McIntosh, the renowned American brand in the high-end audio field, announces the CS7500, an ambitious device designed for today’s music lovers. Combining the functions of a dedicated preamplifier and a network player in a single unit, it brings together analog and digital sources and streaming services at the heart of a modern stereo system.
Whether it is to rediscover a cult vinyl record or listen to a new track via [abc]streaming[/abc], the CS7500 adapts to the many contemporary ways of listening to music. It offers extensive connectivity, bringing together various ways of enjoying music within a coherent system, while leaving the freedom to choose the power amplifier best suited to one’s current and future setup. The player integrates direct compatibility with Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect (including Spotify [abc]Lossless[/abc]) and Tidal Connect (including Tidal Max). Support for Apple [abc]AirPlay[/abc], [abc]Bluetooth[/abc] and [abc]Chromecast (integré)[/abc] makes it possible to stream music stored on different personal devices. For high-quality wireless playback, the Bluetooth connection supports [abc]AAC[/abc], Qualcomm APT-X [abc]HD[/abc] and Qualcomm APT-X Adaptive codecs. The unit is also Roon Ready and Roon Tested certified, guaranteeing perfect integration with the Roon music platform.
McIntosh CS7500, 32-bit DAC and rich analog connectivity
Although [abc]streaming[/abc] is at the heart of the McIntosh CS7500, it is only part of the listening experience. Six analog inputs, including two balanced, three unbalanced and one configurable dedicated Phono input for turntables (moving magnet or moving coil), allow traditional sources to coexist with the seven digital audio inputs (see the specification recap below for details). The [abc]USB[/abc] connection supports native DSD512 (22.5 MHz) and DXD up to 384 kHz, while the coaxial and optical inputs ensure playback up to 192 kHz/24 bits. A proprietary MCT input is also included. At the heart of its performance is an 8-channel, 32-bit Quad Balanced digital-to-analog converter (DAC). It is designed to deliver a wide dynamic range with extremely low distortion (the manufacturer specifies THD of 0.005%), thereby preserving the clarity and detail of digital sources.
McIntosh CS7500, HDMI ARC and subwoofer outputs
The McIntosh CS7500 also extends the listening experience beyond music, as an [abc]HDMI[/abc] [abc]ARC[/abc] input provides direct connection to compatible TVs. It delivers high-performance stereo sound for movies, television and concerts. The most popular Dolby and DTS multichannel formats are intelligently converted to stereo audio for optimal playback through the system. Output options include two pairs of variable balanced and unbalanced outputs, as well as one fixed unbalanced output for connection to various power amplifier configurations. The second pair of balanced and unbalanced outputs can also be dedicated to a single subwoofer or a pair of stereo subwoofers for enhanced low-frequency performance. The front panel completes this array with a 6.35 mm High Drive headphone output powered by the proprietary Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) system.
McIntosh CS7500, a visual signature of performance
The McIntosh CS7500 brilliantly combines classicism and modernity in its design. The iconic McIntosh black glass front panel, illuminated logo, precision rotary controls and iconic “pool blue” meters are paired with a custom elevated chassis. The mirror-polished stainless-steel lower chassis is combined with a stainless-steel upper chassis and a delicate black titanium brushed finish, adding depth and contrast while retaining an unmistakably McIntosh design.
Immediate availability. Indicative price: 16,000 euros.
Summary of the McIntosh CS7500 key features:
• Type: stereo preamplifier and network player
• DAC: Quad Balanced 8-channel, 384 kHz/32 bits [abc]PCM[/abc]/[abc]DSD[/abc]
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz (+0, -0.5 dB)/15 Hz to 100 kHz (+0, -3 dB)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB (High level)/80 dB (Phono MC)/82 dB (Phono MM)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): 0.005%
• Analog inputs: 2 balanced [abc]XLR[/abc], 3 unbalanced [abc]RCA[/abc], 1 Phono (configurable MM/MC)
• Digital inputs: 2 [abc]coaxial[/abc], 2 [abc]optical[/abc], 1 MCT, 1 [abc]USB[/abc] (DSD512/DXD 384 kHz), 1 [abc]HDMI[/abc] ARC
• Analog outputs: 2 variable balanced XLR, 2 variable unbalanced RCA, 1 fixed unbalanced RCA
• Headphone output: 1 (6.35 mm jack) with HXD technology
• Wireless connectivity: [abc]Wi-Fi[/abc], [abc]AirPlay 2[/abc], Bluetooth (AAC, APT-X [abc]HD[/abc], APT-X Adaptive), Google Cast
• Network services: Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, Roon Tested
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 44.45 x 15.2 x 43.2 cm
• Weight: 11.3 kg
