McIntosh
McIntosh MSA5500 streaming integrated amp
Best all-in-one system for audiophiles seeking premium sound and modern connectivity.
Experience elevated audio with the McIntosh MSA5500 streaming integrated amplifier. This all-in-one solution combines a powerful 100W amplifier with advanced streaming capabilities, delivering McIntosh's signature sound. Seamlessly stream music via AirPlay, Google Cast, or Bluetooth, and connect your turntable with the dedicated MM phono input. The HDMI ARC input enhances your TV's audio, making all your entertainment sound richer. With its Roon-Ready certification and Quad Balanced DAC, the MSA5500 offers unparalleled clarity and dynamic range for a truly immersive listening experience.
$8000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
40
/ 560
#40 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
+204%
Above average
FTC Power Output Rating
100
/ W
Who it's for
- Owners of power-hungry speakers needing clean, authoritative amplification
- Design-conscious audiophiles seeking a statement piece for their home
- Minimalists wanting high-end performance in a single, streamlined system
Who should skip it
- Apartment dwellers with limited rack space or ventilation constraints
- Budget-focused buyers looking for maximum value per dollar
- Future-proofing enthusiasts who prefer modular, upgradable audio components
Performance breakdown
Digital Fidelity
The Quad Balanced DAC delivers exceptional clarity and high-resolution sonic precision.
Streaming Versatility
Comprehensive support for AirPlay, Chromecast, and Roon ensures seamless modern playback.
Power Delivery
Robust 100W output drives demanding speakers with effortless authority and control.
Analog Integration
Dedicated phono stage provides a warm, authentic experience for vinyl enthusiasts.
Build Quality
Iconic chassis design combines industrial durability with timeless aesthetic elegance.
Connectivity Depth
Extensive input options bridge the gap between legacy gear and digital.
Key Specs
FTC Power Output Rating
100 W
Power Output per Channel
100 W into 8 ohms, 160 W into 4 ohms
Number of Channels
2
Total Harmonic Distortion
0.005%
Frequency Response +0,-0.5dB
20Hz to 20kHz
Sensitivity Phono (Moving Magnet)
2.5mV
Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)
17-1/2" (44.45cm) x 6" (15.2cm) x 18-3/4" (47.6cm)
Unit Weight
38 lbs (17.2 kg)
Features
- Integrated amplifier and music streamer in one unit.
- Seamless wireless streaming via AirPlay, Google Cast, and Bluetooth.
- Dedicated MM phono input for vinyl enthusiasts.
- HDMI ARC for enhanced TV audio.
- Roon-Ready certified for high-resolution playback.
- Iconic McIntosh design with blue watt meters.
- Delivers 100W per channel for robust sound.
- Advanced Quad Balanced DAC for superior clarity.
What customers say
Owners overwhelmingly praise the McIntosh MSA5500 for its exceptional sonic performance, delivering the brand's signature warm, detailed, and nonfatiguing sound across all music. Build quality is frequently noted as superb, reflecting robust construction and iconic aesthetics like the glass faceplate and blue meters, leading many to consider it an heirloom investment. The successful integration of modern high-resolution streaming, including Roon Ready support, updates the classic McIntosh experience for the digital era without sacrificing analog purity. While the initial network setup presents minor hurdles, overall satisfaction remains extremely high due to the amplifier's unparalleled acoustic quality and stunning visual presence.
Know before you buy
Yes, the MSA5500 features a dedicated Moving Magnet (MM) phono input, allowing you to connect your turntable directly without needing an external phono preamplifier.
The HDMI ARC input allows you to route audio from your TV directly to the amplifier using a single cable. This lets you control the volume of your McIntosh system using your existing TV remote while significantly upgrading the sound quality of your movies and shows.
Absolutely. The MSA5500 is Roon-Ready and includes integrated support for services like Tidal and Spotify Connect, ensuring high-fidelity playback through its advanced Quad Balanced DAC.
The MSA5500 delivers a robust 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts into 4 ohms. This is sufficient power to drive a wide range of high-quality bookshelf and floor-standing speakers with clarity and dynamic range.
Yes, the MSA5500 supports multi-room audio capabilities, allowing you to integrate it into a larger home audio network via its Wi-Fi 6.0 or Ethernet connectivity.
Beyond wireless streaming, the unit includes two coaxial inputs, two Toslink optical inputs, a USB port, and a proprietary MCT input, providing plenty of flexibility for connecting CD players, streamers, and other digital sources.
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