McIntosh Laboratory has introduced the MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier. Announced shortly after McIntosh’s acquisition by Bose, the MSA5500 is designed to cater to audiophiles seeking a versatile, compact unit capable of handling modern streaming demands while maintaining McIntosh's signature style and performance. The MSA5500 combines advanced digital capabilities with robust analog connectivity, positioning itself as a centerpiece for home audio systems.
The MSA5500 supports a wide array of streaming technologies and platforms, including Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect, which offers HiFi lossless quality. Bluetooth 5.0 support includes compatibility with high-resolution audio codecs such as Qualcomm aptX HD and aptX Adaptive, ensuring seamless playback from smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Additionally, the amplifier is Roon Ready certified, enabling integration with Roon's music management software.
Physical connectivity is equally robust, featuring seven digital and five analog audio inputs. This includes a moving magnet (MM) phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts and an HDMI ARC input for connecting a smart TV. The unit also includes dual coaxial and optical inputs, balanced and unbalanced analog inputs, and a subwoofer output, ensuring flexibility for various setups.
The MSA5500’s internal amplifier delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms or 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms, making it suitable for both bookshelf and floor-standing speakers. The amplifier’s performance is enhanced by McIntosh's proprietary Power Guard technology, which prevents clipping, and Sentry Monitor, which protects the output stage from exceeding safe operating levels.
At the core of the MSA5500 is a next-generation quad-balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Capable of decoding PCM signals up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD512, the DAC ensures a wide dynamic range with minimal distortion. This level of digital performance supports audiophiles who demand exceptional clarity and detail from their digital sources.
The MSA5500 retains McIntosh’s iconic design elements, including a black glass front panel, blue Watt meters, and illuminated logo. The physical controls include rotary knobs for volume and input selection, making the device accessible without reliance on additional apps or software.
A headphone output equipped with McIntosh’s Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) technology is located on the front panel. HXD enhances the headphone listening experience by simulating the spatial effects of loudspeakers.
Technical Specifications:
| Number of Channels | 2 (left and right) |
| Power Output (per channel) | 100 W (8 ohms), 160 W (4 ohms) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 0.005% |
| Dynamic Headroom | 1.8dB |
| Frequency Response | +0, -0.5dB: 20Hz to 20kHz0, -3dB: 10Hz to 100kHz |
| Input Sensitivity (Phono – Moving Magnet) | 2.5mV |
| Input Sensitivity (Balanced/Unbalanced) | 0.5V/0.25V |
| Signal to Noise Ratio (Phono – Moving Magnet) | 82dB |
| Signal to Noise Ratio (Balanced/Unbalanced) | 95dB |
| Signal to Noise Ratio (Power Amp Input) | 110dB |
| Input Impedance (Balanced / Unbalanced) | 20K/20K Ohms |
| Damping Factor | 8 ohms: >2004 ohms: >100 |
| DAC | 8-channel, 32-bit/384kHz PCM/DSD, Quad Balanced |
| Streaming Support | Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect (including HiFi Lossless Quality) |
| Bluetooth Support | Bluetooth ver 5.0, Advanced Audio Coding (AAC); Qualcomm aptX HD, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive |
| Internet Connectivity | WiFi 6, Ethernet |
| Inputs | 1 x Balanced4 x Unbalanced1 x Phono Input (Moving Magnet)2 x Digital Coaxial2 x Optical1 x MCT (McIntosh Controlled Transport)1 x USB1 x HDMI (ARC) |
| Outputs | 1 x Unbalanced Variable Preamp Output1 x Subwoofer Output1 x Headphone Output |
| Home Theater PassThru | Yes |
| Speaker Terminals | Standard binding posts |
| Unit Dimensions (WHD) | 17.5 x 6 x 18.75 inches with vertical antenna44.45 x 15.2 x 47.6 cm with vertical antenna |
| Unit Weight | 38 lbs (17.2 kg) |
| Price | $8,000 |
While the MSA5500 is designed as an all-in-one solution, it also provides room for future upgrades. Its preamp outputs allow users to bypass the internal amplifier and connect external power amplifiers for higher-powered systems. A Home Theater PassThru function facilitates integration with home theater setups, while gold-plated Solid Cinch speaker binding posts ensure secure speaker connections.
The McIntosh MSA5500 is aimed at audiophiles who want a compact yet feature-rich amplifier capable of handling modern streaming needs. It also appeals to those who value the brand’s design and engineering legacy. Available in December 2024 through authorized dealers, the MSA5500 carries a price tag of $8,000, £9,995, €9,990, or $11,200 CAD.
Related:
