John Darko
McIntosh has announced the MSA5500: a streaming integrated amplifier that applies 100wpc into 8 Ohms (or 160 Watts into 4 Ohms) of Class A/B amplification to streams arriving via aptX Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Cast. It is also Roon Ready.
However, McIntosh is keeping schtum about the DAC chip that sits at the centre of the DAC circuit, only saying that it’s a 32-bit/8-channel model. That same internal D/A converter circuit is accessible via the MSA5500’s seven (!) digital inputs: 2 x TOSLINK, 2 x coaxial, USB, HDMI ARC and Ethernet/Wifi. Those are joined by five analogue inputs, including one balanced XLR and one MM phono input.
Pre-amplifier outputs, power amplifier inputs (aka HT Bypass), a subwoofer output, Power Guard®, Sentry Monitor™, Monogrammed Heatsinks™, Gold-plated Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts, a headphone socket with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®) and – of course – McIntosh’s iconic Blue VU meters round out the feature set.
Just add loudspeakers.
From the press release: “The MSA5500 is crafted to perfection and intended to seamlessly integrate into a variety of spaces and equipment. With lots of functionality in its compact size, the MSA5500 is the perfect choice for smaller living spaces – making it a city-dwelling audiophile’s dream – with timeless McIntosh aesthetics that epitomize audio sophistication.”
The MSA5500 begins shipping in December with an RRP of US$8000, €9990 or £9995.
Further information: McIntosh
