Mcintosh MX121 User Manual
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 www.mcintoshlabs.com
MX121
A/V Control Center
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 appa-
ratus (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
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
third prong are provided for your safety. If
the provided 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 tipover.
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
To prevent the risk of electric
shock, do not remove cover or
back. No user-serviceable parts
inside.
been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to
rain or 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 power supply
cord plug from the a.c. receptacle.
17. The mains plug of the 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
Trademark and License Information
The McIntosh MX121 incorporates copyright protected technology that is protected by U.S. patents and
other intellectual property rights. The MX121 uses the
following Technologies:
This item incorporates copy protection technology
that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual
property rights of Rovi Corporation. Reverse engineering and disassembly are prohibited.
Trademark and License Information
PANDORA, the PANDORA logo, and the Pandora
trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Pandora Media, Inc. Used with permission.
Trademark Logo License Information
AirPlay®, the AirPlay logo, iPhone®, iPod®, iPod classic®, iPod nano®, iPod shufe®, iPod touch® and iPad
are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S.
and other countries.
“Made for iPod” and “Made for iPhone” mean that
an electronic accessory has been designed to connect
specically to iPod or iPhone respectively, and
has been certied by the developer to meet Apple
performance standards.
Apple is not responsible for the operation of this
device or its compliance with safety and regulatory
standards. Please note that the use of this accessory
with iPod, or iPhone, may affect wireless performance.
•iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano, iPod shufe
and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc.,
registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Individual users are permitted to use iPhone, iPod,
iPod classic, iPod nano, iPod shufe,and iPod touch
for private copy and playback of non-copyrighted
contents and contents whose copy and playback
is permitted by law. Copyright infringement is
prohibited by law.
Manufactured under license from Audyssey
Laboratories. U.S. and foreign patents pending.
Audyssey MultEQ® XT, Audyssey Dynamic EQ®,
Audyssey Dynamic Volume® and Audyssey DSX®
are registered trademarks of Audyssey Laboratories.
Trademark Logo License Information
DLNA®, the DLNA Logo and DLNA CERTIFIED®
are trademarks, service marks, or certication marks
of the Digital Living Network Alliance.
®
TM
HIGH-DEFINITION MULTIMEDIA INTERFACE
Device Class: DMP (Digital Media Player)
DLNA Certied® Product Function: FINDS, PLAYS
Content Type: audio, images, videos (Check supported
media formats.)
DLNA consumer website: www.dlna.org
Some content may not be compatible with other
DLNA Certied® products (example: optional media
formats)
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
Dolby, Pro Logic and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
Manufactured under license under U.S. Patent
Nos: 5,956,674; 5,974,380; 6,226,616; 6,487,535;
7,212,872; 7,333,929; 7,392,195; 7,272,567 & other
U.S. and worldwide patents issued & pending. DTSHD, the Symbol, & DTS-HD and the Symbol together
are registered trademarks & DTS-HD Master Audio is
a trademark of DTS, Inc. Product includes software.
© DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Manufactured under license from DTS Licensing
Limited. DTS, the Symbol, & DTS and the Symbol
together are registered trademarks & DTS Neural
Surround is a trademark of DTS, Inc. Product includes
software. © DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
HDMI, the HDMI Logo and High-Denition
Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered
trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United
States and other countries.
3
Thank You
Your decision to own this McIntosh MX121 A/V Control Center ranks you at the very top among discriminating music listeners. You now have “The Best.” The
McIntosh dedication to “Quality,” is assurance that
you will receive many years of musical enjoyment
from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in
this manual. 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: 6 07-723-3512
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: 6 07-723-3515
Fax: 607-723-1917
Table of Contents
Safety Instructions ..................................................... 2
Trademark and License Information .........................3
Thank You and Please Take a Moment ...................... 4
Technical Assistance and Customer Service ............. 4
Table of Contents .......................................................4
General Information .................................................. 5
Connector and Cable Information .............................6
Introduction ................................................................ 7
Performance Features ................................................ 7
Dimensions ................................................................ 8
Installation ................................................................. 9
Connections:
Rear Panel Connections ........................................... 10
Connections Diagram (Separate Sheet) ................. Mc1A
MX121 Main Zone Input Connections .................... 11
Connection Diagram (Separate Sheet) .................. Mc2A
MX121 Main Zone Output Connections ................. 12
Connection Diagram (Separate Sheet) ...................Mc2B
MX121 Zone 2 Input and Output Connections ........ 13
Connection Diagram (Separate Sheet) ............Mc3A , 3B
Copyright 2012, 2014 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
Front Panel:
Front Panel Displays, Controls and Push-buttons ...147
Diagram (Separate Sheet) .......................................Mc1B
Remote Control:
Remote Control ........................................................ 15
Push-buttons Functioning (Separate Sheet) ...Mc4A, 4B
Setup Mode:
Introduction to the MX121 Setup Mode .................. 16
Audyssey Auto Setup .......................................... 17-20
Network Settings and Functions ......................... 21-23
Trigger Settings and Option Settings....................... 23
Input Connections, Re-Naming and
Amplifier Assignment .......................................... 24
Manual Speaker Setup ............................................. 25
HDMI, Zone 2 and Zone 3 Setup ............................ 26
Picture Adjust and IR Sensor Setting ...................... 27
Video Input, Input Mode Setup ............................... 28
Input Source Level, Audio Setup and
Manual Equalization ........................................ 29-30
Surround Parameter ................................................. 30
Operation:
How to Operate the MX121 .................................... 32-
Audyssey Adjustments ............................................ 37-38
iPod Playback and AirPlay ......................................38 -39
USB Drive Playback .....................................................40
Accessing the Internet and McIntosh Radio .......... 42-43
Pandora ................................................................... 44-45
Flickr .............................................................................46
Resetting the Micro and Updating Firmware ............... 47
Additional Information:
Photos .................................................................. 48-49
Specifications ........................................................... 50
Packing Instruction .................................................. 51
4
General Information
1. For additional connection information, refer to the
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the MX121 A/V Control Center.
2. The Main AC Power going to the MX121 and
any other McIntosh Component(s) should not
be applied until all the system components are
connected together. Failure to do so could result
in malfunctioning of some or all of the system’s
normal operations. When the MX121 and other
McIntosh Components are in their Standby Power
Off Mode, the Microprocessor’s Circuitry inside
each component is active and communication is
occurring between them.
3. Sound Intensity is measured in units called Decibels and “dB” is the abbreviation.
4. LFE (Low Frequency Effects) refers to the Dolby
Digital or DTS sound channel dedicated to sound
effects (such as explosions) and is usually reproduced by the Subwoofer.
5. 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 concerning battery disposal.
6. For additional information on the
MX121 and other McIntosh Products please visit
the McIntosh Web Site at www.mcintoshlabs.com.
7. The Main Zone accepts Audio Input Signals from
the HDMI, iPod/USB, Coaxial/Optical Digital
and unbalanced/balanced Analog Input Connections.
8. The Zones 2 and 3 accept Audio Input Signals
from the iPod/USB, Coaxial/Optical PCM Digital
Signals and unbalanced/balanced Analog Input
Connections.
Note: When connecting source devices with HDMI
Outputs to the MX121, make sure to also con-
nect the unbalanced/balanced Analog Output
or Coaxial/Optical Digital Audio Output for
each HDMI Source connected to MX121.
9. The Main Zone accepts Video Input Signals from
the HDMI, Component Video and Composite
Video Input Connections.
10. Zone 2 accepts Video Input Signals from the
Component Video and Composite Video Input
Connections.
11. Zone 3 is for Audio Signal Sources only.
12. MX121 is a three Zone Product (Main Zone, Zone
2 and Zone 3). This allows two different Audio/
Video Sources to be available simultaneously
for two separate rooms. Zone 2 may be used to
provide an Audio/Video Output Signal for recording purposes, instead of an A/V signal to a second
room. The Zone 3 allows for listening to a different Audio Source from either the Main Zone or
Zone 2. For more information contact your McIntosh Dealer or McIntosh Technical Support.
13. The IR Input with 1/8 inch mini phone jack is
compatible 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 MX121. To avoid
possible interaction, disable the MX121 Front
Panel Sensor. Refer to “IR Sensor" on page 27.
14. Setup Mode operations should be performed in
the order they appear in the first Setup Menu
presented, as they are interactive.
15. To hear bass frequencies below 80Hz, your system
must include either a Subwoofer or Large Front
Loudspeakers.
16. The MX121 has built-in HDMI Digital Video
Selection and Digital Video Processing Circuitry
with scaling capabilities to convert Composite or
Component Video Signals to Digital Video.
General Information
17. When there is a connection between the HDMI
Output and a TV/Monitor, the On-Screen Overlays including Menus, will only appear on the
HDMI Output.
18. HDMI Cable lengths between source components
and the MX121 also between the MX121 and the
TV/Monitor, should not exceed 25ft (8.3m). If
there is need to use HDMI Cables longer than 25ft
(8.3m) a high quality in line HDMI Buffer/Converter would be required for reliable digital signal
transmission via the HDMI Connections.
19. The MX121 is designed to pass through a 3D
Digital Video Signal from a source component
to a 3D TV/Monitor via the HDMI Connections.
It is extremely important the HDMI cables used
for connections meet or exceed the HDMI High
Speed Cable Standards (1.4a) for proper 3D Video
Playback.
20. The Remote Control Supplied with the MX121
A/V Control Center is capable of operating other
components. For additional information go to
www.mcintoshlabs.com.
21. The MX121 is compatible with the following
Apple Mobile Devices with the latest version of
the Apple OS Software installed:
iPod touch (4th generation) iPhone 4S
iPod touch (3rd generation) iPhone 4
iPod touch (2nd generation) iPhone 3GS
iPod touch (1st generation) iPhone 3G
iPod classic iPhone
iPod nano (6th generation)
iPod nano (5th generation)
iPod nano (4th generation)
iPod nano (3rd generation)
22. The listing of "Last.fm" in the "MANUAL SET-
UP ► NETWORK SETUP" On-Screen Display
is no longer active as "Last.fm" has closed service
at the end of March 2014.
5
Connector and Cable Information
XLR Connectors
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced
Output Connectors on the MX121. Refer to the dia-
PIN 1
Output
PIN 3
PIN 2
grams for connections:
PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Signal
PIN 3: - Signal
Input
PIN 2 PIN 1
PIN 3
Connector and Cable Information
RS232 DB9 Connector Pin Layout
1. N/C 6. N/C
2. Data Out (TXD) 7. N/C
3. Data In (RXD) 8. N/C
4. N/C 9. N/C
5. Gnd.
PWR CTRL (Power Control)/Trigger Connectors
The MX121 Power Control Out/ Trigger Output Jacks
send an On/Off signal from 0 to +12 volts with a total
current up to 50mA when
connected to other Components. A 1/8 inch stereo
mini phone plug is used for
connection to the Power
+12V DC
(Trigger
Control)
N/C
Ground
Control/ Trigger Outputs on
the MX121.
Data In and Output
The MX121 Data In receives
Remote Control Signals from
Source Components. The
Data
Signal
MX121 Data Out sends Remote
Control Signals to McIntosh
Ground
Source Components. A 1/8 inch
mini phone plug is used for connection.
IR In Port Connector
The IR IN Port also uses a 1/8
inch mini phone plug and allows the connection of external
IR Data
Control
IR Receivers to the MX121.
Ground
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
Ethernet Cable - Crossover Connections
Pin Number - Wire Color Pin Number - Wire Color
1. Orange/White → 1. Green/White
2. Orange → 2. Green
3. Green/White → 3. Orange/White
4. Blue → 4. Blue
5. Blue/White → 5. Blue/White
6. Green → 6. Orange
7. Brown/White → 7. Brown/White
8. Brown → 8. Brown
Pin 8
Pin 1
Pin 1
Pin 8
6
Introduction
The MX121 A/V Control Center sets the standard of
excellence in a Home Theater System. The MX121
provides superior multichannel reproduction, Audyssey® Room correction, the latest in digital audio
decoding and digital video processing circuitry.
Performance Features
• HDMI 1.4a with 3D Passthru Switching
There are six HDMI 1.4a Inputs. HDMI Output 1 in-
cludes the new Digital Audio Return Channel (ARC)
signal from the TV
extra cable and simplifies operation. HDMI inputs are
compatible with Deep Color, x.v.Color, Auto Lipsync
and HDMI Component Control.
• Analog Video/Audio Switching with Scaling
Component Video Inputs and Composite Video Inputs
(Analog Video Signals) are also converted to a Digital
Video Signal with resolution up to 1080P at the HDMI
Outputs.
• Direct Access
There are 9 Analog (one eight channel input) and 11
Digital Audio Inputs along with 9 Analog and 6 Digital Video Inputs.
• Balanced Inputs and Outputs
A pair of Balanced high level Inputs and an eight
channel Balanced Output are provided, permitting
long cable lengths without a loss in sound quality.
• Moving Magnet Phono Input
There is a Precision Phono Preamplifier for Moving
Magnet Cartridges.
1
For TVs with ARC compatibly
1
, thus eliminating the need for an
Cable Information, Introduction and Performance Features
• Built-in Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master
Decoders
The MX121 also provides built-in decoding of the
Dolby Pro Logic IIz, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, Dolby
Digital EX, DTS Neo6 and DTS-ES Sound Tracks.
• Internet Streaming
The MX121 when connected to a network, offers Internet Radio, with music and photo streaming.
• On-Screen and Multifunction Fluorescent
Displays
A comprehensive On-Screen Display capability makes
it easy to perform setup and operational adjustments
using the Remote Control. The front panel display
indicates input selection, volume levels, and other
operating functions.
• LED Channel Status Indicators
The MX121 includes twenty-five LEDs on the front
panel to indicate what type of operating signals are
being received, signal processing mode and the output
format chosen.
• Audyssey DSX
Audyssey DSX is a scalable system that adds new
speakers to improve surround impression.
Audyssey DSX rst adds Wide channels for the
biggest impact on envelopment and then creates
Height channels to reproduce the next most important
acoustical and perceptual cues. Surround
Envelopment Processing is used to enhance the blend
between the front and surround channels.
• Digitally Controlled Volume and Tone Controls
A Precision Tracking Volume Control adjusts all
®
twelve channels with tracking accuracy better than
0.5dB. The Bass and Treble circuits provide a wide
range of tone shaping with no loss in traditional McIntosh sonic excellence.
• Triple Zones
The MX121 has the built-in ability to control a sepa-
rate remote audio/video zone (Zone 2) with program
selection independent of Main Zone, using a dedicated
power amplifier and speakers. There is also a third
Zone (Zone 3) providing a separate audio only source
to another room.
• Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination
The Illumination of the Glass Front Panel is accomplished by the combination of custom designed Fiber
Optic Light Diffusers and extra long life Light Emit-
ting Diodes (LEDs). This provides even Front Panel
Illumination and is designed to ensure the pristine
beauty of the MX121 will be retained for many years.
• Power Control, Triggers and Full Function Remote Control
The Power Control and Triggers provide convenient
Turn-On/Off of components connected to the MX121.
The Remote Control Push-buttons provide complete
control of the MX121 operating functions.
• Machined Side Panels
The sides of the MX121 are machined from thick aluminum panels with a smooth black finish.
• Special Power Supply
The Power Supply has Multiple Regulators to ensure
stable noise free operation even though the power line
varies.
7
Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining
the best location for your MX121.
Front View of the MX121
17-1/2"
44.5cm
Dimensions
Rear View of the MX121
17-1/8"
43.5cm
7 -1/8"
18.1cm
6-3/8"
16.2cm
7 -5/8"
19.4cm
13/16"
2.1cm
1-15/16"
4.9cm
Side View of the MX121
16-1/2"
41.9cm
14-1/2"
36.8cm
10-9/16"
26.8cm
3/16"
0.5cm
5.1cm
6-9/16"
16.7cm
2"
13 -1/4"
33.7cm
8
Installation
The MX121 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 MX121 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
MX121 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
MX121. Cool operation ensures the longest possible
operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not
install the MX121 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.
When the MX121 is placed free-standing on a flat
surface, allow at least 2 inches (5.08cm) above the
top and 2 inches (5.08cm) on each side, so airf low is
not obstructed. Allow 19-1/2 inches (49.53cm) depth
behind the front panel. Allow 1-7/16 inch (3.66cm) in
front of the mounting panel for knob clearance.
A custom cabinet installation should provide the
minimum spacing dimensions for cool operation. Al-
low at least 2 inches (5.08cm) above the top, 2 inches
(5.08cm) below the bottom and 2 inches (5.08cm) on
each side, so airflow is not obstructed. The Custom
Cabinet should be open backed and at least 12 inches
(30.48cm) away from any surface such as a wall. Be
sure to cut out a ventilation hole in the mounting shelf
according to the dimensions in the drawing. Allow
1-7/16 inch (3.66cm) in front of the mounting panel for
knob clearance.
MX121 Front Panel
Custom Cabinet Cutout
MX121 Side View
in Custom Cabinet
MX121 Bottom View
in Custom Cabinet
Note: Center the cutout Horizontally
on the unit. For purposes of
clarity, the above illustration
is not drawn to scale.
Cabinet
Front
Panel
Support
Shelf
1-1/16"
2.7cm
17-3/16"
43.7cm
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
2-1/4"
5.7cm
9-1/8"
23.2cm
Cutout
Opening
Ventilation
15"
38.1cm
for
12-5/16"
31.3cm
Installation
6-9/16"
16.7cm
Chassis
Spacers
15"
38.1cm
9
Rear Panel Connections
The identification of Rear Panel Connections for the
MX121 A/V Control Center is located on a separate
folded sheet contained in the Owner’s Manual Packet.
Refer to separate sheet “Mc1A” for the Rear Panel
Connections.
Rear Panel Connections
MX121 A/V Control Center Rear Panel
10
MX121 Main Zone Input Connections
The MX121 has the ability to automatically switch
power On/Off to McIntosh Source Components via
the Power Control/Trigger connections. The Data Port
Connections allow for the remote operation of basic
functions using the MX121 Remote Control. With an
external sensor connected, remote control operation of
the system is possible when the MX121 is located in a
cabinet with the doors closed (Main Zone).
The Main Zone connection instructions below,
together with the MX121 Input Connection Diagram
located on the separate folded sheets “Mc2A”, is an
example of a typical Home Theater System. Your
system may vary from this, however the actual components would be connected in a similar manner. For
additional information refer to “Connector and Cable
Information” on page 6.
Note: The following source component and sensor con-
nections made to the MX121 are using the default
settings. Refer to page 24.
Power Control Connections:
1. Connect a Control Cable from the MX121 PWR
CTRL TRIGGER 1 Jack to the Power Control
Remote In on the Turntable.
2. Connect a Control Cable from the Turntable
Power Control Remote Out jack to the AM/FM
Tuner Power Control In Jack.
3. Connect a Control Cable from the AM/FM Tuner
Power Control Out Jack to the Audio/Video Disc
Player Power Control In Jack.
4. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in
a similar manner, as outlined in steps 1 thru 3.
5. Connect a Control Cable from the Power Control
Output Jack (from the last component a Power
Control Input connection was made) onto the first
Power Amplifier with a Power Control Input jack.
Data Control Connections:
6. Connect a Control Cable from the MX121 DATA
OUT Jack to the AM/FM Tuner Data In Jack.
IR In Connections:
7. Optionally, connect the Control Cable from the
Main Zone External Sensor (or external IR Con-
nection Block) to the MX121 IR IN Jack.
Note: Refer to page 5 for information on compat-
ible Sensors and page 6 for Cable/Connection
information.
Analog Audio Connections:
8. Connect an Audio Cable from the MX121 ANALOG AUDIO IN TUNER Jacks to the Tuner
unbalanced Analog Output Jacks.
9. Connect Balanced Cables from the MX121 AUX
1 BALANCED IN Jacks to the Audio/Video Disc
Player Audio Outputs Balanced 2 CHannel Jacks.
10. Connect an Audio Cable from the MX121 ANALOG AUDIO IN VCR Jacks to the VCR Analog
Output Jacks.
11. Connect Audio Cables from the MX121 ANALOG
AUDIO IN PHONO Jacks to the Turntable Out
Jacks.
Digital Audio Connections:
12. Connect a Digital Coaxial Cable from the MX121
Digital COAX IN 2 Jack to the Satellite Reciever
Digital Coaxial Output Jack.
Analog Video Connections:
13. Connect a Video Cable from the MX121 COMPONENT VIDEO IN 2 Jacks to the Satellite Reciever
Component Video Output Jacks, making sure to
match the “Y”, “PB” and “PR” connections at both
ends of the cable.
MX121 Main Zone Input Connections
HDMI Connections:
14. Connect a HDMI Cable from the MX121 HDMI
IN 1 Connector to the Audio/Video Disc Player
HDMI Out Connector.
Ground Connections:
15. Connect a Ground Cable from the MX121 GND
Binding Post to the Turntable GND Binding Post.
Proceed to Main Zone Output Connections on the
next page.
11
MX121 Main Zone Output Connections
The MX121 has the ability to automatically switch
power On/Off to a McIntosh Power Amplifier via the
Power Control/Trigger connection.
The connection instructions below, together with
the MX121 Main Zone Output Connection Diagram
located on the separate folded sheet “Mc2B”, is an example of a typical Home Theater System. Your system
may vary from this, however the actual components
would be connected in a similar manner. For additional information refer to “Connector and Cable Information” on page 6.
Note: The following component connections made to
the MX121 are using the default settings. To make
changes to the default settings proceed to Setup
Mode starting on page 16.
Power Control Connections:
1. From the last component a Power Control Input
connection was made to, connect the Control
Cable to the Power Control In on Main Zone
Power Amplifier One.
Note: If no source component(s) is connected for
Power Control from the MX121, then connect
a Control Cable from the PWR CTRL/TRIGGER Jack on the MX121 to the Power Control In on Main Zone Power Amplifier One.
2. Connect a Control Cable from Main Zone Power
Amplifier One Power Control Out to Main Zone
Power Amplifier Two Power Control In Jack.
3. Connect a Control Cable from Main Zone Power
Amplifier Two Power Control Out to Main Zone
Power Amplifier Three Power Control In Jack.
4. Connect a Control Cable from Main Zone Power
Amplifier Three Power Control Out to the Powered Subwoofer Power Control In Jack.
5. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a
similar manner, as outlined in steps 1 thru 4.
MX121 Main Zone Output Connetions
Analog Audio Connections:
6. Connect Balanced Audio Cables from the MX121
BALANCED OUTPUTS (Main Zone) - FL (Front
Left Channel), C (Front Center Channel) and FR
(Front Right Channel) to Main Zone Power Am-
plifier One Inputs 1, 2 and 3 respectively.
Note: Unbalanced Audio Connections may be used
in place of the Balanced Connections.
7. Connect Balanced Audio Cables from the MX121
BALANCED OUTPUTS (Main Zone) - SL (Surround Left Channel) and SR (Surround Right
Channel) to Main Zone Power Amplifier Two,
Inputs Left and Right respectively.
8. Connect Balanced Audio Cables from the MX121
BALANCED OUTPUTS (Main Zone) - SBL
(Surround Left Back Channel) and SBR (Surround
Right Back Channel) to Main Zone Power Ampli-
fier Three, Inputs Left and Right respectively.
9. Connect a Balanced Audio Cable from the MX121
BALANCED OUTPUTS (Main Zone) - SW1
(Subwoofer) to the Powered Subwoofer MONO
Input.
Note: Optionally Connect a second Subwoofer to
the BALANCED OUTPUT (Main Zone) SW2
connection.
HDMI Connections:
10. Connect a HDMI Cable from the MX121 ZA
HDMI OUT 1 ARC Connector to the Main Zone
TV/Monitor HDMI Input Connector.
When Zone 2 (Audio/Video in another room) on the
MX121 will be utilized, proceed to page 13 for information on making the needed additional connections.
If Zone 2 will not be utilized at this time proceed to
step 11 below.
AC Power Cords Connections:
11. Connect the MX121 and any remaining components’ AC Power Cords to a live AC outlet.
12
MX121 Zone 2 Input Connections
MX121 Zone 2 Input and Output Connections
In a typical MX121 two Zone Audio/Video System,
Source Components can share the same Data Port
Connections. The two Zones of the MX121 also share
the same Analog Audio and Component Video Connections. The additional Analog Audio and Video
Connections below are for Source Components connected to Main Zone via Digital Connections, as Zone
2 is Analog Audio/Video only.
The MX121 Zone 2 Input Connection Diagram (located on the separate folded sheet “Mc3A and Mc3B”)
is an example of a typical Zone 2 Second Room
System. Your system may vary from this, however the
actual components would be connected in a similar
manner. For additional information refer to “Connector and Cable Information” on page 6.
Note: The following connections made to the MX121
are using the default settings. To make changes to
the default settings proceed to Setup Mode starting on page 16.
Sensor Connections:
1. Connect the Zone 2 Sensor to a external IR Connection Block and the output of the Connection
Block to the MX121 IR IN Jack.
Note: If there is no external Sensor used for the
Main Zone, a splitter is not needed. Connect
the Zone 2 Sensor directly to the MX121 IR IN
Jack.
Analog Audio Connections:
2. Connect an Audio Cable from the MX121 ANALOG INPUT IN TUNER Jacks to the AM/FM
Tuner unbalanced Output Jacks.
3. Connect an Audio Cable from the MX121 ANALOG INPUT IN BD Jacks to the Audio/Video
Disc Player Audio Outputs Unbalanced 2CH Jacks.
4. Connect an Audio Cable from the MX121 ANALOG INPUT IN SAT Jacks to the Satellite Analog
Output Jacks.
Analog Video Connections:
5. Connect Component Video Cables from the
MX121 COMPONENT VIDEO IN 1 Jacks to the
Audio/Video Disc Player Component Video Output Jacks, making sure to match the “Y”, “PB” and
“PR” connections at both ends.
6. Connect Component Video Cables from the
MX121 COMPONENT VIDEO IN 3 Jacks to the
Satellite Component Video Output Jacks, making
sure to match the “Y”, “PB” and “PR” connections
at both ends.
MX121 Zone 2 Output Connections
The MX121 has the ability to automatically switch
power On/Off to McIntosh Power Amplifiers via the
Power Control/Trigger connections.
The following connection instructions, together
with the MX121 Zone 2 Output Connection Diagram
located on the separate folded sheet “Mc3B”, is an
example of a typical Zone 2 Second Room System.
Your system may vary from this, however the actual
components would be connected in a similar manner.
For additional information refer to “Connector and
Cable Information” on page 6.
Note: The following component connections made to
the MX121 are using the default settings.
Power Control Connections:
1. Connect a Control Cable from the MX121 PWR
CTRL/TRIGGER (Power Control) 2 Jack to the
Power Control In on Zone 2 Power Amplifier.
2. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a
similar manner, as outlined in step 1.
Analog Audio Connections:
3. Connect Audio Cables from the MX121 ANALOG AUDIO OUT Zone 2 OUT Jacks - L (Left
Channel) and R (Right Channel) to Zone 2 Power
Amplifier Left and Right respectively.
Analog Video Connections:
4. Connect Component Video Cables from the
MX121 COMPONENT VIDEO OUT 2/ZONE 2
Jacks to the Zone 2 TV/Monitor Video Input Jacks,
making sure to match the “Y”, “PB” and “PR”
connections at both ends.
AC Power Cords Connections:
5. Connect the MX121 and any remaining components’ AC Power Cords to a live AC outlet.
13
Front Panel Display, Controls,
and Push-buttons
The identification of the MX121 A/V Control Center Front Panel Display, Controls, and Push-buttons
is located on a separate folded sheet contained in
the Owner’s Manual Packet. Refer to separate sheet
“Mc1B”.
Front Panel Display, Controls, and Push-buttons
MX121 A/V Control Center Front Panel
14
Remote Control Push-Buttons
The identification of Remote Control Push-Buttons
for the MX121 A/V Control Center is located on a
separate folded sheet contained in the Owner’s Manual
Packet.
Refer to separate sheet “Mc4A and Mc4B” for Pushbuttons identification.
Remote Control Push-Buttons
DFR
HR078
15
Introduction to the MX121 Setup Mode
Your McIntosh MX121 has been factory configured
with default operating settings allowing for immediate
use. Changes to the default settings are accomplished
with the built-in Setup Feature using On Screen
Menus.
To assist in navigating the various On Screen
Menus please refer to the set of MX121 Menu separate
folded sheets "MX121-Menu-1 thru Menu-7"; and to
separate sheets “Mc4A thru Mc4B” for Push-button
identifications. These separate sheets are contained in
the Owner’s Manual Packet.
Follow the sequence of SETUP Adjustments as
they appear in this Owner's Manual, as they are
interactive. Some of these adjustments and whether
or not some choices even appear On-Screen are based
on the components connected to the MX121, Source
Input selected and previous
settings made.
1. Press the STANDBY/
ON Push-button on the
Front Panel or press the
ON (Power) Push-button
on the Remote Control to switch On the MX121.
Refer to figures 1 and 3. The Front Panel Information Display will first indicate “MX121 A/V
Control Center ” and then the last source selected
“BD Stereo” and volume level setting of "M.VOL.
---.-dB".
2. Press the Push-button, then press the MENU
Push-button to enter the Setup Mode. The words
“*MENU A/V Adjust ” will appear on the Front
Panel Information Display and the On-Screen
"MENU" (Main Menu) will appear on the Monitor/TV Screen. Refer to figure 2.
Notes: 1. While Setup adjustments can be accom-
plished using the Front Panel Informa-
Figu re 1
MENU
Audio/Video Adjust
Information
Auto Setup
Manual Setup
Input Setup
Adjust various audio and video parameters
Figu re 2
tion Display, the On-Screen Display on
a Monitor/TV connected to the HDMI or
Component Video output allows more
information to be visible at the same time,
making it easier to navigate through the
choices.
2. When there is a HDMI Output Connection between the MX121 and a TV/Monitor, the On-Screen Overlays including
Menus, will only appear on the HDMI
Output.
3. Navigating thru and making changes to the Setup
Menus is performed by using the HR078 Remote
Control directional Up or Down, Left or
Right, ENTER and the MENU Push-buttons.
The Front Panel NAV (up), (down), (left)
or (right) Push-buttons may also be used.
4. Access the desired Setup Menu or Device Man-
agement (Menu) by pressing the Up or Down
left or right directional push-buttons. Pressing the ENTER Push-button will then activate the
highlighted Menu Item.
5. Return to the Main Menu by pressing the RETURN Push-button on the Remote Control. To
exit the SETUP Mode press the RETURN Pushbutton again.
Introduction to the MX121 Setup Mode
DFR
HR078
Figu re 3
16
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