The MSA5500 fits especially well in contemporary listening-spaces where streaming, connectivity and flexibility are as important as raw power. It retains McIntosh’s iconic styling (black glass front panel, blue watt-meters, stainless side caps) while offering modern streaming and high-resolution audio capabilities.

ALL-IN-ONE EFFORTLESS MUSIC STREAMING

The MSA5500 Streaming Integrated Amplifier is both a full featured music streamer and powerful integrated amplifier in one. It can serve as the cornerstone of your audio setup, whether it be your first venture into high-fidelity audio, an addition to your existing system, or to use at your office or vacation home. Crafted to perfection and compact in size, the MSA5500 is tailor-made for modern living spaces, making it an ideal choice for those seeking premium audio in more confined environments.

Listening Experience & Practical Use

In real-world use, the MSA5500 offers a rare combination of streaming convenience, high fidelity amplification, and system flexibility. Here are some impressions of how it performs:

• The rated 100W/8Ω (160W/4Ω) output may seem modest compared to some ultra-high power separates, but given its efficient design, high current capability (as evidenced by the high damping factor) and strong headroom, it handles demanding speakers and complex dynamic passages with poise and control. 

• The built-in streaming and DAC capabilities mean you can build a streamlined high-fidelity system without needing separate streamer, DAC, amp – ideal for modern living spaces or minimalist setups.

• Vinyl lovers and analog fans are also accommodated thanks to the MM phono input, meaning the MSA5500 fits nicely into hybrid systems (digital + analog) without compromise.

• The inclusion of HDMI ARC means it works well for both music and high-quality TV/movie playback – great for living-room systems.

• Build quality and brand heritage bring lasting value. The blue meters and aesthetic also mean the unit is visually striking – often becoming a centrepiece in audio installations.

• From a system integration standpoint, if your future plans include adding more powerful speakers or external power amplifiers, the MSA5500’s preamp/streamer section allows for expansion (e.g., bypassing its internal power amp).

Key Features

• 100 Watts per Channel into 8 Ω / 160 Watts per Channel into 4 Ω: Offers ample output for high‑fidelity speakers, with stable performance into 4‑ohm loads. 

• All‑in‑One Streaming & Amplification: Built‑in support for Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth 5.0 (including AAC, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive), Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Roon Ready. 

• Premium Digital‑to‑Analog Conversion: Utilises a Quad Balanced, 8‑channel, 32‑bit DAC (supports high‑resolution formats including DSD up to 384 kHz and DXD) to ensure high fidelity from digital sources. 

• Rich Connectivity: Multiple digital inputs (USB, coaxial, optical, HDMI ARC), analog inputs (including MM phono), subwoofer output, headphone amplifier with McIntosh HXD® (Headphone Cross‑feed Director). 

• High‑Quality Amplifier Technologies: Features McIntosh proprietary protection and performance systems – Power Guard® (prevents clipping), Sentry Monitor™ (fuse‑less short circuit protection), Monogrammed Heatsinks™, Solid Cinch™ speaker posts. 

• TV & Home Cinema Compatibility: HDMI ARC input allows seamless integration with a TV, enabling high‑quality audio for both music and movie/TV sources. 

• System Expandability: In addition to its built‑in amplification, the streaming/preamp section can be used to drive external power amplifiers if future upgrade is desired. 

• Signature Style and Build: Illuminated blue power meters, black glass front panel, robust workmanship, heritage aesthetics one expects from McIntosh. 

Technical Specifications

Power Output:

• 100 W per channel into 8 Ω. 

• 160 W per channel into 4 Ω. 

Number of Channels:

• 2 (stereo)

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD):

• ≤ 0.005% with both channels operating from 250 mW to rated power. 

Dynamic Headroom:

• Approx. 1.8 dB. 

Damping Factor:

• 200 at 8 Ω; >100 at 4 Ω. 

Frequency Response:

• +0 / ‑0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. 

• +0 / ‑3.0 dB from 10 Hz to 100 kHz. 

Inputs / Connectivity Highlights:

• Streaming and network connectivity: Apple AirPlay®, Bluetooth® 5.0 (AAC, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive), Google Cast™, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect; Wi‑Fi 6 and Ethernet. 

• Digital inputs: USB (supports DSD512, DXD 384kHz), coaxial/optical up to 24‑bit/192kHz. 

• HDMI ARC input for TV audio. 

• Moving Magnet (MM) phono input for vinyl playback. 

Input Sensitivity & Impedance:

• Phono MM: 2.5 mV. 

• High level Balanced / Unbalanced: 0.5 V / 0.25 V. 

Dimensions & Weight:

• Approx. 444 mm (W) × 152 mm (H) × 476 mm (D). 

• Weight: Approximately 17.2 kg.