High-end audio component manufacturer McIntosh is launching the MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier, a new amp designed to integrate into smaller living spaces while boasting compatibility with leading streaming technologies and platforms.
According to McIntosh, the $8,000 MSA550 comes with seven digital and five analog audio inputs to connect audio components. It is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect (including TIDAL HiFi Lossless Quality). Physical inputs include a turntable and HDMI (ARC) input for non-streaming use such as with a compatible TV.
The MSA5500 employs an audiophile-grade digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to convert digital signals into the analog format needed for playback. The Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit DAC features huge dynamic range and low distortion, the company says.
The amplifier also features Bluetooth streaming capabilities utilizing Bluetooth 5.0, the high bitrate Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) standard, Qualcomm aptX HD for hi-res audio playback, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, according to McIntosh.
McIntosh’s newest amp also has Roon Ready certification from Roon Labs, making it an endpoint device for use with the Roon music player.
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The company says the small but powerful MSA5500 provides the company’s flagship amplification, capable of delivering 100 watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 160 watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers.
McIntosh says the MSA5500 includes its other technologies such as Power Guard, Sentry Monitor, Monogrammed Heatsinks, Home Theater PassThru, Gold-plated Solid Cinch speaker binding posts, Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) and Power Control.
According to McIntosh, the MSA5500 is designed to support a wide range of audio needs and it operates without requiring a dedicated control app or advanced technical skills, offering user-friendly functionality. Boasting its versatility, the company says the internal amplifier can be bypassed when paired with a larger external amplifier, ensuring continued access to its streaming and preamplifier capabilities.
The MSA5500 is the company’s first product launch since being acquired by Bose last month.
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