The McIntosh MSA5500 functions as a comprehensive music streamer and power amplifier, making it an essential component for any audio setup. Whether you are venturing into high-fidelity sound for the first time, enhancing an existing system, or utilizing it in a workspace or vacation residence, this device is well-suited for your needs. Its sleek and compact design is tailored for contemporary living environments, making it an excellent option for those seeking premium audio in limited spaces. The adaptable McIntosh MSA5500 offers an extensive array of wireless streaming capabilities alongside multiple physical inputs for connecting various source devices. For those whose music collections are entirely cloud-based, achieving superior sound quality is as simple as setting up a pair of speakers.
The McIntosh MSA5500 is designed to work seamlessly with a range of popular streaming technologies and platforms, such as Apple® AirPlay®, Bluetooth®, Google Cast™ (previously known as Chromecast), Spotify® Connect, and TIDAL® Connect, which includes support for TIDAL HiFi lossless streaming. There is no need for a specialized control app or advanced technical knowledge; the user-friendly McIntosh MSA5500 allows you to stream music effortlessly from your smart device. Transitioning from a lower-quality wireless home audio system to the McIntosh MSA5500 will provide a transformative listening experience, making your favorite tracks feel fresh and new.
For Bluetooth streaming, the McIntosh MSA5500 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, supports the Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) standard, and incorporates Qualcomm® aptX™ HD technology for high-resolution audio playback. Additionally, it features Qualcomm aptX Adaptive technology, ensuring a reliable and high-quality audio experience over Bluetooth. The device is also outfitted with two Wi-Fi 6 antennas and one Bluetooth antenna to maintain a stable wireless connection, while an Ethernet port is available for those who prefer a wired setup.
To elevate your digital listening experience, the McIntosh MSA5500 incorporates a premium digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that transforms digital signals into the analog format essential for playback. This advanced 8-channel, 32-bit, quad-balanced DAC boasts an extensive dynamic range and minimal distortion. Regardless of the file format, you can expect exceptional sound quality and impeccable audio reproduction. The MSA5500 is certified Roon Ready by Roon Labs, positioning it as the ideal companion for the Roon music player. Roon consolidates all your music and enriches it with extensive information, including biographies, reviews, images, lyrics, tour dates, and connections to artists, songwriters, producers, engineers, and composers. Roon Ready network devices are equipped with Roon streaming technology and are certified to provide the highest standards of network streaming quality and performance.
The McIntosh MSA5500 not only excels in streaming but also offers a comprehensive array of connectivity options, including 7 digital and 5 analog audio inputs. These inputs facilitate the connection of various audio devices, such as CD players and tuners, along with a dedicated moving magnet input for turntables. The digital inputs are designed for high-resolution audio playback, with the USB input capable of handling native DSD512 and DXD playback up to 384 kHz, while the coaxial and optical inputs support digital music decoding up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
Additionally, the device features an HDMI (ARC) input, enabling connection to a compatible television for an enhanced audio experience that surpasses the capabilities of standard TV speakers or soundbars. It adeptly converts popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby® and DTS® into two-channel output for optimal playback. Furthermore, the subwoofer output allows for the connection of a robust subwoofer, enhancing the audio experience by delivering deep bass and low-frequency notes.
The McIntosh MSA5500 power amplifier section exemplifies the limitless potential of exceptional sound. It provides 100 watts per channel for 8 ohm speakers and 160 watts per channel for 4 ohm speakers, ensuring sufficient power for a diverse array of speakers, including our classic ML1 Mk II, XR50 bookshelf, and XR100 floorstanding models, among others. The power output is monitored in real time through fast-responding dual-scale wattmeters, illuminated in McIntosh’s iconic blue, offering a clear view of the amplifier’s performance.
As your audio requirements change, the McIntosh MSA5500 is designed to adapt. Should you decide to upgrade to a larger space or invest in more powerful speakers, you can easily bypass the built-in amplifier and connect an external, higher-power amplifier while still utilizing the MSA5500’s user-friendly streaming and preamplifier features. You can trust that the McIntosh MSA5500 will accommodate your evolving needs, establishing itself as your enduring audio companion.
McIntosh MSA5500 specifications:
- Number of Channels: 2 (Left and Right)
- Output Power (Per Channel):
- 100W (8 Ohms)
- 160W (4 Ohms)
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.005%
- Headroom: 1.8 dB
- Frequency Response:
- +0, -0.5 dB: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- 0, -3 dB: 10 Hz to 100 kHz
- Input Sensitivity:
- Phono (Moving Magnet): 2.5 mV
- Balanced/Unbalanced: 0.5 V / 0.25 V
- Power Amplifier Input: 1 V
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR):
- Phono (Moving Magnet): 82 dB
- Balanced/Unbalanced: 95 dB
- Power Amplifier Input: 110 dB
- Input Impedance:
- Balanced: 20 kOhms
- Unbalanced: 20 kOhms
- Damping Factor:
- 8 Ohms: >200
- 4 Ohms: >100
- DAC: 8-channel, 32-bit/384kHz PCM/DSD, Quad Balanced
- Streaming Support:
- Apple AirPlay
- Bluetooth
- Google Cast (formerly Chromecast)
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect (including TIDAL Hi-Fi Lossless Quality)
- Bluetooth Support:
- Bluetooth version 5.0
- Advanced Audio Coding (AAC)
- Qualcomm aptX HD
- Qualcomm aptX Adaptive
- Internet Connection:
- WiFi 6
- Ethernet
- Inputs:
- 1 x balanced
- 4 x unbalanced
- 1 x moving magnet phono input (fixed load)
- 2 x digital coaxial
- 2 x optical
- 1 x MCT (McIntosh Controlled Transport)
- 1 x USB
- 1 x HDMI (ARC)
- Outputs:
- 1 x unbalanced variable pre-out
- 1 x subwoofer output
- 1 x headphone output
How much does it cost and where can I buy it if so desire.