McIntosh 2-Channel Streaming Preamplifier in Black - CS7500

McIntosh CS7500 2-Channel Streaming Preamplifier in Black

The McIntosh CS7500 2-channel streaming preamplifier combines a dedicated network streamer with solid-state preamplification for a separate-component stereo system. It supports Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, Google Cast, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect.¹² Its 6 analog and 7 digital inputs include configurable Moving Coil or Moving Magnet phono, USB, MCT and HDMI ARC, while a Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit DAC supports high-resolution digital playback. Two sets of balanced and unbalanced variable outputs can connect power amplifiers and provide single or stereo subwoofer options, giving vinyl, digital libraries, TV audio and streaming services one flexible control center.

Key Features

Connected Streaming Ecosystem

Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect send music directly from each service to the CS7500 while a smart device acts as the controller. Apple AirPlay, Google Cast and Bluetooth bring device-based music into the same platform, with AAC, Qualcomm aptX HD and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive supporting higher-quality, stable Bluetooth playback.¹² Roon Ready and Roon Tested certification also allows the preamplifier to serve as a Roon endpoint with simple setup and everyday operation.

6 Analog and 7 Digital Inputs

A broad connection suite lets the CS7500 bring turntables, balanced and unbalanced line-level components, music servers, disc players, computers and a compatible TV into one system. The analog side includes 2 balanced inputs, 3 unbalanced inputs and a configurable phono input, while digital sources can use coaxial, optical, MCT, USB or HDMI ARC connections.

Quad Balanced 8-Channel, 32-Bit DAC

The Quad Balanced digital-to-analog architecture is designed for wide dynamic range, extremely low distortion and precise playback with clarity and depth. For high-resolution libraries, USB supports PCM through 32-bit/384kHz, native DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while coaxial and optical inputs handle signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.

HDMI ARC for 2-Channel TV Audio

The HDMI ARC input routes audio from a compatible TV through the stereo system, allowing shows, movies, concerts and other television sources to benefit from the connected audio components. Supported Dolby and DTS multichannel formats are converted to 2-channel audio for playback through the CS7500.³

Flexible Amplifier and Subwoofer Connections

Keeping preamplification and power amplification in separate components leaves room to select the amplifier that suits the system now and upgrade it later. Two pairs of balanced and unbalanced variable outputs support power-amplifier connections, and the second output set can feed one subwoofer or a stereo pair; a fixed unbalanced output adds another routing option.

Headphone Listening and System Control

A 1/4-inch High Drive headphone output with Headphone Crossfeed Director supports private listening with spatial presentation designed to resemble loudspeaker playback. Bass and treble controls, tone bypass, input assignment, +/- 6dB input level matching, Home Theater PassThru, RS232 and power-control connections help integrate and manage a more complete audio system.

Iconic Blue Meters and Elevated Chassis

The blue output meters indicate signal levels while visually tracing the movement and intensity of the music. A black glass front panel, illuminated McIntosh logo, precision rotary knobs and custom-machined brushed end caps are joined by a mirror-polished stainless steel lower chassis and hairline-brushed black titanium stainless steel upper chassis for depth, contrast and refinement.

Is the McIntosh CS7500 Right for You?

For listeners comparing McIntosh preamplifiers, the CS7500 is built for a premium 2-channel system that needs modern streaming, analog and digital source switching, phono playback, TV audio, headphone listening and flexible subwoofer support without placing the power amplifier in the same chassis.

Features

• 2-Channel Streaming Preamplifier
  Combines network streaming and source control while preserving the flexibility of a separate power amplifier.
• Qobuz, Spotify, TIDAL, AirPlay, Google Cast and Roon
  Brings direct service playback, device streaming and Roon endpoint operation into one component.¹²
• AAC, Qualcomm aptX HD and aptX Adaptive
  Supports higher-quality Bluetooth audio with technology designed for stable wireless playback.
• 6 Analog and 7 Digital Inputs
  Connects line-level equipment, a turntable, digital sources, a music server, a computer and a compatible TV.
• Configurable Moving Coil or Moving Magnet Phono Input
  Accommodates either cartridge type with selectable phono gain.
• Quad Balanced 8-Channel, 32-Bit DAC
  Processes digital music for wide dynamic range, low distortion, clarity and precise detail.
• USB Audio Through 32-Bit/384kHz, DSD512 and DXD 384kHz
  Handles high-resolution files from a connected computer or music source.
• HDMI ARC With Dolby and DTS Conversion
  Plays compatible TV audio through the stereo system and converts supported multichannel formats to 2-channel sound.³
• Balanced, Unbalanced and Subwoofer Outputs
  Feeds power amplifiers and supports either one subwoofer or a stereo subwoofer pair.
• 1/4-Inch High Drive Headphone Output With HXD
  Provides private listening with Headphone Crossfeed Director processing.
• 0.005% Total Harmonic Distortion
  Supports clean 2-channel preamplification across the 20Hz to 20kHz range.
• Iconic Blue Meters and Stainless Steel Chassis
  Pairs visible output-level movement with black glass, polished and brushed metal finishes, and precision controls.

Footnotes:

¹ To connect the CS7500 to a wireless network with an Android device, or to enable Google Cast from any device type, the McIntosh Cast Connect app for Android and Apple devices is required.

² All services may not be available in all regions; certain services may not yet be enabled for all apps; subscriptions may be required.

³ The HDMI ARC input plays audio only from a compatible TV with an HDMI ARC output. It does not pass video to or from a TV or play audio from a non-TV source.