McIntosh MSA 5500 Integrated amplifier

The McIntosh MSA5500 integrated amplifier is a near all-in-one component. It combines an integrated amplifier with a full-featured network streamer, a DAC, and a phono preamplifier! It allows for the creation of simple yet highly capable high-fidelity systems without multiplying separate components, all within a minimal footprint.

McIntosh MSA 5500: Front Panel

This McIntosh amplifier inherits the American manufacturer's pure DNA. The front panel features the iconic blue-lit VU meters. This glass faceplate is beautifully complemented by the traditional green backlighting of the indicators. On the left, a potentiometer manages inputs and system menu access. On the right, a similar knob controls volume and menu navigation. All source and status information is displayed on the center LED screen. Additionally, it features an excellent quality 6.35mm stereo jack headphone output.

McIntosh MSA 5500: Connectivity

The back of the McIntosh MSA 5500 offers a wealth of connectivity options! There are 4 RCA analog inputs, one XLR input, and a Moving Magnet (MM) phono input. On the digital side, it features 2 SPDIF coaxial digital inputs and 2 Toslink optical digital inputs. Furthermore, it offers an HDMI ARC digital input, a USB digital input, and an RJ45 network port. It also includes a Pre-Out, a Power Amp Main input, a single RCA subwoofer output, and control inputs (IR IN, RS232, DATA PORTS, etc.). Two Wi-Fi 6 antennas and a Bluetooth antenna ensure stable wireless connections.

McIntosh MSA 5500: Technologies

The MSA5500 is a versatile device offering a wide range of features, wired and digital connections, alongside wireless streaming. The MSA5500 is compatible with numerous cutting-edge streaming technologies and platforms, including Apple® AirPlay®, Bluetooth®, Google Cast™ (formerly Chromecast), Qobuz Connect, Spotify® Connect (including Spotify Lossless), and TIDAL® Connect (including TIDAL Max). No specific control app or advanced technical skills are required. For Bluetooth streaming, the MSA5500 utilizes Bluetooth 5.0, high-bitrate Advanced Audio Coding (AAC), and Qualcomm® aptX™ HD. To process digital music playback with the highest possible quality, the MSA5500 incorporates an audiophile-grade digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This next-generation 8-channel, 32-bit Quad Balanced DAC delivers extended dynamic range and ultra-low distortion, regardless of file format. Resolution reaches up to 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DXD352.8 kHz, and DXD384 kHz! The HDMI (ARC) input allows you to connect your TV and enjoy sound through your hi-fi system. Popular multichannel audio formats like Dolby® and DTS® are accurately downmixed to stereo for optimal playback. The subwoofer output makes it easy to add a powered subwoofer. The MSA5500 has received Roon Ready certification from Roon Labs, making it fully compatible with the Roon music ecosystem. Roon centralizes all your music and enriches it with a wealth of information: biographies, reviews, photos, lyrics, tour dates, and credits (with links to further info) for artists, songwriters, producers, audio engineers, and composers. Roon Ready network devices integrate Roon's proprietary streaming technology and are certified by Roon to deliver flawless quality and performance over network streaming. The MSA 5500 has also received Roon Tested certification, having been thoroughly tested by Roon to guarantee simple setup and intuitive daily operation.

McIntosh MSA 5500: Sonic Performance

The MSA 5500 is McIntosh's first foray into the "all-in-one" category, and we can safely say it is a true success! It immediately stands out by prioritizing the lively side and natural spontaneity of music! Its tonal balance leans towards "warm," and its bass response is surprisingly deep. Highs are precise without any harsh preeminence. The McIntosh MSA5500 is astonishing in its ability to reproduce the dynamics and impact of percussive instruments. Its rich, warm rendering combined with its dynamic punch makes this amplifier impressive across any musical genre, though it is most demonstrative on Rock, Blues, Jazz, or electronic music. With 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, pairing it with speakers boasting a sensitivity between 88 and 94 dB poses absolutely no challenge in terms of dynamics and driver control. This is a device that favors the vibrant, "live" feel of music with astonishing musicality!

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