Putting a digital crossover in between the preamp/amp ports is indeed the best route.
A MiniDSP SHD is <$100, includes DIRAC (though REW to get it initially setup still needs to be done), and it’s DAC clean enough (SINAD better than 109dB, it’s like Signal-to-Noise Ratio, this also includes distortion) and powerful enoguh (2Vrms, your McIntosh only needs 1Vrms).
I always recommend DSP for subs in a quality setup (unless you aren’t tech-savvy), as dual/ten/quad subs and even a good amount of bass traps still won’t be perfect (neither is DSP, but helps get you there).
A MiniDSP SHD is <$100, includes DIRAC (though REW to get it initially setup still needs to be done), and it’s DAC clean enough (SINAD better than 109dB, it’s like Signal-to-Noise Ratio, this also includes distortion) and powerful enoguh (2Vrms, your McIntosh only needs 1Vrms).
I always recommend DSP for subs in a quality setup (unless you aren’t tech-savvy), as dual/ten/quad subs and even a good amount of bass traps still won’t be perfect (neither is DSP, but helps get you there).