McIntosh has launched a high-performance protective mains controller, the MPC500 Power Controller.

The new McIntosh MPC500 Power Controller has been designed to protect audio equipment by introducing a number of technologies to minimise the risk of electrical inconsistencies damaging high-value audio equipment. In addition to power sockets, the device offers protection for ethernet devices.

Cascaded Surge Protection

Featuring cascaded surge protection, the MPC500 delivers full mode AC power line surge protection (for example, from a lightning strike), as well as protecting low voltage devices against secondary surges and spikes that can occur after the event. AC power line protection is accomplished with the use of three thermally protected metal-oxide varistors (TPMOVs), which are thought to be far safer than traditional MOVs, that provide Line to Neutral, Line to Ground and Neutral to Ground protection. For secondary surge events, the MPC500 provides protection for Ethernet, coaxial and other low voltage devices via Gas Discharge Tubes (GDT), Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) thermistors and Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) components.

EMI Filtering

Also included in the MPC500, is electromagnetic interference (EMI) filtering of the AC line and over/under voltage protection, which will switch off the rear receptacles to keep connected devices safe from trying to operate at undesired voltage levels. The MPC500 includes either 8 Type B1 (NEMA 5-15R) or 4 Type F1 (CEE 7/3 or ‘Schuko’) receptacles; only the appropriate version is available in each individual country to ensure compatibility with local power systems. There is no UK plug option. Control of each receptacle can be configured via the rear panel Power Control ports or through the set-up menus on the front panel.

The front panel display can list input voltage, the amount of current being drawn through the receptacles, or total (apparent) power. Regardless of receptacle type, all versions of the MPC500 feature the McIntosh black glass front panel, illuminated logo, control knobs, and aluminium end caps.

Pricing And Availability

$2,500 USD (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded). Not available in the UK.

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