Beovision MX 3500

The MX 3500 marked a change in direction for the MX series televisions, which had previously been an entry-level range of poor-performing models based on other manufacturer’s chassis. The MX 3500 represented the initial model of a new range that used a unified chassis of B&O design shared with the upmarket LX models, and so for the first time brought a full measure of B&O functionality and B&O quality to the MX range. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.

The MX 3500 used much the same cabinet as the MX 3000, but apart from this and the loudspeakers everything else was new. The tube used was a smaller version of the Philips 45AX that had been seen in all the LX series models, and was far more satisfactory than the various types tried in the previous small MX sets. The B&O chassis was small enough when assembled to fit easily inside the slim cabinet, and included features such as two AV connections, Powerlink connections for active and amplified loudspeakers, audio Aux link for AV integration and a connection for a motorised base. A two-way IR system was also included, which although it served no function for normal television viewing, was very useful when using the set in a Beolink system. Also in the interests of link operation, the mains switch was removed, and the set remained on standby whilst not in use. UK versions of the set included a Nicam decoder as standard equipment, along with a computer controlled teletext decoder. Previous mistakes in the routing of the teletext signals made in the MX 3000 were corrected, so the teletext display and comprehensive menu system were displayed in rich, clear colours. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.

An optional built-in satellite receiver was made available, as was a picture-in-picture (PIP) unit. The latter was as the result of a change in ideas that the PIP unit should be in the television and not in a video recorder. The matching video recorder for this series was the Beocord VX 5500. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.

The MX range really came of age with the 3500, and from then on was no longer the poor relation. The MX 3500 was replaced by the MX 4000. Text copyright © Beocentral. Unauthorised reproduction prohibited.