McIntosh is releasing a modernized version of their first successful speaker, the ML1. This ML1 Mk II uses new design and construction methods while keeping the classic look. The price is $12,000 for a pair, including speaker stands.
McIntosh is following a trend of audio companies updating classic products with modern features. This is similar to remastering classic music for a new generation. Other companies like KLH, JBL, and Klipsch are also doing this.
McIntosh President Charlie Randall responded to our question when we asked him about his approach to modernizing and relaunching iconic designs,
"We always pick products that have been pivotal in McIntosh's history, as well as products that are timeless in performance. Obviously, we incorporate new parts and materials to bring the products up to today's standards. There is a careful balance between protecting the past and playing in the present so as not to diminish the brand."
A Journey Through Time
According to Ken Kessler's in-depth book on McIntosh, the company's foray into speakers wasn't initially smooth sailing. Their first attempt, the 1952 F100 speaker, wasn't a hit and was soon dropped. McIntosh then focused on electronics until around 1970, when their chief acoustical engineer, Roger Russell, designed the ML1 loudspeaker. This innovative four-way speaker used a sealed enclosure and acoustic suspension, with a 12-inch woofer. To further improve bass response, Russell even included matching equalizers. For more details on the technical aspects, you can refer to Russell's own online account of McIntosh's history.
The ML1 Mk II speaker inherits some design elements from the original ML1, but also boasts key improvements. Both versions utilize a sealed enclosure with the same dimensions, making them larger than bookshelf speakers but smaller than floorstanders. A significant upgrade in the Mk II is the inclusion of dedicated speaker stands. These stands elevate the speakers and tilt them for optimal sound quality in most listening environments. The stands boast a stylish McIntosh badge and add weight to the overall system. Each speaker itself is quite heavy, and the stands further increase their stability. Additionally, the back of the Mk II features high-quality speaker terminals that allow for flexible connection options.
The cabinet and stand have a beautiful exterior made from oiled walnut veneer. The speaker grilles are also made of walnut, but solid wood instead of veneer. These grilles are easier to remove with magnets and are made from a tougher, more transparent fabric for better sound quality and protection from pets.
Planted firmly on its two legs, the ML1 has a personality that makes it seem eager to take off on a little adventure. While some call it old-fashioned, it definitely has a unique charm reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts movement. If you're looking for a speaker with a sleek, futuristic design, this might not be the best choice.
Hidden Depths
The McIntosh ML1 Mk II is a modern reincarnation of the classic ML1 speaker. While it keeps the same core design principles and a key element, the 12" woofer, there are several upgrades under the hood. The new speaker uses five drivers instead of four, with a different configuration for handling various frequency ranges. Material of the cones and surrounds have also been improved for better performance.
An interesting aspect of the design is the use of a sealed-box enclosure instead of a more common vented design. While a vented design can produce lower bass for a similar sized cabinet, the sealed box design offers advantages in distortion control.
The 12" woofer itself has seen significant improvements. With McIntosh's new design, the woofer achieves similar low frequency response as the original design with less distortion and better efficiency. The speaker can handle a significant amount of power, up to 600W, and is protected by built-in fuses.
The McIntosh ML1 Mk II is a high-end speaker that combines a vintage look with modern technology. It has a four-way design with three crossover frequencies and utilizes advanced materials not available in the 1970s. The speaker drivers are positioned for improved imaging and off-axis reproduction, making it enjoyable from a wider listening area. While the sealed enclosure design results in average sensitivity, the speaker can handle a wide range of amplification power. The impedance is a nominal 8 ohms, making it an easy load for amplifiers.
Listen Up! It's Showtime
The McIntosh ML1 Mk II speakers arrived in well-packed boxes and were easy to set up. The sealed cabinets offer flexibility in placement, and the sturdy stands come with casters or spikes for different floor types. The speakers themselves are easily placed on the stands, and the provided wrench makes connecting the wires a breeze. In this reviewer's setup, the speakers were paired with a McIntosh MA252 integrated amplifier.
Our Verdict on the ML1 Mk II?
We are skeptical about the concept of needing to break-in audio equipment for better sound quality. However, they believe loudspeakers might be an exception. It makes sense that speakers with moving parts might need some time to loosen up and perform optimally. While the author admires those who patiently break-in their speakers, they themself are too impatient to wait and want to hear the results of new equipment immediately.
