Connected To Everything That Moves You
The CS7500 Streaming Preamplifier brings together state‑of‑the‑art streaming and expert preamplification in one uncompromising component – combining the roles of a dedicated preamplifier and network streamer in an unmistakable McIntosh design. Serving as the centerpiece of your system, the CS7500 lets you choose the power amplifier that best suits your needs today while providing the freedom to grow and refine your system over time.
Streaming is more than just convenience, it’s about connection – connection to the world, to music, to culture. The CS7500 integrates modern digital ecosystems with effortless precision, giving you instant access to the music that moves you without sacrificing fidelity.
Features
- Quad Balanced 32-bit DAC
- Built-In Streaming (6 Services + Bluetooth)
- Adjustable Phono Stage
- PassThru Mode
- One-Chassis Design
Platform Support & Control
Built-in support for Qobuz Connect, Spotify® Connect (including Spotify Lossless), and TIDAL® Connect (including TIDAL Max) allows music to stream directly from each service to the CS7500. This direct connection bypasses your phone or smart device and avoids unnecessary audio compression, ensuring that the highest available audio signal reaches your system. Your smart device becomes a simple, intuitive remote control, with no need for additional complex apps – just use the Connect option in the native Qobuz, Spotify, or TIDAL app interfaces you already know. In addition, music stored on your devices can be streamed via Apple® AirPlay®, Bluetooth®, or Google Cast™, bringing all of your streaming sources together in one cohesive platform.
Bluetooth Qualcomm® aptX™ HD & High-Bitrate AAC
Streaming over Bluetooth is elevated through a suite of advanced technologies engineered for performance. The CS7500 supports high-bitrate Advanced Audio Coding (AAC), along with Qualcomm® aptX™ HD for high-resolution playback, and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive for consistently stable, high-quality streaming.
Roon Ready
The CS7500 has received Roon Ready certification from Roon, making it an endpoint device for use with the Roon music player. Roon Ready network devices have Roon streaming technology built in and are certified by Roon to provide the highest level of quality and performance in network streaming. It has also received Roon Tested certification to ensure simple setup and effortless daily use.
Inputs
A comprehensive suite of physical inputs ensures seamless integration with your audio system. The CS7500 features 6 analog inputs consisting of 2 balanced, 3 unbalanced, 1 dedicated phono input for turntables, plus 7 digital audio inputs. Each digital input is engineered for high-resolution playback – the USB input supports native DSD512 and DXD up to 384kHz, while the coaxial and optical inputs handle up to 24-bit / 192kHz, delivering exceptional fidelity across formats.
Audiophile-Grade DAC
At the heart of its digital performance is an audiophile-grade digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to extract the full potential from every file. This next-generation, Quad Balanced, 8-channel, 32-bit architecture delivers expansive dynamic range with extremely low distortion. The result is a level of clarity, depth, and precision that brings digital music to life with remarkable realism.
HDMI ARC
Elevate every moment on screen with the HDMI (ARC) input, seamlessly connecting your TV to a higher standard of sound. Experience your favorite shows and movies with a level of clarity, depth, and presence that built-in TV speakers and conventional soundbars simply cannot match. Popular multi-channel audio formats from Dolby® and DTS® are expertly converted to two-channel audio, preserving the integrity of the original mix while delivering a refined and immersive listening experience.
Outputs
The CS7500 outputs are designed for both flexibility and performance. It features 2 pairs of balanced and unbalanced variable outputs, along with a fixed unbalanced output, allowing seamless connection to your system’s power amplifier(s). The second set of balanced and unbalanced outputs can be dedicated to low-frequency reinforcement, supporting either a single subwoofer or a pair of stereo subwoofers – delivering greater depth, weight, and authority to every note.
A Visual Signature of Performance
The iconic blue meters on the CS7500 do more than indicate output levels – they become an integral part of the listening experience. Beyond their visual presence, they capture the movement and intensity of the music, deepening the connection between system and listener. The result is a performance that resonates on multiple levels, where sound is not only heard, but visibly expressed with a sense of authority that defines the entire experience.
The CS7500’s aesthetics matches its elevated performance. It features a stainless-steel lower chassis polished to a mirror finish, paired with a hairline-brushed black titanium stainless steel upper chassis. All of this creates a striking balance of depth, contrast, and refinement – designed to be proudly displayed.
Featuring the signature McIntosh black glass front panel, iconic blue meters, illuminated logo, precision rotary knobs, an elevated chassis, and custom-machined brushed end caps, the CS7500 stands out and makes a statement even before the music begins.
Built For How You Listen
The CS7500 is a statement of intent – a streaming preamplifier that unites analog with digital while elevating both. It is designed for those who expect connection, presence, and meaning in every note. With the authority of McIntosh engineering, it reveals layers in your music you didn’t know existed – deeper textures, wider staging, and a sense of control that transforms listening into immersion.
With comprehensive connectivity and seamless streaming integration, the CS7500 brings modern access to a legacy of performance. Contact your local McIntosh dealer to unite your digital libraries and timeless analog sources into one cohesive, effortless experience.
