The Halcro will process up to 7.1 LPCM over HDMI. The McIntosh will not. If you are looking for something to work with Blu-Ray definately pick the Halcro. The new Classe SSP-800 will new process audio over HDMI as well.
I would imagine the McIntosh will show a replacement to the MX-136 in a few months.
I would imagine the McIntosh will show a replacement to the MX-136 in a few months.