McIntosh MB-100 Owners Manual
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 www mcintoshlabs.com
MB100
Media Bridge
Owner’s Manual
The lightning ash with arrowhead, within an equilateral
triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufcient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK
OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE
OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including ampliers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A
grounding type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the pro-
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
vided plug does not t into your outlet, consult
an electrician for replacement of the obsolete
outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on
or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specied by
the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specied by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from
tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus
has been damaged in any way, such as powersupply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been
spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
To prevent the risk of electric
shock, do not remove cover or
back. No user-serviceable parts
inside.
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.
15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or
splashing and ensure that no objects lled with
liquids, such as vases, are placed on the equipment.
16. To completely disconnect this equipment from
the a.c. mains, disconnect the AC / DC Adapter
from the a.c. receptacle.
17. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall
remain readily operable. If the AC /DC Adapter
is provided with a mains power supply cord
attachment, the plug of this power supply cord
shall remain readily operable.
18. Do not expose batteries to excessive heat such
as sunshine, re or the like.
19. Connect mains power supply cord only to a
mains socket outlet with a protective earthing
connection.
20. Warning: The Ethernet connector of this
equipment must not be directly connected to
a public network. Connection is to be made
only by way of a modem or router approved
for this purpose.
2
Thank You
Your decision to own this McIntosh MB100 Media
Bridge ranks you at the very top among discriminating music listeners. You now have the best. The
McIntosh dedication to precision performance assures
many years of musical enjoyment.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
guide. We want you to be as familiar as possible with
all the features and functions of your new McIntosh.
Please Take A Moment
The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer
name are important to you for possible insurance
claim or future service. The spaces below have been
provided for you to record that information:
Serial Number: _______________________________
Purchase Date: _______________________________
Dealer Name: ________________________________
Technical Assistance
If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh
product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar
with your McIntosh equipment and any other brands
that may be part of your system. If you or your Dealer
wish additional help concerning a suspected problem,
you can receive technical assistance for all McIntosh
products at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-3512
Fax: 607-724-0549
Customer Service
If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in
need of repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You
can also return it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service
Department. For assistance on factory repair return
procedure, contact the McIntosh Service Department
at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-3515
Fax: 607-723-1917
Table of Contents
Safety Instructions ............................................................... 2
Thank You and Please Take a Moment ...............................3
Technical Assistance and Customer Service ....................... 3
Table of Contents ................................................................. 3
General Information ............................................................ 4
Connector and Cable Information ....................................... 4
Introduction ......................................................................... 5
Performance Features .......................................................... 5
Dimensions .......................................................................... 6
Installation ........................................................................... 7
Rear Panel Connections ....................................................... 8
AC/ DC Adapt er ................................................................... 9
MB100 Connections ..................................................... 10 -11
Front Panel Display and Push-button ................................ 12
How to use the Remote Control .........................................13
How to Operate the Setup Mode .................................. 14-15
How to Operate the MB100 .......................................... 16 -20
Specifications ............................................................ 22
Packing Instructions ................................................. 23
Trademark and License Information
The McIntosh MB100 incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and
other intellectual property rights.
Copyright 2014 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
3
General Information
1. For additional connection information, refer to the
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected
to the MB100 Media Bridge.
2. When the MB100 Media Bridge is connected to
an audio system, playback of music already stored
on it may be listened to. To take full advantage of
the many features the MB100 is capable of, such
as importing and storing additional music on the
Media Bridge, requires connection to a Computer
Network System.
3. For best performance, the speed of the Computer
Network the MB100 Media Bridge would be connected to should be 1 Gigabit or faster.
4. The MB100 internal Digital to Analog Converter
Circuitry is designed to decode 2-channel PCM
(Pulse Code Modulation) Digital Signals. The
Digital Output Signal present at the Coaxial and
Optical Output Connectors is a 2-channel PCM
(Pulse Code Modulation).
5. The MB100 is designed to be compatible with the
majority of Audio Power Amplifiers. However,
do to a wide range of Power Amplifier Designs, it
is important the input sensitivity of the amplifier
be at least 2 Volts. This will assure the playback
of most music recordings are reproduced with adequate dynamic range. Check with your McIntosh
Dealer for additional information.
6. The IR Input, with a 3.5mm mini phone jack, is
configured for non-McIntosh IR sensors such as
a Xantech Model HL85BK Kit. Use a Connection
Block, such as a Xantech Model ZC21, when two
or more IR sensors need to be connected to the
MB100.
7. When discarding the unit, comply with local rules
or regulations. Batteries should never be
thrown away or incinerated but disposed
of in accordance with the local regulations
4
concerning battery disposal.
8. If it should become necessary to replace the supplied AC / DC Power Adapter,
order part number 32056300
from the McIntosh Parts Department.
9. For additional information on
other McIntosh Products and the downloadable
MB100 “Advanced Setup and Operation Guide”
please visit the McIntosh Web Site at www.mcin-
toshlabs.com.
10. Mobile Device Apps, for remote control operation of the MB100, were not available at the time
this Owner’s Manual was printed. When the Apps
become available, an announcement will be made
on the McIntosh Web Site at www.mcintoshlabs.
com/us/Products/pages/ProductDetails.aspx?Ca
tId=mediastreamers&ProductId=MB100. Please
note, for remote operation via mobile devices the
MB100 needs to be connected to home network
with wi-fi capabilities.
Connector and Cable Information
XLR Connectors
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced
Output Connectors on the MB100. Refer to the diagram for connection:
PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Output
PIN 1
PIN 3: - Output
Data and IR Input Port Connectors
The MB100 Data In Port receives Remote Control
Signals. A 3.5mm stereo mini phone
plug is used for connection. The IR
Ports also use a 3.5mm stereo mini
PIN 2
Data
Signal
N/C
Data
Ground
phone plug and allow the connection
of other brand IR Receivers to the
MB100.
IR Data
Control
N/C
Ground
Power Control Connector
The Power Control Input Jack receives Power On/
Off Signals (+12 volt/0 volt) when connected to other
McIntosh Components. The Power Control Output
Jack sends Power On/Off Signals (+12 volt/0 volt)
when connected to other McIntosh Components. An additional
connection is for controlling the
illumination of the Power Output Meters on McIntosh Power
Power
Control
Meter
Illumination
Control
Pass Thru
Ground
Amplifiers. A 3.5mm stereo mini phone plug is used
for connection to the Power Control Jacks.
Ethernet RJ45 Socket
1. Tranceive Data (+) 5. N/C
2. Tranceive Data (-) 6. Receive Data (-)
3. Receive Data (+) 7. N/C
4. N/C 8. N/C
Ethernet Cable - Straight Thru Connections
Pin Number - Wire Color Pin Number - Wire Color
1. Orange/White → 1. Orange/White
2. Orange → 2. Orange
3. Green/White → 3. Green/White
4. Blue → 4. Blue
5. Blue/White → 5. Blue/White
6. Green → 6. Green
7. Brown/White → 7. Brown/White
8. Brown → 8. Brown
Pin 8
Pin 1
Pin 1
Pin 8
General Information, Cable Information, Disc Information, Introduction and Performance Features
Introduction
The McIntosh MB100 Media Bridge offers the latest
in audio technology, providing state of the art audio
reproduction with the convenience of instant access
to your music library. When the MB100 is added to a
McIntosh System, the music from this source may be
enjoyed in your home. The advanced design ensures
many years of smooth trouble free operation.
Performance Features
• Built-in Networking Capability
The MB100 has the ability to connect to an existing
network for connecting to other devices also connect-
ed to the network, including the Internet (the Cloud).
• High Storage Capacity
The MB100 incorporates a massive 1 Terabyte Hard
Drive capable of storing the contents of a large Music
Collection.
• Expand the Music Server System
The MB100 can provide seamless access to music
contained on other MB100(s) from different physical
locations. It can also access music stored on other devices such as Computers and NAS (Network Assisted
Storage) Devices connected to the same network as
the MB100. This provides for unlimited music storage
capacity.
• USB 3 and USB 2 Inputs
Connect external storage devices to the MB100 for
increased music storage capacity.
• Graphical User Interface
When connected to a TV/Monitor, the On Screen
Display provides information such as Album Name,
Artist Name, Song Name, Playing Time and Location
for each of the selections. This allows for easy song
selection from multiple rooms in your home.
• HD Video Outputs
The MB100 has DVI-I and HDMI Connections for
providing High Definition Video Signals of 1080p or
720p resolutions.
• Internet Streaming Services
The MB100 also allows for listening to Internet Radio
Stations when connected.
• Local AM/FM Radio Stations
The MB100 also allows for listening to local AM/FM
Stations via the Internet.
• Select your Music
Listen to the music you want by creating your own
play lists and/or groups of music types.
• Digital Audio Outputs
There is a Coaxial and an Optical Digital Audio Output for connection to other components.
• Balanced and Unbalanced Analog Outputs
The MB100 has both unbalanced outputs and Balanced Outputs which permitting long cable lengths
without a loss in sound quality.
• Alphanumeric OLED Display
The display on the MB100 Front Panel provides various information on the operating status and the current music playing.
• On Screen Setup
The On Screen Setup allows for customizing various
settings such as audio, video, network and external
control to match the components in your system.
• Power Control
The Power Control Input connection provides convenient Turn-On/Off of the MB100 when connected to a
McIntosh System with Power Control.
• Remote Control
The Remote Control with illuminated push-buttons,
provides control of the MB100 operating functions.
A Data Port Connection to a McIntosh A/V Control
Center or Preamplifier allows for convenient system
operation using one Remote Control. An External IR
Sensor Input allows for remote operation when the
MB100 is located behind closed doors.
• Illuminated Glass Front Panel
The MB100 has the famous McIntosh Illuminated
Glass Front Panel. The Illumination of the Front Panel
is accomplished by the combination of custom designed Fiber Optic Light Diffusers and extra long life
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). This provides even
Front Panel Illumination and is designed to ensure
the pristine beauty of the MB100 will be retained for
many years.
5
Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining
the best location for your MB100.
Front View of the MB100
17-
1/2"
44.5cm
Dimensions
arious Artists
Symphony No. 9 S
Rear View of the MB100
17-1/32"
43.3cm
3-9/32"
8.3cm
3-7/8"
9.8cm
29/32
1.8cm
1-5/8"
4.1cm
Side View of the MB100
13"
33.0cm
12-1/16"
30.6cm
2-11/32"
6.0cm
2-17/32"
6.4cm
"
9-1/16"
23.0cm
1-3/8"
3.5cm
2-11/32"
6.0cm
13-1/4"
33.7cm
6
Installation
Installation
The MB100 can be placed upright on a table or
shelf, standing on its four feet. It also can be custom
installed in a piece of furniture or cabinet of your
choice. The four feet may be removed from the bottom
of the MB100 when it is custom installed as outlined
below. The four feet together with the mounting
screws should be retained for possible future use if the
MB100 is removed from the custom installation and
used free standing. The required panel cutout, ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are shown.
Always provide adequate ventilation for your
MB100. Cool operation ensures the longest possible
operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not
install the MB100 directly above a heat generating
component such as a high powered amplifier. If all
the components are installed in a single cabinet, a
quiet running ventilation fan can be a definite asset in
maintaining all the system components at the coolest
possible operating temperature.
A custom cabinet installation should provide the
following minimum spacing dimensions for cool
operation.
Allow at least 3 inches (7.6cm) above the top, 2
inches (5.1cm) below the bottom and 1 inch (2.5cm) on
each side of the Media Bridge, so that airflow is not
obstructed. Allow 17 inches (43.2cm) depth behind the
front panel. Allow 29/32 of an inch (1.8cm) in front of
the front panel for clearance. Do not block the 3-7/8
(9.8cm) inch circular pattern of small openings on the
top cover or the two rows of louvers opening on the
bottom of the MB100. Be sure to cut out a ventilation
hole in the mounting shelf according to the dimensions in the drawing.
MB100 Front Panel
Custom Cabinet Cutout
MB100 Side View
in Custom Cabinet
MB100 Bottom View
in Custom Cabinet
Cabinet
Front
Panel
Opening
for Ventilation
Support
Shelf
2-19/32"
6.6cm
2-27/32"
7.2cm
3"
7.6cm
13/16"
2.0cm
Cutout Opening
for Ventilation
17-1/8"
43.5cm
arious Artists
Symphony No. 9 S
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
10-1/2"
26.7cm
11-7/8"
30.2cm
6-9/16"
16.7cm
2-3/4"
7.0cm
Chassis
Spacers
14-17/32"
44.5cm
Note: Center the cutout Horizontally on the unit.
For purposes of clarity, the above
illustration is not drawn to scale.
7
Rear Panel Connections
Connect the supplied
AC/DC Power Adapter
DC Output Connnector
eSATA (External Serial ATA)
for connection of an external
storage device capable of transferring data at very high speed
DVI (Digital Video Interface)
Output for connecting to a
HDTV or Monitor with a DVI
Input Connector with a video
resolution 720p or 1080p
POWER CONTROL IN receives
turn-on signals from a McIntosh
component and POWER CONTROL
OUT sends turn-on signals on to
another McIntosh Component
USB (version 2)
for connection of
an external storage
device capable of
transferring data
BALANCED AUDIO OUTPUTS supply analog audio
signals to connect to Balanced
Inputs of other components
COAXIAL and OPTICAL AUDIO
OUTPUTS send a Digital Audio
Signal to a Preamplifier or an A/V
Control Center with a D/A Converter
or a decoder
USB 3 (version 3)
for connection of an
external storage device
capable of transferring
data at high speed
8
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia
Interface) Output (Audio and Video
Digital Signals) for connecting to
a HDTV or Monitor with a HDMI
Input with a video resolution 720p or
1080p
IR IN for connecting an
IR Receiver
NETWORK Connector
for connecting the MB100
to a Broadband Ethernet
Network
UNBALANCED AUDIO
OUTPUTS supply analog
audio signals to Unbalanced
Inputs of other components
DATA IN receives
control data from a
McIntosh Control
Center
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