Around the size of a typical smartphone, the MHA50 is a headphone amplifier and DAC capable of connecting directly to iOS and Android devices that are compatible with USB On-The-Go technology.

It will also connect wireless via Bluetooth AptX 4.1.

Phil Sawyer, Managing Director at Synergy Audio Visual who represent McIntosh in Australia told StereoNET:

The McIntosh MHA50 features a high-performance 32-bit digital-to-analog converter and it will decode music files from almost any digital source. It then outputs audio that is superior to what your device alone can produce. It supports 32-bit/192kHz hi-res audio, DSD256 and DXD384 files as well as asynchronous USB audio.

With a 3,000 mAh rechargeable battery McIntosh say it will provide up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge when connected via Bluetooth, and even longer when using a wired connection.

Built primarily from durable extruded aluminum it looks every bit McIntosh, and the sleek design features a glass front panel with a touch sensitive volume control knob inspired by the classic knobs found on countless McIntosh products.

There are two gain settings to allow MHA50 to work with a variety of headphones and McIntosh say it will drive headphones with impedances ranging from 8-600 ohms.

The 3.5mm gold plated headphone jack can also be connected to a pair of powered desktop speakers allowing standalone desktop DAC use.

The McIntosh MHA50 will sell locally for $1,195 RRP and come supplied with three USB adapter cables to connect various devices, a leather carrying case, and a wall mount charger. It will be available in October 2017.

For more information visit the McIntosh brand page.