Modern-retro marvels
While McIntosh has been making loudspeakers since 1970, it isn’t every day that the electronics specialist adds a new pair to its range. That’s one reason why the launch of the ML1 MKII at High End is rather exciting. Another is that they are actually modern reinventions of the company’s first model back in 1970, the ML-1C. And if you’re looking for a third, well, have you seen them?
The new ML1 MKII are among the most striking retro-modern speakers that have appeared in recent years — and if you’ve been following the classic speaker resurrection trend of late, you’ll know there have been a lot. Those of you who are familiar with the originals will note the preservation of the two-part bae of the oiled American Walnut solid wood cabinets and satin finish veneers, though the cloth grille is not accompanied by the ML-1C’s slats this time.
The ML1 MKII also introduce a matching stand with a vintage die-cast aluminium name badge on the base. The biggest changes, however, have been made internally, with McIntosh claiming that a full modern revamp has been undertaken to reflect the sonic standards it holds today. The four-way speaker uses five separate drivers — a 12-inch polypropylene cone woofer in a sealed enclosure; two four-inch lower midrange polypropylene cone drivers in a sealed sub-enclosure; one two-inch soft dome upper midrange driver; and the same 0.75-inch Titanium dome tweeter found in the brand's XR50 standmounts and XR100 floorstanders.
McIntosh says the ML1 MKII can be paired with amplifiers up to 600 watts, and while it promises “similar base response” as the ML-1C, thankfully the new speakers don’t need an equalizer this time — the originals required either the MQ101 or MQ102 equalizer!
As for when you’ll be able to get your hands on these puppies, shipping of the ML1 MKII will commence in July. And the damage they would do to your wallet? $25,990's worth.
For more information, contact Synergy Audio Visual on (03) 9459 7474 or visit www.synergyaudio.com