McIntosh Just Took a Lot of Boxes Off the Rack: Meet the CS7500

McIntosh has just introduced something we've been waiting to see: a true high-end streaming preamplifier designed to become the center of a modern two-channel system.

Priced at $12,500, the new McIntosh CS7500 2-Channel Streaming Preamplifier combines a full-featured McIntosh preamplifier, high-resolution DAC, network streaming platform, phono stage, and extensive analog and digital connectivity into one component.

In other words, McIntosh has taken a lot of boxes off the rack.

Streaming Meets a True McIntosh Preamplifier

The CS7500 isn't simply a network streamer with a volume control attached. It's designed first and foremost as a serious McIntosh preamplifier, giving you the flexibility to pair it with the power amplifier—and loudspeakers—that best fit your system.

For streaming, the CS7500 supports Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, Google Cast, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect. It's also both Roon Ready and Roon Tested.

That means you can stream directly from the services and apps you already use rather than being forced into another proprietary music interface.

A Serious DAC Inside

At the heart of the CS7500's digital section is a Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit DAC.

USB playback supports high-resolution PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz along with DSD and DXD formats, while coaxial and optical digital inputs support resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz.

Whether the source is a high-resolution streaming service, local digital library, CD transport, television, or another digital component, the CS7500 can serve as the digital hub for the entire system.

And Yes, You Can Still Play Records

For all of its emphasis on streaming, McIntosh hasn't forgotten analog.

The CS7500 includes six analog inputs, including two balanced inputs, three unbalanced inputs, and a dedicated phono input configurable for either Moving Magnet or Moving Coil cartridges.

So your turntable isn't getting kicked out just because you've embraced streaming.

12 Inputs—and Your TV Can Join the System

One of the most useful additions is HDMI ARC.

Connect a compatible television directly to the CS7500 and your two-channel system can handle TV, movies, and streaming video without requiring a separate soundbar or home theater processor.

Dolby and DTS multichannel audio can be converted for two-channel playback, making the CS7500 particularly interesting for people who want one exceptional audio system to handle both music and television.

The CS7500 also provides extensive output flexibility, including multiple balanced and unbalanced outputs and the ability to configure the second output set for one or two subwoofers.

Classic McIntosh Looks, New Architecture

Of course, it's still unmistakably McIntosh.

You get the signature black glass front panel, illuminated McIntosh logo, rotary controls, and iconic blue meters, but the chassis has received some serious attention as well.

The lower chassis uses mirror-polished stainless steel, while the upper section is constructed from hairline-brushed black titanium stainless steel with custom-machined brushed end caps.

It's a thoroughly modern component that still looks right at home next to a McIntosh power amplifier.

Who Is the CS7500 For?

This may be the most interesting part.

The CS7500 makes a lot of sense for someone building a high-performance two-channel system who wants fewer components without sacrificing flexibility.

Instead of separate streamer, DAC, and preamplifier components, the CS7500 consolidates those functions while still allowing you to choose virtually any power amplifier and speaker combination.

It can also make an existing McIntosh system considerably more streaming-friendly without changing what you already love about the amplification and loudspeakers.

Add a turntable, power amplifier, speakers—and maybe a pair of subs—and you've got an exceptionally capable system with surprisingly few boxes.

McIntosh CS7500 Highlights

• State-of-the-art network streaming and preamplification in one component
• Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, Google Cast, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect
• Roon Ready and Roon Tested
• Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit DAC
• Six analog inputs including MM/MC phono
• HDMI ARC for TV audio
• Balanced and unbalanced outputs
• Single or stereo subwoofer configurations
• High-resolution USB playback
• Signature McIntosh blue meters
• Dimensions: 17.5" W × 6" H × 17" D
• Weight: 25 lbs.
• Retail Price: $12,500

McIntosh CS7500 Price and Availability

The new McIntosh CS7500 Streaming Preamplifier retails for $12,500 and is now available to order through The Grid HiFi.

Explore the McIntosh CS7500 at The Grid HiFi →

Experience the McIntosh CS7500 at The Grid HiFi

As the McIntosh Reference Dealer in Houston, The Grid HiFi can help you determine whether the CS7500 makes sense for a new system or as the streaming and control centerpiece of an existing McIntosh setup.

More importantly, we can pair it with the right power amplifier, loudspeakers, turntable, subwoofers, and system architecture rather than simply selling you another box.

Contact The Grid HiFi for CS7500 availability, demonstrations, or help designing a complete McIntosh system.