McIntosh MX136 Home Theater Processor and Preamp w/Phono

General:The MX-136 is geared toward consumers who aren't as concerned about the latest codecs found on Streaming and Blu-ray discs, but rather maximizing the performance of the traditional formats and the extensive collections already in existence.This decision is made clear by the MX-136's HDMI ports which accept video only. In addition to the there are 12 analog audio inputs and 11 audio / video inputs, an option internal radio tuner. The audio connections include two pairs of balanced audio connections and a 7.1 analog input.While the video section does not posses the latest 8k HDMI processing (just has basic HDMI), the audio section is still relevant and makes for a great full function audio processor. Especially if you like to use your system for music as well as video. Just connect your 4k HDMI sources directly to the TV and route digital audio to the MX136, reducing the signal path and improving the video quality. It's a win/win. This MX136 is in great working condition and was fully tested. The audio quality is very good, and the controls are responsive and fully operational throughout.The display is still super bright and readable. Technical Notes:This model does not allow OSD (On Screen Display) for setup to be overlaid on the HDMI output. In order to perform advanced setup, you will need a display that is capable of receiving a composite video signal from the MON A output on the MX136.Basic video signal testing was through HDMI by plugging an Apple TV into the DVD input and passing the signal to an LG display. Note that this unit may not support resolutions above 1080p.This unit was reset to factory default settings. After performing this procedure we set the PH/AUX input to Phono mode and verified proper RIAA response.This processor includes a factory fresh HR093 remote control. All basic control features for the main zone were tested and verified, however, certain features such as zone 2 control may not be accessible with the HR093. Front faceplate glass illumination is delivered via the more advanced McIntosh fiber optic system - much better than bulbs.Cosmetic Notes:The faceplate end caps and top trim bezel show moderate wear. The cover is also scuffed and scratched as shown in our photos. Light dust halo behind VFD.Brand Background:McIntosh Laboratory is an American manufacturer of handcrafted high-end audio equipment based in Binghamton, New York. The company was founded in 1949 by Frank McIntosh. The company designs and produces audio amplifiers, stereo tuners and other consumer electronics products.Ownership:Single OwnerConnections:RCA Inputs and output. XLR Outputs for Zone A. HDMI and Component Video IN and OUT. Optical and Coax Digital Audio In. Removable Power Cord, 12V triggers.Cosmetic Condition:7/10 = Good. One or two minor scratches. Well Maintained. See our detailed rating description here.Included:Unit, remote, and power cord.Packing:Original Manufacturers PackingReviews:Click HereOriginal MSRP:$10,000.00Specs:FREQUENCY RESPONSESTEREO MODELEFT and RIGHT FRONT Channels,+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz DOLBY PRO LOGIC IIx MODE and MUSIC MODESLEFT, CENTER and RIGHT FRONT, LEFT and RIGHT SURROUND and BACK channels, +0, -0.5dB from20Hz to 20kHz If SMALL speakers are programmed, the above channels employ high pass filters with a corner frequency of 80Hz and a 12dB per octave roll-off. DD, DTS, and 8 CHANNEL EXTERNAL INPUTAll channels, +0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz SUBWOOFERLow pass filtered with an 80Hz corner frequency and 24dB per octave roll-off in all Modes except External. RATED OUTPUT2V from all Outputs OUTPUT IMPEDANCELess than 600 ohms all Outputs MAXIMUM OUTPUT8V from all Outputs TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTIONAll channels, 0.005% from 20Hz to 20kHz INPUT SENSITIVITYLine Level: 100mV for 500mV outputPhono: 1mV for 500mV outputDolby Level: 200mVExternal Processor Reference Level: 200mVSIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO, A-WEIGHTED98dB below rated output MAXIMUM INPUT SIGNALHigh Level: 6V INPUT IMPEDANCE:High Level: 20k ohmsPhono: 47k ohms VOLTAGE GAINHigh Level to Tape Output: 0dBHigh Level to Preamp Output: 14dBPhono to Preamp Output: 54dB TONE CONTROLSBass and Treble variable 12dB boost to 12dB cut POWER REQUIREMENTS100V, 110V, 120V, 220V, 230V, 240V, 50/60Hz, 65 wattsDimensions:(H x W x D) includes feet9-7/16" (24cm) x 17-1/2" (44.5cm) x 18-3/4" (47.6cm)Weight:31 lbs.Approximate Age:2008Link to Manual:Click Here Recommended Cables: Kimber Kable - RCA Interconnects - Better Kimber Kable - RCA Interconnects - Best Kimber Kable - Phono Interconnects - Better Kimber Kable - Flagship Phono Interconnects - Best Kimber Kable - BALANCED XLR Connectors - Better Kimber Kable - BALANCED XLR Connectors - Best Kimber Kable - Coaxial Digital Interconnect Kimber Kable - Optical Digital Interconnect Kimber Kable - Power Cords - Better Kimber Kable - Power Cords - Best The SkyFi Testing Process for Preamplifiers/Processors: We start with a visual inspection of all internal components to make sure there are no signs of stress or aging. Capacitors are checked for telltale sings of bulging or leaking, resistors are checked for signs of overheating or cracking, and transistors are checked for signs of stress or damage. Special attention is paid to the power supply which is the most common source of failure for preamps. We then power up the unit and run a simple 1k sine wave while monitoring the low voltage output on an oscilloscope for signs of distortion or noise to get a baseline.  At this point we will lubricate and clean all switches and potentiometers (that are not sealed) with a high quality contact cleaner, and then re-test all functions for any signs of noise or scratching.  Final testing involves putting actual music through the preamplifier We have learned over time that some issues are only noticeable to a trained ear while listening to a familiar source material. Our test bench has reference vintage KEF speakers that we are super familiar with which will quickly reveal any discrepancies. Some preamps will then move into the listening room where they will be tested with our in-house reference system.