The M5 series has always been the brand's more accessible high-end segment. Now there is a new one: the M5xi. The Musical Fidelity M5xi is a Class AB integrated amplifier inspired by the flagship Titan, featuring an HDMI eARC input, an updated onboard phono amplifier, analog and digital inputs, and 160 watts per channel.
Very complete integrated amplifier
According to the designers, the new M5xi is not a simple update with a different logo and some new firmware, but a new design featuring amplifier technology inspired by the Titan. Furthermore, the manufacturer has built in a phono amplifier that finally supports not only MM cartridges but also MC cartridges, and HDMI eARC for anyone who wants to enjoy solid stereo sound during a movie night.
According to Musical Fidelity, the M5xi is a clear improvement over the previous M5si, with the preamp, power amp, digital module, and phono input all receiving a fresh overhaul. The key innovation is a revised circuit approach that brings the M5xi closer to the company's more robust Titan style (also found in the aforementioned M6 series), but in an integrated amplifier that does not require an entire audio cabinet, nor does it break the bank.
The M5xi looks very similar to the previously launched M6xi , but the power output is slightly lower and the XLR connections have been dropped. Musical Fidelity sticks to the idea of 'two mono amplifiers in one enclosure' and states that the M5xi is essentially a preamplifier with two independent mono power amplifiers in the same chassis. This means that left and right remain more separated than with a typical integrated amplifier, which can help keep the stereo reproduction clear, even when the mix threatens to become a wall of sound.
We are seeing two-channel amplifiers equipped with an HDMI eARC connection increasingly often. Most film enthusiasts want good sound, but far from everyone wants a multi-channel setup with the associated price tag, space requirements, and cables in the listening room. The M5XI fully embraces this trend, just like the earlier M6xi.
In addition to HDMI, there are also optical and coaxial digital inputs, plus a USB-C input that supports playback up to 24-bit/192kHz. Traditional sources are also supported, i.e., RCA line inputs and a home cinema bypass. Streaming enthusiasts also get an isolated 5V/2A USB-A power output, intended to power a USB streamer via a cleaner power supply than the average AC adapter. Add RS232 for custom installation control, pre-outs for bi-amping or a subwoofer, and a fixed line output for, for example, a separate headphone amplifier, and the M5xi starts to look more like a system hub than just an integrated amplifier.
Musical Fidelity states that the phono amplifier under the hood of the M5xi is completely new compared to the M5si, featuring improved shielding and a revised layout aimed at reducing noise and distortion. Both MM and MC cartridges are accepted.
The volume is controlled by a Burr-Brown stepped control. This is a precise volume control with stepped operation. As a result, the left and right channels remain better aligned than with a typical rotary knob, even after several years. After all, a traditional potentiometer, even the expensive models, is subject to wear and tear and will sooner or later exhibit channel imbalance. The Burr-Brown stepped control is based on a chip (which operates analogously) and does not wear out.
The designers emphasize the output stages built according to the well-known low-distortion Darlington architecture (a transistor combination often used for delivering high current) and a revised PCB layout to reduce imbalances that would otherwise require corrective feedback.
The M5xi has a specified power output of 160 Watts per channel at eight Ohms, rising to 240 Watts at four Ohms. This is more than enough power to effortlessly drive a wide range of speakers, even those with decreasing impedance precisely when the tension in the music builds.
The digital and HDMI cards are separate and each supplied with its own linear power supply, while the transformer and power supply board are housed in a metal enclosure to reduce electromagnetic interference. This is particularly important due to the presence of a phono amplifier in the same enclosure.
Construction-wise, the all-metal housing of the M5xi is designed to minimize interference, complemented by a robust aluminium front panel. This is roughly the same construction as the M6xi. The updated IR remote control now also features a Standby and Mute function.
The Musical Fidelity M5xi reportedly has a suggested retail price of just under $2,300, but we have not yet received any delivery information.
