Russound MBX-PRE

Russound MBX-PRE, network streaming to add to your system

Adding network streaming to a hi-fi system or a multiroom installation without replacing the electronics already in place: that is the role of this compact Russound unit. The MBX-PRE connects to an existing amplifier or controller and gives it access to online services, Bluetooth and files on the home network, in high resolution up to 24-bit/192 kHz.

A compact playback module

Measuring 21 cm wide, 17.8 cm deep and 4.5 cm high, the MBX-PRE can be placed behind an amplifier, in a cabinet or in a technical room without taking up much space. It weighs 450 grams and operates from an external 12 V DC, 1.25 A power supply. Unlike the MBX-AMP, which includes a stereo amplifier, the MBX-PRE does not amplify the signal: it is a source, or more precisely a preamplifier, which must be connected to a power amplifier. Both units share the same network playback section, with the MBX-PRE simply providing the audio stream.

Online services and network music

The MBX-PRE includes AirPlay 2 and Google Cast with full metadata display in iOS and Android applications or on the XTS7 wall-mounted touchscreen. Bluetooth and access to common streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, Deezer and Internet radio are also included, controlled from the app. For music already stored at home, the MBX-PRE plays UPnP and DLNA shares from a NAS and features a USB 2.0 port for connecting a USB drive or a self-powered external hard drive.

As for files, it supports MP3 (constant or variable bitrate), WAV, OGG Vorbis, FLAC and AAC/AAC+, the latter accepted up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Frequency response covers the audible range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

Standalone source or whole-home system

There are two possible uses. As a standalone unit, the MBX-PRE becomes a streaming zone connected to any amplifier or receiver, regardless of brand. Integrated with a Russound SMZ or MCA series controller, it is recognized as a fully fledged source and can then be controlled from the system’s keypads and screens, such as the IPK-1 or XTS7.

Scalability is the series’ strong point. By combining several MBX, MBX-PRE and MBX-AMP units, a single installation can cover up to 32 zones. With a Russound multiroom controller, the system can reach up to 8 independent sources and 48 sound-equipped rooms. One point to note for synchronized multiroom: playback distributed across several zones is handled through the My Russound app, while AirPlay and Google Cast target one unit at a time.

Connections to the amplifier and local sources

Audio output is available via either analog RCA line level (2 V RMS) or digital optical. This is where the “PRE” suffix makes sense: the analog output can be set to fixed or variable mode. In variable mode, the MBX-PRE controls volume and can drive a power amplifier directly, without a separate preamplifier. In fixed mode, it feeds the input of an integrated amplifier or controller that retains control over the level. A 12 V, 100 mA trigger output automatically turns on the connected amplifier.

The unit also accepts a local source via a 3.5 mm mini-jack analog input and a digital optical input, convenient for connecting a television or another device in the room. Network connection is provided via dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11ac or 10/100 RJ45 Ethernet. Bass, treble and volume settings are adjusted from the Russound app.

App control and certified installation

Control is provided through the My Russound app on a smartphone or tablet, the IPK-1 wall keypad, the XTS7 touchscreen, or by voice via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. One point to consider before purchase: the MBX-PRE is part of Russound’s certified installer program. Delivered locked, it produces no sound until a certified installer has unlocked and configured it using the browser-accessible Web Config utility. Configuration is then carried out from a smartphone or tablet. This framework ensures clean integration, but requires an approved professional for commissioning.

Technical Specifications

Audio

• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• High-resolution audio streaming up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Supported file formats:
  • MP3 (constant bit rate CBR, variable bit rate VBR)
  • WAV (8, 16-bit)
  • OGG Vorbis
  • FLAC (8, 16-bit)
  • AAC, AAC+ (support up to 24-bit / 192 kHz)
• Digital (PCM) and analog stereo inputs
• Digital or analog output (analog output configurable as fixed or variable)
• Bass, treble, and volume settings available via the Russound app

Connections

• Audio outputs:
  • Analog stereo RCA
  • Digital optical
  • Line-level audio output: 2 V RMS
• Audio inputs:
  • 3.5 mm analog stereo audio
  • Digital optical
  • USB 2.0 port (media playback)
• Communication ports:
  • Ethernet RJ45 10 / 100 Base-T
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11ac standard, dual-band
  • Bluetooth audio support
• Trigger output: 12 V DC at 100 mA

Wireless streaming and connectivity

• Built-in AirPlay 2 streaming with full metadata to iOS / Android apps or XTS7 touchscreens
• Google Cast integration for audio support with full metadata to iOS / Android apps or XTS7 touchscreens
• Bluetooth audio
• Music collections on USB flash drive or external USB hard drive

Control and integration

• Controllable via the Russound app, the IPK-1 keypad, and the XTS7 in-wall touchscreen
• Can be integrated (as a source) with a Russound SMZ or MCA series controller, or used standalone (as a zone) with any brand of amplifier or receiver
• Can be combined with other MBX series components for flexible system designs
• Built-in browser-based configuration, accessible from a smartphone or tablet

Physical characteristics

• Power required: 12 V DC, 1.25 A
• Product dimensions (W x D x H): 21 cm x 17.8 cm x 4.5 cm
• Product weight: 0.45 kg
• Shipping dimensions (W x D x H): 25.1 cm x 29.2 cm x 10.6 cm
• Shipping weight: 1.2 kg