McIntosh Announces MSA5500 Compact Streaming Amp
McIntosh, the luxury audio brand recently in the spotlight after being acquired by the Bose Group, has unveiled its latest creation – the MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier.
Designed to pack heaps of functionality into a compact and stylish form, it just might become the go-to high-end solution for those who want quality sound in smaller living spaces with that unmistakable McIntosh charm.
It certainly looks to be built for versatility. Whether it's streaming favourite playlists or spinning vinyl, the MSA5500 can manage it. Streaming enthusiasts will appreciate its support for Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect, including lossless playback with TIDAL HiFi. Bluetooth is here too, and not just any Bluetooth – we're talking high-res streaming with AAC, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive codecs. It's also Roon Ready, which means it slots straight into your Roon music library setup with zero fuss.
When it comes to plugging in gear, McIntosh doesn't hold back. Thanks to the built-in moving magnet phono stage, plus seven digital and five analog inputs cater to all your devices – think CD players, FM tuners, and even your beloved turntable. And if you're planning to hook it up to your TV for a superior home theatre experience, the HDMI ARC input has your back, offering seamless integration with volume, power, and mute control right from the amp.
Despite its smaller footprint, the MSA5500 doesn't skimp on power. A quick peruse of spec sheets reports 100 watts per channel into 8-ohm speakers or 160 watts per channel into 4-ohms, meaning anything up to decent-sized floor standers with headroom to spare. At its core is a high-grade Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit DAC, which should ensure excellent clarity, dynamic range, and ultra-low distortion for digital sources.
McIntosh hasn't forgotten its signature touches, either. From Power Guard and Sentry Monitor to Monogrammed Heatsinks and Gold-Plated Solid Cinch binding posts, this amp looks to have durability and reliability covered. And for those thinking long-term, the MSA5500 can even be used as a streaming source or pre-amp, giving you the flexibility to upgrade your system down the track.
While it's certainly an investment, this compact powerhouse offers an impressive all-in-one solution for music and home entertainment enthusiasts.
The MSA5500 will launch in December is available for preorder now. It will sell in Australia for $16,495 RRP.
For more information visit McIntosh
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Jason Sexton
Joining StereoNET in 2025 as Deputy Editor, Australia & New Zealand, Jason’s decades of experience comes from a marketing, brand development, and communications background. More recently, a decade in specialist retail has armed him with the knowledge required to deliver the right information to a captive and curious audience.
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