQ112 Environmental Equalizer is a testament to McIntosh's commitment to timeless aesthetics and high-quality materials. The black glass front faceplate, rotary control knobs, illuminated logo, and custom machined aluminum end caps are signature features of the brand. The back panel's Power Control ports allow for seamless integration with other McIntosh components, making it easy to turn the MQ112 on and off with the rest of your audio system.