McIntosh Laboratory MT5

The McIntosh MT5 Precision Turntable is a high-performance analog playback system designed to deliver accurate and realistic sound reproduction. 

Design and Build

• Base: The MT5 features a sturdy plinth with a resonance-optimized base made from polished stainless steel and acrylic, providing a vibration-free foundation for the tonearm.

• Platter: The turntable includes a dynamically balanced silicon acrylic platter with a magnetic suspended ceramic bearing, ensuring smooth rotation and minimal vibration.

• Dimensions: Measures 17-1/2 inches (44.45 cm) in width, 7 inches (17.8 cm) in height, and 19 inches (48.26 cm) in depth. With the dust cover, the height increases to 7-1/2 inches (19.0 cm).

• Weight: Weighs approximately 31.5 lbs (14.3 kg).

Motor and Drive System

• Motor Type: DC motor with stainless steel brushes, providing quiet operation and stability.

• Drive Type: Belt-driven system for smooth operation and reduced motor vibrations.

• Speed Control: Servo system for precise speed control, allowing playback at 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, and 78 RPM.

Tonearm and Cartridge

• Tonearm: Constructed from dural-aluminum with magnetic sapphire and ceramic bearings, ensuring precise tracking and minimal friction.

• Cartridge: Equipped with a high-output moving coil cartridge featuring an elliptical diamond stylus and aluminum cantilever. The cartridge has an output level of 2.5 mV at 5 cm/s and a recommended load impedance of 1000 Ohms.

• Cartridge Specifications:
  Type: Moving Coil, High Output
  Output Level: 2.5 mV at 5 cm/s
  Load Impedance: 1000 Ohms recommended
  Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 50 kHz
  Channel Separation: 35 dB at 1 kHz
  Compliance: 15 x 10^-6 cm/dyne
  Recommended Tracking Force: 2.0 g
  Channel Difference: Less than 0.5 dB at 1 kHz
  Total Mass: 6.3 g
  Stylus: Elliptical Diamond
  Cantilever Material: Aluminum.

Connectivity and Features

• Outputs: Unbalanced stereo RCA output for connection to a phono preamplifier.

• Power Control: Includes power control input and output.

• Platter Light: Features an illuminated platter for ambiance.

• Dust Cover: Clear, form-fitting dust cover included to protect the turntable and records.

Additional Features

• Setup: Factory-adjusted for perfect playback, with tracking force, anti-skate force, cartridge overhang, and arm height preset for maximum performance.

• Sound Quality: Known for delivering smooth and powerful sound with excellent stability and quiet operation