McIntosh performance with streaming built in
The McIntosh MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier combines a network music streamer, high-resolution DAC, preamplifier, and powerful two-channel amplifier in one refined McIntosh component. Delivering 100 watts per channel into 8-ohm speakers or 160 watts into 4 ohms, it is designed for listeners who want a premium high-fidelity system without assembling a rack of separate components.
Connect speakers and start listening through Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Bluetooth, or Roon. Wi-Fi 6 and wired Ethernet provide flexible network integration, while the front display shows the active source, music information, and volume.
MSA5500 highlights
- 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms; 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Qobuz Connect
- Roon Ready and Roon Tested
- Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.0 with high-resolution aptX support
- Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit digital-to-analog converter
- PCM playback up to 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD512, and DXD 384 kHz
- HDMI ARC for television sound with two-channel Dolby and DTS downmixing
- Dedicated moving-magnet phono input
- Balanced and unbalanced analog inputs, USB, coaxial, optical, MCT, subwoofer output, and variable unbalanced preamplifier output
- Power Guard, Sentry Monitor, Monogrammed Heatsinks, and Solid Cinch speaker terminals
- High Drive Headphone Amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director
One component for streaming, vinyl, television, and more
The MSA5500 is built to simplify a serious stereo system without limiting source flexibility. Its 12 inputs accommodate network streaming, high-resolution files from a computer, digital disc transports, a television through HDMI ARC, conventional analog sources, and a turntable with a moving-magnet cartridge. The Quad Balanced DAC uses eight channels for low-noise conversion and supports today’s major high-resolution file formats.
McIntosh power and speaker control
Its direct-coupled solid-state output stage delivers substantial power into both 8-ohm and 4-ohm loudspeakers. McIntosh Power Guard monitors the output signal to help prevent harsh clipping, while Sentry Monitor protects the amplifier from unsafe operating conditions. Monogrammed heatsinks and Solid Cinch speaker binding posts complete a durable amplifier section intended for long-term ownership.
Designed to grow with your system
A dedicated subwoofer output supports full-range systems that need deeper bass, and a variable unbalanced preamplifier output allows the MSA5500 to control an external power amplifier later. The HXD headphone section provides a private listening option, while Power Control and data connections help coordinate compatible McIntosh components.
Technical specifications
| Power output | 100 watts x 2 into 8 ohms; 160 watts x 2 into 4 ohms |
|---|---|
| Total inputs | 12: seven digital and five analog |
| Network | Wi-Fi 6 and wired Ethernet |
| Streaming | Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Roon |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 with high-resolution aptX support |
| Digital conversion | Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit DAC |
| High-resolution audio | PCM to 32-bit/384 kHz; DSD to DSD512; DXD to 384 kHz |
| Phono input | Moving magnet |
| Television input | HDMI ARC with Dolby and DTS two-channel downmixing |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz–20 kHz, +0/-0.5 dB; 10 Hz–100 kHz, +0/-3 dB |
| Total harmonic distortion | 0.005% |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 95 dB high-level input; 110 dB power-amplifier input |
| Dimensions | 17.5 W x 6 H x 18.75 D inches |
| Weight | 38 lb |
Authorized McIntosh dealer support
Audio Exchange in Richmond, Virginia can help match the MSA5500 to loudspeakers, plan network and television connections, evaluate trade-ins, and coordinate delivery and installation. Contact us to confirm availability or arrange a demonstration.
