Musical Fidelity M5 xi Amplifier

The new Musical Fidelity M5xi integrated amplifier is a significant evolution of the award-winning M5si. Like the M6xi, it incorporates part of the technology developed for the manufacturer’s prestigious TITAN range.

The M5xi is in fact a fully analog preamplifier combined with a power amplifier within the same chassis.

Its impressive specifications make it an extremely versatile integrated amplifier, capable of driving demanding high-end Hi-Fi loudspeakers with ease.

Musical Fidelity M5xi: front panel

As with all Musical Fidelity components, the front panel of the M5xi follows a very understated design philosophy. It is machined from thick, solid extruded aluminum. The M5xi is available in two finishes: black aluminum or natural aluminum.

Its minimalist appearance still includes all essential controls. At the center sits a large rotary volume knob, flanked by small push buttons for selecting between the 9 available sources.

A classic power button is positioned on the far left.

Musical Fidelity M5xi: rear panel

On the rear panel, the M5xi offers 4 RCA line-level inputs. It also includes a pre-out output for an external power amplifier, as well as a line-out connection for a recorder or headphone amplifier.

Musical Fidelity has added an excellent phono stage with a switch allowing selection between MM and MC cartridges. This section has been significantly improved compared to the previous model, benefiting from enhanced shielding and circuit optimizations for lower noise, reduced distortion and improved transparency. It is compatible with moving magnet cartridges as well as both high-output and low-output moving coil cartridges.

The M5xi also features a digital board completely isolated from the analog circuitry. It provides coaxial, optical and USB-C digital inputs supporting high-resolution formats up to 24-bit / 192 kHz, as well as an HDMI eARC input for audio/video systems. There is also a USB-B audio input paired with an asynchronous DAC compatible with digital signals up to 24-bit / 96 kHz.

At each end of the chassis, the speaker outputs use high-quality WBT terminals compatible with banana plugs and spade connectors.

It should also be noted that the “AUX1” input can be switched into bypass mode via a dedicated switch.

Power is supplied through a standard IEC connector, allowing future upgrades with a higher-quality power cable.

Musical Fidelity M5xi: features

Musical Fidelity states that the technology used in the M5xi is derived directly from the manufacturer’s famous high-end Titan amplifier.

The M5xi delivers 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms and can exceed 450 watts peak into 4 ohms. Each channel uses a dual push-pull output stage with Sanken Darlington transistors. This low-distortion design, based on Musical Fidelity’s classic topology, eliminates crossover artifacts while maintaining extremely low residual distortion. It allows the M5xi to preserve outstanding transparency and tonal accuracy across the entire frequency range.

The Musical Fidelity M5xi is powered by a large encapsulated dual-winding toroidal transformer. Each winding independently powers one channel. This substantial power reserve and stability enable it to drive a wide range of Hi-Fi loudspeakers with authority.

The preamplifier section operates entirely in Class A. This choice ensures excellent transparency and impressive dynamics while maintaining extremely low noise and superb analog signal integrity. The stepped volume control also provides superior channel matching compared to traditional potentiometers.

It should be noted that the digital and ARC boards are physically separated on their own PCBs and benefit from dedicated linear power supplies.

The Musical Fidelity M5xi is supplied with a redesigned remote control featuring a more elegant design and improved ergonomics. It is intended to offer universal compatibility across the manufacturer’s M-Line range, including amplifiers, CD players and DACs.

Musical Fidelity M5xi: test and listening impressions

The Musical Fidelity M5xi is the worthy successor to the M5si, a benchmark amplifier in its category for many years. Naturally, all the qualities of the previous model are present here, enhanced by the refinements and improvements of this latest generation.

From the very first notes, the amplifier demonstrates its ease in driving loudspeakers, even models that are known to be difficult to power.

The sound is both highly dynamic and powerful while remaining nuanced and refined. The current delivery and power reserves of the M5xi ensure perfect control of bass drivers, resulting in outstanding clarity, grip and impact in the low frequencies.

The M5xi is highly transparent and detailed without ever sounding clinical or fatiguing. It reveals everything without emphasizing any specific part of the frequency range. Its frequency response feels exceptionally linear, promoting realism and naturalness. The soundstage is impressive in terms of scale, openness and especially precision.

Its digital inputs are also genuinely excellent. When paired with a quality network streamer, the results are extremely impressive.

The phono stage is truly usable and delivers a level of quality rarely found in integrated amplifiers within this price range, especially with MC cartridges.

The Musical Fidelity M5xi achieves a remarkable level of performance and sound quality for a product in this category. It delivers a reproduction worthy of far more expensive high-end components. However, for listeners seeking even greater refinement, the Musical Fidelity M6xi pushes the concept even further in every aspect.

The Musical Fidelity M5xi integrated amplifier is an undeniable success that will satisfy music lovers looking for a powerful, musical and highly versatile amplifier.