McIntosh MQ112 8-band analog equalizer

Perfect the imperfections

Since most rooms are not acoustically balanced, adjustments and tweaks can lead to a better, truer representation of the music. That's why an environmental EQ like the McIntosh MQ112 is a smart addition to your already fine-tuned two- channel system. When paired with a stereo amplifier or a compatible integrated amp, it lets you manipulate the music signal to sound the way you want it instead of how the room dictates.

Eight is enough

The MQ112 is an eight-band analog equalizer that allows you to easily increase or decrease the levels of the audio signal between the 25Hz and 10kHz frequency ranges. This means that if you need to squeeze a little more life out of your old copy of Blonde on Blonde by tweaking the midrange, you can do so with ease. Too much low end when jazzing out to some Coltrane? Not a problem. An equalizer's primary function is to fine-tune the music. And given that this model has a wide range of adjustment within each of its eight bands (±12dB), you'll have the tools you need to help the music sound its best.

Full tilt boogie

In addition to the eight EQ controls, the MQ112 features a Tilt knob which adjusts the audio signal around a centered frequency point— 650Hz, which is called the "tilt" frequency. In simple terms, when you adjust the tilt frequency, you're essentially choosing a pivot point around which the frequencies are either boosted or attenuated. In this EQ, that adjustment is ±6dB. If you increase the tilt in a clockwise direction, you're boosting the higher frequencies while attenuating the lower ones. And if you turn the knob counterclockwise, you're boosting the lower frequencies while attenuating the higher ones.

This adjustment can be useful for shaping the overall tonal balance of the music, allowing you to emphasize certain frequency ranges or compensate for deficiencies in a room's acoustic properties.

Balanced and unbalanced stereo connections

The MQ112 provides both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs and outputs, allowing seamless integration with a wide range of gear. The ideal way to connect this EQ placing it in-line between your stereo preamp and amplifier. It also works with integrated amplifiers that have a processor loop or tape monitor function.

Also, its interchangeable connectivity ensures flexibility: meaning if your input requires unbalanced cables (e.g., from a CD player or the preamp out of a turntable), but only balanced output options are available, there won't be any signal flow issues.

Beautiful inside and out

Like other McIntosh gear, the MQ112 sports classic good looks, featuring a black glass front faceplate, rotary control knobs, illuminated logo, and sleek custom machined aluminum end caps. Its is a well-engineered, well-crafted, and visually stunning addition to a high-performance two-channel audio system. Your music and your ears deserve it.