McIntosh MQ112 Manual
PDF manual · 12 Pages
English
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Eight-band equalization with ±12dB per band for precise room correction.
- Balanced and unbalanced I/O with two output sets for flexible routing and subwoofer support.
- Low noise and distortion: 115dB SNR and 0.005% THD preserve audio fidelity.
- Power control and EQ trigger for seamless integration with McIntosh systems.
- Solid-state LED front illumination for long-life, even panel lighting.
Disadvantages
- No field AC voltage conversion — unit is factory-configured for a single mains voltage.
- Requires adequate ventilation and supplied feet must remain attached for proper cooling.
- Relatively modest power draw but limited to 30W; not a power amplifier replacement.
- AUTO OFF disables when REMOTE power mode is used, which may surprise some users.
- Advanced EQ features may have a learning curve for users unfamiliar with multiband equalization.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The MQ112 provides both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs and two sets of balanced and unbalanced outputs (Output 1 and Output 2). Output 2 can be switched between stereo and mono for subwoofer or mono use.
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Each of the eight frequency bands (25Hz to 10kHz) offers ±12 dB of adjustment. The Tilt control provides ±6 dB shelving around a 650Hz tilt axis for broad tonal shifts.
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Yes. The MQ112 has Power Control IN/OUT for coordinated turn-on/off and an EQ CONTROL trigger input that allows remote switching of the EQ when the front panel EQ control is set to TRIG.
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Rated output: 2.5V unbalanced, 5V balanced. Signal-to-noise ratio: 115 dB (A-weighted). Total harmonic distortion: 0.005% from 20Hz–20kHz. Frequency response extends from 20Hz to 20kHz within ±0.5 dB.
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Install the MQ112 upright with at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) of clearance above, front, rear and sides. Do not remove the supplied feet; they ensure proper airflow beneath the unit and correct placement for shipping or repacking.
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When AUTO OFF is set to ENABLE, the MQ112 powers down after approximately 30 minutes of no input signal. AUTO OFF is automatically disabled when the front panel POWER knob is set to REMOTE.
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No. The MQ112 is factory-configured for a specific AC voltage (options include 100–240V variants) and field AC voltage conversion is not possible. Refer to model labeling or dealer for correct voltage version.
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Product Description
McIntosh MQ112 Manual — Environmental Equalizer
The McIntosh MQ112 is a precision environmental equalizer designed to restore and tailor sonic balance for high-fidelity audio systems. Built with McIntosh’s commitment to performance and durability, the MQ112 offers a combination of fine-grain equalization controls, flexible I/O options, and system-friendly features that make it ideal for both home and professional setups.
The MQ112 provides eight parametric band controls centered at 25Hz, 50Hz, 100Hz, 200Hz, 400Hz, 1kHz, 3kHz and 10kHz, each allowing ±12 dB adjustments to sculpt room response and correct acoustic anomalies. A Tilt control offers ±6 dB shelving around a 650Hz axis to quickly change tonal balance, while a front-panel EQ CONTROL knob enables immediate IN, OUT, or TRIG operation. The TRIG mode lets the equalizer be switched by remote triggers from compatible McIntosh components for seamless system integration.
Connectivity is comprehensive: balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs and two sets of balanced/unbalanced outputs support stereo or mono/Subwoofer configurations. Balanced design and generous voltage specifications (2.5V rated unbalanced, 5V rated balanced; up to 10V/20V maximum) ensure low noise and strong headroom. The MQ112 achieves a 115 dB A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio and very low total harmonic distortion (0.005%), preserving musical detail while offering precise corrective control.
The unit includes system-friendly features such as power control IN/OUT for coordinated turn-on/off functions, an AUTO OFF option that powers down after 30 minutes of silence, and solid-state front panel illumination using long-life LEDs for consistent aesthetics. Installation guidance emphasizes upright placement with at least 3 inches of clearance for ventilation and maintaining the supplied feet for proper airflow and shipping protection.
Mechanically, the MQ112 is compact and rack-friendly at 17.5" wide, 3 15/16" high, and 15 11/16" deep, weighing 15 lb (6.8 kg). It is factory-configured for various AC mains voltages and draws 30 watts in operation, with field voltage conversion not supported. McIntosh provides detailed specifications, connection diagrams, and packing/part lists to support setup and service.
Notes:
- Use balanced connections when possible to minimize noise and maximize dynamic range.
- Keep the EQ in OUT when bypass is desired; use TRIG for automated switching with compatible McIntosh gear.
- Observe ventilation clearances and keep the supplied feet attached to avoid overheating and shipping damage.
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