McIntosh XRT2.1K Loudspeaker Debut
The XRT2.1K is a full range system that provides spacious sound reproduction with an unusually deep sound stage. Standing 7 feet tall, a pair of these vertical monoliths will grab the attention of everyone in the room. But when the music starts, the only thing people will pay attention to is the enveloping sound! In developing the new XRT2.1K, McIntosh used their expertise in building "line source" speakers and then focused on: further enhancing power handling, reducing THD, improving bass extension, and improving soundstage focus. As a result of this re-design, the new XRT2.1K boasts optimized speaker emission and staging ability, with extreme flexibility in listening room placement.
A Vertical Monolith: McIntosh speakers are characterized by their renowned line array technology, which drives the overall vertical design of the speakers. The structure of the speaker is divided into two main elements: array and bass. To join the two elements of array and bass, McIntosh adapted the architectural concept of steel "spiders," which hold glass in front of skyscrapers. This inspiration is evident in XRT2.1K's the mid-high array system, which is suspended in front of the bass column.
Enhanced Power Handling: The XRT2.1K features a new 4-way configuration that incorporates 81 drivers including: (45) 3/4" tweeters, (28) 2" full-ranges, (2) 6.5" low-frequency mid-ranges, and (6) 8" woofers. This represents a reduction of 29 drivers compared the XRT2.1K's predecessor and realizes McIntosh's "fewer drivers/same power handling" goal.
Left & Right Speaker: There is a separate Left and Right speaker, with the woofers and low-frequency mid-ranges housed in the base cabinet and the upper-frequency mid-ranges and tweeters housed in the line array, which is suspended in front of the base cabinet. The low-frequency mid-ranges and tweeters are positioned toward the center of the listening space, optimizing the speaker emission with no particular need to "aim" them when placed in the listening room. The Left and Right speaker configuration also reinforces the stereo pair concept.
Functional Aesthetics: The suspended array panel design recalls the classic McIntosh faceplate - glossy black with aluminum trim. The supporting studs are inspired by the classic McIntosh knob. The bass enclosure is made of reinforced HDF finished with 7 layers of high-end piano black paint, and the bass drivers are finished with rubber/aluminum rings. Separate pairs of patented Solid Cinch binding posts for the mid/high, low, and subwoofer frequencies allow for tri-amping or tri-wiring. The base of the XRT2.1K is made of a combination of machined aluminum and glass. Completing the iconic McIntosh look is a backlit front logo, which uses the power control connection on the back of the speaker.
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