The McIntosh CS7500 combines a full-featured analog preamplifier, high-resolution DAC and network streaming platform in a single component. Designed as the control center for a two-channel system, it provides extensive analog and digital connectivity while leaving the choice of power amplifier open.
The CS7500 includes six analog inputs, seven digital audio inputs, built-in streaming, a dedicated configurable phono stage, HDMI ARC and multiple balanced and unbalanced outputs. Its digital section uses an 8-channel, 32-bit Quad Balanced DAC architecture, while McIntosh's familiar black glass front panel, blue meters and illuminated logo give it the company's distinctive appearance.
 
Streaming and Network Audio
The CS7500 has integrated support for Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, Google Cast, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect. It is also Roon Ready and Roon Tested.
 
Qobuz, Spotify and TIDAL can connect directly to the CS7500, allowing the phone or tablet to function primarily as a controller rather than as the audio source. Bluetooth supports AAC, Qualcomm aptX HD and aptX Adaptive.
Network playback supports PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz.
 
Digital Audio
At the center of the CS7500's digital section is an 8-channel, 32-bit/384kHz Quad Balanced DAC architecture.
 
The USB input supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz along with DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 and DXD at 352.8kHz and 384kHz. Coaxial and optical inputs support PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz, while the MCT input accepts CD-quality PCM and DSD64 from compatible SACD transports.
 
Analog Inputs and Phono
For analog sources, the CS7500 provides two balanced inputs and three unbalanced inputs, plus a dedicated phono input configurable for either moving-coil or moving-magnet cartridges.
 
The phono stage offers selectable gain of 40dB, 46dB, 52dB, 58dB or 64dB, allowing it to accommodate a broad range of cartridge output levels.
Bass and treble controls are included, along with tone bypass and input level matching.
 
Flexible Outputs
The CS7500 provides two pairs of balanced variable outputs and two pairs of unbalanced variable outputs. A fixed unbalanced output is also included.
The second set of variable outputs can be assigned for low-frequency reinforcement, allowing connection of either a single subwoofer or a pair of stereo subwoofers. Home Theater PassThru is also provided for integration into a larger AV system.
 
Headphone and TV Connectivity
A 1/4-inch High Drive headphone output is built in and incorporates McIntosh's Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD).
 
For television systems, HDMI ARC provides a direct connection from a compatible TV. The CS7500 can convert supported Dolby and DTS multichannel audio into two-channel output.
 
McIntosh Construction
The CS7500 uses a two-layer chassis with a polished stainless-steel lower section and a hairline-brushed black titanium stainless-steel upper chassis. The front panel features McIntosh's signature black glass, blue output meters, illuminated logo and precision rotary controls.
 
Key Features
Two-channel streaming preamplifier
Integrated network streamer
Quad Balanced 8-channel, 32-bit DAC
PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB
Native DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 via USB
DXD 352.8kHz and 384kHz via USB
Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect
Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth and Google Cast
Roon Ready and Roon Tested
2 balanced analog inputs
3 unbalanced analog inputs
Dedicated configurable MM/MC phono input
2 coaxial, 2 optical and 1 MCT digital inputs
USB digital input
HDMI ARC
2 balanced variable outputs
2 unbalanced variable outputs
Fixed unbalanced output
Dedicated subwoofer output functionality
1/4-inch High Drive headphone output with HXD
Bass and treble controls
Home Theater PassThru
Signature McIntosh blue output meters