McIntosh MX135 User manual

MX135
Owner’s Manual
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]
A/V Control Center
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby”, “Pro Logic” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
“DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are registered trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.

2
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE
OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.
WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK OF
FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
The lightning flash with arrowhead,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended
to alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
of electric shock to persons.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover or
back. No user-serviceable parts inside.
The exclamation point within an equi-
lateral triangle is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servic-
ing) instructions in the literature ac-
companying the appliance.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce
heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized
or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prong are
provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician
for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specified by the manufacturer,
or sold with the apparatus. When a
cart is used, use caution when moving
the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply
cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled
or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or
splashing and ensure that no objects filled with
liquids, such as vases, are placed on the
equipment.
16. To completely disconnect this equipment from
the a.c. mains, disconnect the power supply cord
plug from the a.c. receptacle.
17. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall
remain readily operable.

3
If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to
the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is
grounded so as to provide some protection against
voltage surges and built-up static charge. Article 810
of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, pro-
vides information with reguards to proper grounding
of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the
lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, and size of
ground conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit,
connection to ground electrodes and requirements for
the grounding electrode.
Outdoor Antenna Grounding
Example of antenna grounding as per
National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70
Safety Instructions

4
Safety Instructions ............................................................. 2
Thank You.......................................................................... 4
Please Take a Moment ....................................................... 4
Technical Assistance.......................................................... 4
Customer Service............................................................... 4
Table of Contents............................................................... 4
Important Information ....................................................... 5
Connector Information ...................................................... 6
Introduction ....................................................................... 7
Performance Features ........................................................ 7
Dimensions ........................................................................ 8
Installation ......................................................................... 9
Connections
Rear Panel Multizone, Control and Switch ..................... 10
Rear Panel Analog and Digital Audio Connections ........ 11
Rear Panel Video Connections ........................................ 12
How to Connect Multizone, Data and Power Control..... 13
How to Connect Digital Audio Components................... 14
How to Connect Analog Audio Components
for five or six channels .................................................... 15
How to Connect Video Components ............................... 18
How to Connect for Zone B ............................................ 19
Front Panel Features
Front Panel Controls and Sensor ..................................... 20
Front Panel Push-button and Switch ............................... 21
Front Panel Displays........................................................ 22
Setup Mode
How to Operate the Setup Mode ..................................... 23
Default Settings ............................................................... 24
How to Adjust for Loudspeaker Size............................... 26
How to Adjust Loudspeaker Time Delay ........................ 28
How to Adjust Loudspeaker Levels ................................ 29
How to Change the Input Setup....................................... 31
How to Change the Volume Setup................................... 37
How to Adjust Zone B Setup........................................... 37
How to Change the Advanced Settings ........................... 38
Operation
How to Operate the MX135 ............................................ 40
How to Operate the Trim Mode....................................... 43
How to Operate the Surround Mode ............................... 46
How to Make a Recording............................................... 48
How to Operate Zone B................................................... 49
Additional Information
Audio and General Specifications ................................... 50
TM1 AM/FM Tuner Module
TM1 Table of Contents.................................................... 52
Packing Instructions ........................................................ 59
Table of Contents
Your decision to own this McIntosh MX135 A/V Control
Center ranks you at the very top among discriminating mu-
sic listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh
dedication to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive
many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all
the features and functions of your new McIntosh.
Customer Service
Technical Assistance
Please Take A Moment
Thank You
Copyright 2004 ©by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer
name are important to you for possible insurance claim or
future service. The spaces below have been provided for
you to record that information:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Dealer Name:
If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in need of
repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You can also return
it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service Department. For as-
sistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the
McIntosh Service Department at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh
product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar with
your McIntosh equipment and any other brands that may
be part of your system. If you or your Dealer wish addi-
tional help concerning a suspected problem, you can re-
ceive technical assistance for all McIntosh products at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

5
Important Information
1. The MX135 A/V Control Center has provisions for adding an
optional McIntosh TM1 AM/FM Tuner Module for Radio
Station Reception. The TM1 is available from your McIntosh
Dealer and can be installed at any time, usually while you
wait. Refer to page 52 for additional TM1 information.
2. Before making any connections to the MX135, make sure the
Main POWER Switch is in the Off position. Failure to do so
could result in malfunctioning of some or all of the system’s
normal operations.
3. All Zones in a McIntosh Multizone System (except for Zone A)
are unbalanced Analog Audio Signals only. The Digital Audio
Input Source Signals and Balanced Analog Audio Input
Signals will not appear at any of the Zones (including Zone B
of the MX135 and Zones of a CR12 or CR16 when connected
to the MX135). The Source Component Unbalanced Analog
Outputs must be connected to the MX135.
4. The connection of a turntable to the PH/AUX Input jacks
requires changes to be made in the SETUP Mode, refer to
page 32. If a recording is made from the turntable and/or
listening to a record in Zone B of the MX135 and Zones of a
CR16 when connected to the MX135 both the INPUT A and
INPUT B Controls need to be placed in the PHON position.
5. Connecting Cables are available from the McIntosh Parts
Department:
Data and Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202
Six foot, shielded 2 conductor, with 1/8 inch stereo mini
phone plugs on each end.
Control Center to Multi-Channel Power Amplifier Cable
Part No. 170-631
Six foot, DB25, shielded, straight through, 25 conductor
male-to-female cable.
Control Center to CR16 Cable Part No. 170-430
Six foot, DB37, shielded, straight through, 37 conductor
male-to-male cable.
6. When the MX135 is connected to some McIntosh
Multichannel Power Amplifiers with a 25 conductor cable, the
amplifier meters may automatically indicate the output of
individual channels during the Speaker Level Setup
Operation. Refer to the Power Amplifiers Owner’s Manual for
additional information.
7. When the MX135 is connected to a CR16 Controller Input B
jack with the 37 conductor cable, do not connect a 25
conductor cable to the CR16 Controller Input A jack from
another McIntosh Control Center.
8. When the MX135 is connected with a CR16, the MX135
provides fixed specific audio signals that match the CR16
Inputs. If the MX135 Inputs listed below are re-titled, the
Inputs Titles on the CR16 will no longer match. For example,
if the MX135 TV Input (7), is reassigned as DVD2, selecting
the TV Input on the CR16 will receive the audio signals from
DVD2.
MX135 Inputs CR16 Inputs MX135 Inputs CR16 Inputs
0. TUNER  TUNER 7. TV  TV
1. PH/AUX  AUX 8. LV  LV
3. CD2  CD2 9. VCR1  VCR1
Important Information
MX135 Inputs CR16 Inputs MX135 Inputs CR16 Inputs
4. TAPE 1
 TAPE 1 11. DVD  DVD
9. The MX135 Input Source Name “DVD” is equivalent to “V-
Aux” on some McIntosh Keypads, Remote Controls and
Audio/Video Control Centers.
10. Up to four McIntosh Sensors or Keypads can be wired in
parallel for both Zones A and B.
11. When a McIntosh WK-2 Keypad or a R649 Sensor is to be
connected to the McIntosh MX135 A/V Control Center that
uses a RJ-45 Connector Plug instead of the “F” Coaxial
Connector, connect the Center Conductor to Pin 1 and the
Shield Conductor to Pin 2. Refer to the figure below.
12. The Zone A and Zone B IR Inputs, with 1/8 inch mini phone
jacks, are configured for non-McIntosh IR sensors such as a
Xantech Model 291-10. To avoid possible interaction,
disable the MX135 Front Panel Sensor with the switch
recessed in the bottom panel behind and to the left of the
Sensor.
13. System Setup operations must be performed in the order
they appear in the Main System Setup Menu as they are
interactive.
14. In order to hear bass frequencies below 80Hz, your system
must include either a Subwoofer or Large Front
Loudspeakers.
15. When an assigned Digital Input and a matching Analog
Input are in use, the MX135 automatically searches first for
a Digital Signal. If no Digital Signal is sensed, it switches to
the Analog Input.
16. Certain DVD or Laser Video Disc Players that are
reproducing Digital DTS Signals into a MX135 Digital
Input, may only produce noise from their Analog Outputs. If
Zone B is turned on and that same input is selected, that
noise will be heard.
17. There are three types of Video Signals that can be connected
to and selected by the MX135; Composite, S-Video and
Component. Zone A and B, VCR 1 and 2 have both
Composite and S-Video Outputs; the Component Video
Output is for Zone A only. The MX135 has Digital Video
Processing Circuitry that will Up-Convert the desired
Composite Input to S-Video; it will also Up-Convert the
desired Composite and/or S-Video Inputs to Component
Video.
18. For additional connection information, refer to the owner’s
manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the MX135
A/V Control Center.
RJ-45
Plug
Data Ground
(to Pin 2)
Shielded Cable Data Signal
(to Pin 1)
“F” Connector
Pin 1 Pin 8

6
Connector Information
Keypad Terminal Connector
To use a WK-3 or WK-4 Keypad with the MX135, connect
the shield and four leads of a shielded 4 conductor cable to
a RJ-45 Connector Plug, according to the numbers listed
below. There is a numbered connector built into each Key-
pad, which has a different pin out.
MX135 RJ-45 WK-3 and WK-4 Keypad
1. Signal Data 1. Supply Voltage Positive
2. Signal Data Gnd. 2. Supply Voltage Negative
and Cable Shield 3. Cable Shield
3. N/C 4. Signal Data
4. Supply Voltage Negative 5. Signal Data Gnd.
5. Supply Voltage Positive
6. N/C
7. N/C
8. N/C
RS232 DB9 Connector Pin Layout
1. N/C 6. N/C
2. Data Out (TXD) 7. N/C
3. Data In (RXD) 8. N/C
4. N/C 9. N/C
5. Gnd.
Multi-Channel Amp DB25 Connector Pin Layout
1. Left Front + 15. Center Front Gnd.
2. Center Front + 16. Right Front Gnd.
3. Right Front + 17. Subwoofer Gnd.
4. Subwoofer + 18. Left Surround Gnd.
5. Left Surround + 19. Right Surround Gnd.
6. Right Surround + 20. Left Back Surround Gnd.
7. Left Back Surround + 21. Right Back Surround Gnd.
8. Right Back Surround + 22. N/C
9. N/C 23. N/C
10. N/C 24. System Calibrate Gnd.
11. N/C. 25. Power Control Gnd.
12. System Calibrate
13. Power Control In
14. Left Front Gnd.
XLR Connectors
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced Input
and Output Connectors on the MX135. Refer to the dia-
gram for connection:
PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Signal
PIN 3: - Signal
Multizone Controller (DB37 Connector):
1. Accessory-On 14. LV-Left 26. CD-Data
2. SYS-Off 15. TV-Left 27. N/C
3. Sum Data 16. Aux-Left 28. N/C
4. DVD-Data 17. Tape 1-Left 29. Ground
5. LV-Data 18. Tuner-Left 30. DVD-Right
6. Aux-Data 19. CD-Left 31. VCR 1-Right
7. Tuner-Data 20. Video Power 32. LV-Right
8. N/C 21. Ground 33. TV-Right
9. N/C 22. Home-Data 34. Aux-Right
10. N/C 23. VCR 1-Data 35. Tape 1-Right
11. Ground 24. TV-Data 36. Tuner-Right
12. DVD-Left 25. Tape 1-Data 37. CD-Right
13. VCR 1-Left
Power Control Connector
The MX135’s Power Control Outputs provide a 5 volt sig-
nal. Use a 1/8 inch stereo mini
phoneplugtoconnecttothePower
Control Input on other McIntosh
Components.
Data and IR Input Port Connectors
The MX135’s Data Port Output provides Remote Control
Signals. Use a 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plug to connect
to the Data Port Inputs on McIntosh Source Units. The IR
Ports also use a 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plug and allows
the connection of other brands IR Sensors to the MX135.
Note: The MX135 Rear Panel IR POWER Switch setting
determines if twelve volts are present at the Zone A and
B IR INPUTS.
Connector Information
IR Input Port Connector
with Rear Panel IR
Power Switch Set to Off Data Signal
N/C
Ground
IR Input Port Connector
with Rear Panel IR
Power Switch Set to On Data Signal
Ground
+12Volts
MX135
Keypad
Socket
Positive
N/C
Negative
Pin 1
Pin 2
Pin 3

7
Performance Features
Introduction
••
••
•Balanced Inputs and Outputs
Two pairs of Balanced high level Inputs and an eight chan-
nel Balanced Output are provided.
••
••
•Moving Magnet Phono Input
There is a Precision Phono Preamplifier for Moving Mag-
net Cartridges.
••
••
•On-Screen and Multifunction Fluorescent Displays
A comprehensive On-Screen Display capability makes it
easy to perform setup adjustments using the Remote Con-
trol. The front panel display indicates volume levels, tuner
functions, input selection, operating mode and setup func-
tions.
••
••
•Automatic Mode Switching with Auto Memory
The MX135 Automatically Switches Operating Modes ac-
cording to the input signal. Zone A will memorize the Pre-
ferred Mode settings last used for each input.
••
••
•Separate Listen and Record Input Selection
The 11 Analog A/V Inputs can be retitled for any desired
signal sources. Any unused input can be “turned off” so the
input selector will skip over it. All six digital inputs can be
assigned to any A/V signal source for Zone A. Separate
Record and Listen Circuits allow recording of one program
source while listening to another.
••
••
•Latest in Digital Audio Processing
The MX135 incorporates the latest technology in digital
multi-channel processing, including Dolby Digital EX, Pro
Logic IIx, DTS-ES and NEO:6.
••
••
•LED Channel Status Indicators
The MX135 includes twenty-four LEDs on the front panel
to indicate what type of operating signals are being re-
ceived, signal processing mode and the output format cho-
sen.
Introduction and Performance Features
Now you can take advantage of traditional McIntosh stan-
dards of excellence in the MX135 A/V Control Center as
the heart of your Home Theater System. The MX135 pro-
vides superior eight channel reproduction with the latest in
digital decoding combined with complete audio and video
switching. The McIntosh MX135 sets new standards for
accuracy in a Home Theater System.
••
••
•Pure Stereo Outputs
When Stereo Operation is selected for an analog source,
pure, unprocessed stereo signals appear at the left and right
front outputs.
••
••
•Adjustable Channel Level and Time Delay
A built-in test signal generator allows all eight channels to
be calibrated for precise volume levels with either auto-
matic or manual channel switching and can be adjusted for
time delay to compensate for different distances from each
Loudspeaker to the listening area.
••
••
•Digitally Controlled Volume and Tone Controls
A Precision Tracking Volume Control adjusts all eight
channels with tracking accuracy better than 0.5dB. Digi-
tally controlled bass, treble and loudness analog circuits
provide a wide range of tone shaping with no loss in tradi-
tional McIntosh sonic excellence.
••
••
•Video Switching with Digital Video Processing
Any Composite and/or S-Video Input can be Up-Converted
to a Component Video Signal with the built-in Digital
Video Processing Circuitry. There is also video switching
for all three types of video signals.
••
••
•External Eight Channel Input
An external eight channel signal processor can be con-
nected to these inputs as well as a DVD-Audio Player or
Super Audio Disc Player with a built-in processor.
••
••
•Dual Zone and Additional Expansion
The MX135 has the built-in ability to control a separate
remote audio/video zone with program selection indepen-
dent of Zone A, using a dedicated power amplifier and
speakers. A rear panel connector is provided to interface
with the CR16 Remote Control System to add four addi-
tional Remote A/V Zones.
••
••
•Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination
The Illumination of the Front Panel is accomplished by the
combination of custom designed Fiber Optic Light Diffus-
ers and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). This provides uni-
form Front Panel Illumination, together with the extra long
life of the LEDs.
••
••
•Glass Front Panel
The famous McIntosh Illuminated Glass Front Panel en-
sures the pristine beauty of the MX135 will be retained for
many years.

8
Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining the
best location for your MX135. There is additional informa-
tion on the next page pertaining to installing the MX135
into cabinets.
Dimensions
17- 3/4 "
45.09cm
8- 7/8 "
22.54cm
Front View of the MX135
Rear View of the MX135
9-
7/16 "
23.97cm
13- 1/4 "
33.66cm
17"
43.18cm
Side View of the MX135
18- 1/2 "
46.99cm
3/16 "
0.48cm
13/16 "
2.06cm
8- 1/4 "
20.96cm
14- 1/16 "
35.72cm
17"
43.18cm
7/8
"
2.22cm

9
Installation
Installation
The MX135 can be placed upright on a table or shelf,
standing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in a
piece of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The four feet
may be removed from the bottom of the MX135 when it is
custom installed as outlined below. The four feet together
with the mounting screws should be retained for possible
future use if the MX135 is removed from the custom instal-
lation and used free
standing. The re-
quired panel cutout,
ventilation cutout and
unit dimensions are
shown.
Always provide
adequate ventilation
for your MX135.
Cool operation en-
sures the longest pos-
sible operating life
for any electronic in-
strument. Do not in-
stall the MX135 di-
rectly above a heat
generating compo-
nent such as a high
powered amplifier. If
all the components
are installed in a
single cabinet, a quiet
running ventilation
fan can be a definite
asset in maintaining
all the system com-
ponents at the coolest
possible operating
temperature.
A custom cabinet
installation should
provide the following
minimum spacing
dimensions for cool
operation. Allow at
least 2 inches
(5.08cm) above the
top, 2 inches
(5.08cm) below the
bottom and 1 inch
(2.54cm) on each
8-5/16"
21.11cm
17-1/16"
43.34cm
MX135 Front Panel
Custom Cabinet Cutout
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
Support
Shelf
Cabinet
Front
Panel
Chassis
Spacers
MX135 Side View
in Custom Cabinet
MX135 Bottom View
in Custom Cabinet
Cutout Opening
for
Custom Mounting
Cutout
Opening
for
Ventilation
13"
33.02cm
13"
33.02cm 15"
38.10cm
1"
2.54cm
14-1/4"
36.20cm
10-7/8"
27.64cm
Notes: Center the Cutout Horitzonally on unit.
For purposes of clarity, the above
illustration is not drawn to scale.
side of the A/V Control Center, so that airflow is not ob-
structed. Allow 21 inches (53.34cm) depth behind the front
panel. Allow 1 inch (2.54cm) in front of the mounting
panel for knob clearance. Be sure to cut out a ventilation
hole in the mounting shelf according to the dimensions in
the drawing.

10
Rear Panel Multizone, Control Connections and Switch
Connect the MX135
power cord to a live
AC outlet. Refer to in-
formation on the back
panel to determine the
correct voltage
POWER CONTROL
A and B send a turn
On/Off signal to a
McIntosh Power Am-
plifier for each Zone
ACC sends a turn
On/Off signal to
McIntosh Source
Components
DATA Ports send sig-
nals to compatible
source components to
allow remote control
operation
TO MULTIZONE
CONTROLLER con-
nects to the McIntosh
Multizone Controller
Input B
RS232 connector
for connection to a
computer or other
control device
HOME Data Port
connects to the
optional HC-1
Home Controller
SUM A Data Port for
connections to other
McIntosh Compo-
nents
IR INPUTS
for Zone A or
B external
sensors
KEYPADS
ZONE A and B
for a McIntosh
Keypad or IR
room sensor
VIDEO sends a
turn On/Off sig-
nal to McIntosh
Video Source
Components
IR POWER On/
Off for ZoneA
or B external
Sensors
SUM Data Port for
Zones Aand B provides
connections to the other
McIntosh Components

11
Rear Panel Audio and Digital Audio Connections
MULTI-CHANNEL
AMPlifier connector
accepts a 25 conductor
cable that connects all
audio and power con-
trol signals to a McIn-
tosh Power Amplifier
DIGITAL INPUTS CD1,
SAT, and LV receive a
digital audio signal from
the Optical Output of a
component
DIGITAL INPUTS CD2,
TV and DVD receive a
digital audio signal from
the Coaxial Output of a
component
The eight channel
EXTERNAL IN-
PUTS accept audio
signals from a com-
ponent or external
processor
ZONE A OUTPUTS
send all eight audio
channel signals to
power amplifier in-
puts
INPUTS for analog audio signals
from a DVD, LV, VCR, TV, SAT,
CD, TAPE or AUX components
OUTPUTS VCR 1
and 2 supply analog
audio record signals
for recorders
DIGITAL OUTPUTS both
optical and coaxial, provide a
digital audio signal to an ex-
ternal digital processor
ZONE A FIXED
OUTPUTS send a
fixed line level, two
channel analog sig-
nal as selected by the
INPUT A control
ZONE B OUTPUTS
send a two channel
signal from the ana-
log inputs as selected
by the INPUT B
Control
TUNER INput/OUTput allows
for connecting an external tuner
to the MX135 when the optional
TM1 Module is not installed or
Tuner Audio Output Signals
when the TM1 is installed in the
MX135
ZONE A BALANCED OUTPUTS
contain the program signals for all
eight channels
BALANCED INPUTS
for two channel com-
ponent sources

12
Rear Panel Video Connections
INPUTS for Composite Video Signals
from a DVD, LV, VCR, TV, SAT, CD,
TAPE or AUX components
OUTPUTS for VCR 1 and 2
supply Composite Video
Signals for recorders
INPUTS for S-Video Signals from
a DVD, LV, VCR, TV, SAT, CD,
TAPE orAUX components
OUTPUT MONitor A
sends a Composite or
S-Video Signal to a
monitor/TV located in
Zone A
OUTPUTS for VCR 1
and 2 supply S-Video
Signals for recorders
OUTPUT MONitor B
sends a Composite or
S-Video Signal to a
monitor/TV located in
Zone B
COMPONENT INPUTS receive
Component Video (Y, PRand PB)
Signals from five Component
Video Sources
COMPONENT OUTPUTS send
Component Video (Y, PRand PB)
Signals to the ZONE AVideo
Monitor
Note: If the MX135 A/V System Control
Center has the TM1 AM/FM
Tuner Module installed, proceed
to page 53 for Rear Panel
Antenna Connection Information.

13
Home Controller
McIntosh CR16 Multizone Controller
McIntosh DVD Player
How to Connect Multizone, Data and Power Control
IR Sensor
1. Connect a Data Control Cable from the MX135 DVD
(input 11) Data Port to the McIntosh DVD Player Data
In Jack.
Note: By adding a McIntosh Remote Control Translator to
the MX135, non McIntosh Source Devices such as a
Satellite Receiver can be remotely controlled using a
McIntosh Remote Control and Keypads.
2. Connect a Data Control Cable from the MX135
HOME Data Port to the Home Controller Data In Jack.
3. Connect a 4 conductor shielded cable from the MX135
ZONE A KEYPAD Socket to a McIntosh WK-4 Key-
pad.
4. Connect a DB37 Cable, shielded straight through 37
How to Connect Multizone, Data and Power
Control conductor, from the MX135 TO MULTIZONE CON-
TROLLER Connector to the CR16 Multizone “Con-
troller Input B” socket.
5. Connect a Power Control Cable from the MX135
POWER CONTROLACC Jack to the McIntosh DVD
Player Power Control In Jack.
6. Connect a Power Control Cable from the MX135
POWER CONTROLA Jack to the McIntosh Powered
Subwoofer Power Control In Jack.
7. Connect a Power Control Cable from the McIntosh
Powered Subwoofer Power Control Out Jack to the
McIntosh Power Control AC Outlet Strip Power Con-
trol Jack.
8. Optionally, connect a Data Control Cable from the
MX135 IR INPUTS A to an external IR Sensor.
McIntosh WK-4 Keypad
McIntosh
Power
Control
McIntosh Powered Subwoofer

14
How to Connect Digital Audio Components
How to Connect Digital Audio Components
1. Connect a cable from the MX135 DIGITAL CO-
AXIAL DVD INPUT (Input F) to the McIntosh Co-
axial Digital Output of the McIntosh DVD Player.
2. Connect a cable from the MX135 SAT INPUT (Input
B) OPTICAL DIGITAL INPUT to the Optical Digital
Output of a Satellite Receiver.
3. Connect a cable from the MX135 LV INPUT (Input C)
OPTICAL DIGITAL INPUT to the Optical Digital
Output of a Digital Audio Recorder.
4. Connect a cable from the Digital Audio Recorder Input
to the MX135 OPTICAL DIGITAL OUTPUT.
McIntosh DVD Player
Digital IN Digital OUT
Digital Audio Recorder Satellite Receiver

15
How to Connect Audio Components for five or six channels
The MX135 accepts Analog Audio and Digital Audio Sig-
nal Inputs. It is important to connect the Analog Outputs
along with the Digital Audio Signal Output from source
components connected to the MX135. This will assure that
the audio from that source component is available to the
VCR1 and 2 Outputs, Zone B and optional CR16
Multizone System.
1. Connect a DB25 Cable, shielded straight through 25
conductor, from the MX135 MULTI-CHANNELAMP
Connector to the McIntosh Six Channel Power Ampli-
fier Multi-Channel Input Socket.
2. Connect a cable from the MX135 Analog Audio
INPUTs (Input 11) to the McIntosh 2 CHAudio Out-
puts of the McIntosh DVD Player.
3. Connect balanced cables from the MX135 ZONE A
BALANCED INPUTS 1 to the McIntosh Balanced Au-
dio Outputs of the McIntosh DVD Player.
4. Connect cables from the MX135 EXTERNALAudio
INPUTs to the McIntosh 5.1CH Audio Outputs of the
McIntosh DVD Player.
5. Connect a cable from the MX135 Left and Right Ana-
log Audio INPUTs (Input 6) to the Left and Right Ana-
log Audio Outputs of the Satellite Receiver.
6. Connect a cable from the MX135 VCR1 Audio OUT-
PUT (Output 9) to the VCR Audio Input.
7. Connect a cable from the MX135 VCR1Audio INPUT
(Input 9) to the VCRAudio Output.
8. Connect a cable from the MX135 LVAudio INPUT
(Input 8) to the Digital Audio Recorder Analog Output.
9. Connect a cable from the MX135 VCR2 Audio OUT-
PUT (Output 10) to Digital Audio Recorder Analog
Input.
10. Connect a cable from the
MX135 ZONEA
SUBwoofer OUTPUTS to
the McIntosh Powered
Subwoofer Line In Jack.
IN OUT
VCR Satellite
Receiver
McIntosh DVD Player
McIntosh Multichannel Power Amplifier
Analog OUT
Digital Audio Recorder
How to Connect Audio Components for five or
six channels
McIntosh Powered Subwoofer
Analog IN

16

17
Notes

18
McIntosh DVD Player
How to Connect Video Components
How to Connect Video Components
There are three types of Video Signals that can be con-
nected to and selected by the MX135; Composite, S-Video
and Component. The built-in Digital Video Processing Cir-
cuitry can Up-Convert the desired Composite Input to S-
Video; it will also Up-Convert the desired Composite or S-
Video Inputs to Component Video. Connect all of the avail-
able Source Component Video Outputs (Component, S-
Video and Composite), using the appropriate Video Cables
to the MX135. This will assure that video is available to
the Zone B and VCR Outputs. Refer to Input Setup Menu
on page 34 for additional information.
1. Connect video cables from the MX135 DVD VIDEO
INPUTS to the McIntosh Video Outputs of the McIn-
tosh DVD Player.
IN OUT
VCR
To AC
Outlet
2. Connect video cables from the MX135 DVD COMPO-
NENT INPUT 5 to the McIntosh Component Video
Outputs of the McIntosh DVD Player.
3. Connect video cables from the MX135 SAT VIDEO
INPUTS to the Video Outputs of a Satellite Receiver.
4. Connect video cables from the MX135 SAT COMPO-
NENT INPUT 1 to the McIntosh Component Video
Outputs of a Satellite Receiver.
5. Connect video cables from the MX135 VCR1 INPUTS
to the VCR Video Outputs.
6. Connect video cables from the MX135 VCR1 OUT-
PUTS to the VCR Video Inputs.
7. Connect video cables from the MX135 MON A COM-
PONENT OUTPUTS to the Monitor/TV Component
Video Inputs.
Note: If the Monitor/TV does not have Component Video
Inputs, then connect the MX135 MON A S-Video or
Composite Output(s) instead.
Monitor/TV
Note: If the MX135 A/V System
Control Center has the
TM1 AM/FM Tuner
Module installed, proceed
to page 54 for How to
Connect Antennas
Information.
Satellite Receiver

19
Monitor/TV
How to Connect for Zone B
The MX135 is a Dual Zone A/V Control Center. For Zone
B activation, a Power Amplifier and Loudspeakers are re-
quired and the addition of a McIntosh Sensor or Keypad
allows for more convenient operation. To provide the best
video quality for Zone B, it is important to use high quality
cables and keep the cable lengths as short as possible. If S-
Video Connections are used, make sure the cable’s signal
carrying wires are individually shielded.
Note: If Zone B will not be connected at this time, proceed to
step 5.
1. Connect a cable from the MX135 POWER CONTROL
B Jack to the McIntosh Power Amplifier Power Con-
trol In Jack.
2. Connect a cable from the MX135 ZONE B OUTPUTS
Left and Right to the McIntosh Power Amplifier Un-
balanced Left and Right Inputs.
McIntosh WK-4 Keypad
McIntosh Power Amplifier
Left
Loudspeaker
Right
Loudspeaker
3. Connect a cable from the MX135 KEYPADS ZONE B
to the McIntosh Keypad.
4. Connect a cable from the MX135 MON B S-Video
Socket to the Monitor/TV video input.
5. Connect the MX135 to a live AC Outlet.
How to Connect for Zone B
To AC
Outlet

20
Front Panel Controls and Sensor
Selects the parameter
for making audio and
front panel display ad-
justments
Allows up or down
adjustment for each
trim parameter
IR (Infra Red) Sensor
accepts IR signals di-
rectly from the Remote
Control
Selects which of the eleven Au-
dio/Video Sources or Tuner Sig-
nal is available for VCR Out-
puts, Zone B Audio Outputs and
MONitor B Video Outputs
Selects which of the eleven Audio/
Video Sources or Tuner Signal is avail-
able at the Zone A Audio Outputs,
Component and MONitor AVideo
Outputs
Adjusts the Listen
Volume Level of all
eight channels
Selects the desired audio
operating mode and selects
the external eight channel
input