McIntosh MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier

Endless Streaming Possibilities Await

The MSA5500 is compatible with a multitude of leading streaming technologies and platforms including Apple® AirPlay®; Bluetooth®; Google Cast™ (formerly Chromecast); Spotify® Connect; and TIDAL® Connect (including TIDAL HiFi Lossless Quality). No special control app or technical skills are needed; the easy-to-use MSA5500 invites you to simply stream your music directly from your smart device.1 If you’ve been using a lower quality wireless home sound system, then listening to your favorite tracks through the MSA5500 will be like hearing them again for the first time.

For Bluetooth streaming, the MSA5500 utilizes Bluetooth 5.0; the high bitrate Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) standard; Qualcomm® aptX™ HD for hi res audio playback; and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, a robust solution that delivers high resolution, uninterrupted audio over Bluetooth. Two Wi-Fi 6 antennas and one Bluetooth antenna provide stable wireless connections, while an Ethernet port is also available for wired connections.

Streamed Music Has Never Sounded So Good

To elevate your auditory experience of your digital music, the MSA5500 employs an audiophile-grade digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to convert digital signals into the analog format needed for playback. This next generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit DAC features huge dynamic range and low distortion. Regardless the file format, you can expect a transcendent audio experience with pristine sound reproduction.

The MSA5500 has received Roon Ready certification from Roon Labs, making it an endpoint device for use with the Roon music player. Roon brings all your music together and adds tons of data – bios, reviews, photos, lyrics, tour dates, and cross-linked credits for performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and composers. Roon Ready network devices have Roon streaming technology built in and are certified by Roon to provide the highest level of quality and performance in network streaming. It has also received Roon Tested certification as Roon has profiled it to ensure simple setup and effortless daily use.

All the Connections You Need

In addition to all its streaming capabilities, the MSA5500 also comes 7 digital and 5 analog audio inputs to connect audio components, such as a CD player or tuner, plus a Moving Magnet phono input to connect a turntable. The digital inputs support high resolution digital audio playback; the USB input supports native playback of DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while the coax and optical inputs can decode digital music up to 24-bit/192kHz.

Unrivaled TV Sound

The inclusion of an HDMI (ARC) input lets you connect your compatible TV so you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies with a sound quality level that TV speakers or soundbars just can’t provide. Popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby® and DTS® will be expertly converted to two-channel audio for proper playback. The subwoofer output allows for a powered subwoofer to be added for extra punch so you can feel every bass and low-end note.

Accommodates Your Changing Needs

As your audio needs evolve, the MSA5500 can grow with you. Someday you may move into a bigger space or add a larger set of speakers and find that you need more power. If that happens, you could bypass the internal amplifier and connect a bigger external amplifier – all while continuing to use the MSA5500’s familiar streaming and preamplifier sections. You can rest assured that the MSA5500 can accommodate your changing needs and be a lifelong partner in your audio pursuits.