Page 1
MA6500 Integrated Amplifier
Owner’s
Manual
MA6500
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 FAX: 607-724-0549
Page 2
The lightning flash with arrowhead,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended
to alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK OF
FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE READ THEM BEFORE
OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT.
General:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Warning: To reduce risk of fire or electrical shock,
do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
This unit is capable of producing high sound pressure levels. Continued exposure to high sound pressure levels can cause permanent hearing impairment or loss. User caution is advised and ear protection is recommended when playing at high volumes.
6. Caution: to prevent electrical shock do not use this
(polarized) plug with an extension cord, receptacle
or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
Attention: pour pevenir les chocs elecriques pas
utiliser cette fiche polarisee avec un prolongateur,
une prise de courant ou un autre sortie de courant,
sauf si les lames peuvent etre inserees afond ans en
laisser aucune partie a decouvert.
7. Unplug this equipment during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
8. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover or
back. No user serviceable parts inside.
Installation:
9. The equipment shall be installed near the AC Socket
Outlet and the disconnect device shall be easily accessible.
10. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
11. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other equipment (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
12. Do not use this equipment near water.
13. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing
and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, are placed on the equipment.
14. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the equipment.
When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/equipment combination
to avoid injury from tip-over.
Connection:
15. Connect this equipment only to the type of AC power
source as marked on the unit.
16. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles,
and the point where they exit from the equipment.
17. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug.
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Page 3
A polarized plug has two blades with one wider
than the other. A grounding type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide
blade or the third prong are provided for your
safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the
obsolete outlet.
18. Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk
of fire or electric shock.
19. To completely disconnect this equipment from the AC
Mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from the
AC receptacle.
Care of Equipment:
20. Clean only with a dry cloth.
21. Do not permit objects or liquids of any kind to be
pushed, spilled and/or fall into the equipment through
enclosure openings.
22. Unplug the power cord from the AC power outlet
when left unused for a long period of time.
Thank You
Your decision to own this McIntosh MA6500 Integrated
Amplifier ranks you at the very top among discriminating
music listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh
dedication to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive
many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all
the features and functions of your new McIntosh.
Please Take A Moment
The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh dealer
name are important to you for possible insurance claim or
future service. The spaces below have been provided for
you to record that information:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Dealer Name:
Technical Assistance
Repair of Equipment:
23. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the equipment has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is
damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the equipment, the equipment has been exposed to
rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
been dropped.
24. Do not attempt to service beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other service should be referred to qualified service personnel.
25. When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by
McIntosh or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock, or other hazards.
26. Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks
to determine that the product is in proper operating
condition.
If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh
product, contact your McIntosh dealer who is familiar with
your McIntosh equipment and any other brands that may
be part of your system. If you or your dealer wish additional help concerning a suspected problem, you can receive technical assistance for all McIntosh products at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-1545
Fax: 607-723-3636
Customer Service
If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in need of
repair, you can return it to your dealer. You can also return
it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service Department. For assistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the
McIntosh Service Department at:
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, New York 13903
Phone: 607-723-3515
Fax: 607-723-1917
Copyright 2001 by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
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Page 4
Introduction and Performance Features
Table of Contents
Safety Instructions ............................................................ 2
Thank You and Please Take a Moment............................. 3
Technical Assistance and Customer Service .................... 3
Table of Contents and General Notes ............................... 4
Introduction ...................................................................... 4
Performance Features ....................................................... 4
Dimensions ....................................................................... 5
Installation ........................................................................ 6
Rear Panel Connections and Switch ................................. 7
How to Connect for Loudspeakers ................................... 8
How to Connect for Audio and Data Control ................... 9
How to Connect for Video .............................................. 10
How to Connect for a Second Room .............................. 11
Front Panel Controls, Display, Indicator Push-Button
and Switch ...................................................................... 12
How to Operate ............................................................... 13
Remote Control Push-Buttons ........................................ 16
How to Operate by Remote Control ............................... 17
Specifications ................................................................. 18
Packing Instruction ......................................................... 19
General Notes
1. Connecting Cables are available from the McIntosh Parts
Department:
Data and Power Control Cable Part No. 170-202
Six foot, shielded 2 conductor, with 1/8 inch stereo mini
phone plugs on each end.
2. For additional connection information, refer to the owner’s
manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the MA6500
Integrated Amplifier.
3. There is a built-in turn on delay which will mute the speaker
outputs for approximately two seconds when the amplifier is
turned on.
4. It is very important that loudspeaker cables of adequate size
be used in your music system, to ensure that there will be no
power loss or heating. Cable size is specified in Gauge
numbers or AWG (American Wire Gauge). The smaller the
Gauge number, the larger the wire size:
If your loudspeaker cables are 25 feet (7.62m) or less,
use 16 Gauge (AWG) wire size or larger.
If your loudspeaker cables are 50 feet (38.1m) or less,
use 14 Gauge (AWG) wire size or larger.
If your loudspeaker cables are 100 feet (76.2m) or less,
use 10 Gauge (AWG) wire size or larger.
5. In the event that the MA6500 Integrated Amplifier over heats,
due to improper ventilation and/or extremely high ambient
temperature, the built in protection circuits will activate. The
MA6500 Front Panel Power Guard LED’s will both
continuously indicate On and the audio output signal will be
muted. When the temperature of the MA6500 has returned to
a safe condition, sound will return and the Power Guard
Indicators will return to normal operation.
Introduction
Your decision to own this McIntosh MA6500 Integrated
Amplifier ranks you at the very top among discriminating
music listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh
dedication to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive
many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all
the features and functions of your new McIntosh.
Performance Features
••
•
Power Output
••
The MA6500 consists of two separate power amplifier
channels, each capable of 200 watts and a sophisticated
control center in one compact unit with less than 0.005%
distortion.
••
• Power Guard
••
Both channels include the patented McIntosh Power Guard
circuit that prevents the amplifier from being overdriven
into clipping with its harsh distorted sound that can also
damage your valuable loudspeakers.
••
• Electronic Input Switching
••
Digital Logic integrated circuits drive Electromagnetic
switches on all six inputs and operating functions for reliable, noiseless, distortion free switching.
••
• Speaker Switching
••
Front panel Speaker push-buttons control two switched
outputs that allow you to send signals to two separate pairs
of loudspeakers.
••
• Sentry Monitor and Thermal Protection
••
McIntosh Sentry Monitor power output stage protection
circuits ensure the MA6500 will have a long and trouble
free operating life. Built-in thermal protection circuits
guard against overheating.
••
• Illuminated Power Meters
••
The illuminated power output watt meters on the MA6500
are peak responding, and indicate the power output of the
amplifier.
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MA6500 Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining the
best location for your MA6500. There is additional information on the next page pertaining to installing the
MA6500 into cabinets.
17-
1/2
44.45cm
MA6500 Dimensions
"
Front View of the MA6500
Rear View of the MA6500
17"
43.18cm
13-
1/4
"
33.66cm
7 -
1/8
18.10cm
6-
5/16
16.03cm
"
"
7 -
5/8
19.37cm
"
Side View of the MA6500
13/16
2.06cm
18-
1/2
"
46.99cm
17"
43.18cm
6-
1/2
3/16
"
0.48cm
"
16.51cm
"
14-
1/16
"
35.72cm
7/8
"
2.22cm
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Installation
Installation
The MA6500 can be placed upright on a table or shelf,
standing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in a
piece of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The four feet
may be removed from the bottom of the MA6500 when it
is custom installed as outlined below. The four feet together with the mounting screws should be retained for
possible future use if the MA6500 is removed from the
custom installation and used free standing. The required
panel cutout, ventilation cutout and unit
dimensions are
shown.
Always provide
adequate ventilation
for your MA6500.
Cool operation ensures the longest
possible operating
MA6500 Front Panel
Custom Cabinet Cutout
life for any electronic instrument. Do
not install the
MA6500 directly
above a heat generating component such
as a high powered
amplifier. If all the
components are installed in a single
cabinet, a quiet run-
Cabinet
Front
Panel
Opening
for Ventilation
ning ventilation fan
can be a definite asset in maintaining all
the system components at the coolest
MA6500 Side View
in Custom Cabinet
possible operating
temperature.
A custom cabinet
installation should
Support
Shelf
provide the following minimum spacing dimensions for
cool operation. Allow at least 6 inches
(15.24cm) above the
MA6500 Bottom View
in Custom Cabinet
1"
2.54cm
top, 2 inches
(3.81cm) below the
bottom and 1 inch
(2.54cm) on each side of the amplifier, so that airflow is
not obstructed. Allow 20 inches (50.8cm) depth behind the
front panel. Allow 1 inch (2.54cm) in front of the mounting
panel for knob clearance. Be sure to cut out a ventilation
hole in the mounting shelf according to the dimensions in
the drawing.
17-
1/16
"
43.34cm
6 -
5/8
"
16.83cm
6"
15.24cm
3-
8.89cm
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
1/2
"
Chassis
Spacers
7"
17.78cm
Cutout
Opening
for
Ventilation
15"
38.1cm
15"
38.1cm
15-
1/2
39.37cm
"
13-
1/8
"
33.34cm
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Rear Panel Connections and Switch
The EXT
(external)
SENSORS
for a McIntosh Key-
pad or IR
Connect the
MA6500 power
cord to a live AC
outlet. Refer to information on the
back panel to determine the correct
voltage
Sensor
POWER
CONTROL
Output sends
turn-on signal to a
McIntosh
Component
SPEAKERS 1 and 2 the
signal output controlled
by the front panel
SPEAKER push-buttons
TUNER inputs
accept signals
from the output
of a tuner
VIDEO inputs for
audio signals from
a LV, VCR, TV or
the optional A/V
Selector
GND terminal
accepts a
ground wire
from a turntable
PH (Phono)/AUX INPUTS accept signals from
a Moving Magnet phono
cartridge or an audio high
level signal, depending on
the position of the PH/
AUX Switch
Fuse holder, refer
to information on
the back panel to
determine the
correct fuse size
and rating
SUM Data Port
connects to a
McIntosh Remote Control
Translator
HOME Data Port
is for use with the
optional HC-1
Home Controller
DATA PORTs
send signals to
compatible
source components to allow
you to remote
control them
POWER AMP IN inputs accept
signals from separate external
preamplifier
POWER AMP
INPUT Switch
allows an external preamplifier
connection to the
MA6500 Power
Amplifier
MAIN OUTPUTS supply
the Preamplifier Output
to an external power amplifier
TAPE OUTPUTS supply
record signals
for tape recorders
The PH/AUX
Switch selects
signals from a
Moving Magnet
phono cartridge
or an audio high
level signal
CD1 and CD2
inputs accept
signals from
separate CD
players
TAPE inputs
are for tape
recorders
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Page 8
How to Connect Loudspeakers
How to Connect Loudspeakers
Caution: The supplied AC Power Cord should not be
connected to the Rear Panel of the MA6500
Amplifier until after the Loudspeaker Connections
have been made. Failure to observe this could
result in Electric Shock.
1. Prepare the Loudspeaker Hookup Cables that attach to
the Amplifier by choosing one of the methods below:
Bare wire cable ends:
Carefully remove sufficient insulation from the cable
ends, refer to figures 1, 2 & 3. If the cable is stranded,
carefully twist
the strands together as tightly
as possible.
Note: If desired,
the twisted
ends can be tinned with solder to keep the strands
together, or attach spade lug and/or banana
connector.
Spade lug or prepared wire connection:
Insert the spade lug connector or prepared section of
the cable end into the terminal side access hole, and
tighten the
terminal
cap until
the cable is
firmly
clamped
into the terminal so the wires cannot slip out. Refer to figures 4,
5 & 6.
Banana plug connection:
Insert the banana plug into the hole at the top of the
terminal.
Note: Banana Plugs are for use in the United States and
Canada only.
2. Connect the loudspeaker cables to the appropriate terminals (SPEAKERS 1 or 2) for your loudspeakers, being careful to observe the correct polarities.
3. Install the plastic protective loudspeaker terminal covers that were supplied with your amplifier. Refer to figures 7 and 8.
WARNING: Loudspeaker terminals are hazardous
live and present a risk of electric shock.
For additional instruction on making
Loudspeaker Connections contact your
McIntosh Dealer or McIntosh Technical
Support.
Figure 7
Cover Mounting Screw Locations
Terminal
Connection
Cable
Openings
Figure 8
Cover
Right
Loudspeaker
4 ohm
8
Left
Loudspeaker
4 ohm
Page 9
How to Connect Audio Components
How to Connect Audio Components
1. Connect an Audio Cable from the McIntosh CD Player
Audio Outputs to the MA6500 CD2 INPUTS.
2. Connect an Audio Cable from a McIntosh Tuner 1 Outputs to the MA6500 TUNER INPUTS.
3. Connect an Audio Cable from a Turntable to the
PH/AUX INPUTS and the Turntable Ground Connec-
tion to the GND grounding post.
4. Connect an Audio Cable from the MA6500 TAPE
OUTPUTS to the Record Inputs of a Tape Recorder
and from the MA6500 TAPE INPUTS to a Tape Recorder Outputs.
5. Connect a Control Cable from the MA6500 POWER
CONTROL ACC Jack to the Power Control In on the
McIntosh Tuner.
McIntosh Tuner
6. Connect a Control Cable from the McIntosh Tuner
Power Control Out Jack to the Power Control In jack
on the McIntosh CD Player.
7. Connect a Control Cable from the MA6500 TUNER
DATA PORT Jack to the McIntosh Tuner Data In
(Tuner 1).
8. Connect a Control Cable from the MA6500 CD2
DATA PORT Jack to the McIntosh CD Player Data In
Jack.
9. Connect an RG6 or RG59U coaxial cable from the
EXTernal SENSOR Jack to a Keypad.
Note: A Wall Mounted IR Sensor may also be used in place
of the keypad.
10. Connect the MA6500 Power Cord to a live AC outlet.
McIntosh CD Player
To AC
Outlet
Keypad
Out In
Tape Recorder Turntable
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Page 10
How to Connect for Video Switching
How to Connect for Video Switching
1. Connect a Data cable from the MA6500 VIDEO DATA
PORT to the Audio/Video Selector Data In jack.
2. Connect the Audio/Video Selector Control Center Audio Outputs to the MA6500 VIDEO INPUTS.
3. Connect the Audio/Video Selector Video Monitor Output to a Monitor/TV.
Note: Either or both Audio/Video Selector Monitor
Output(s) may be connected to the Monitor/TV.
4. Connect a McIntosh DVD/CD Player Audio Outputs to
the Audio/Video Selector V-Aux Audio Inputs, the
Audio/Video Selector
Video Output to the Audio/Video Selector Video Input
and the Control Out to the Audio/Video Selector Data
Output jack.
5. Connect a Control Cable from the MA6500 POWER
CONTROL ACC Jack to the Power Control In on the
McIntosh DVD/CD Player.
6. Connect other video source components to the appropriate audio and video and data jacks on the Audio/
Video Selector.
Monitor/TV
McIntosh DVD Player
10
Page 11
Front Panel Controls, Push-Buttons and Switch
BASS control provides
12dB boost or cut with
a flat center position
METER indicates the
Left Channel Power
Output of the amplifier
TREBLE control provides
12dB boost or cut with a
flat center position
METER indicates the
Right Channel Power
Output of the amplifier
POWER GUARD
LEDs light when the
amplifier’s channel
POWER GUARD
circuit activates
The BALANCE control
allows adjustment of
the relative volume balance between channels
VOLUME control
allows adjustment of
the listening level for
both channels
POWER
switch turns
all AC power
completely
ON or OFF
IR Sensor
receives
commands
from a remote control
Select any one
of the six Audio
signal sources
HEADPHONES jack
allows connection of
Stereo Headphones for
private listening
MONO push-button
combines the left and
right channel signals for
Mono operation
SPEAKERS
1 and 2
push-buttons
turn the
speakers On
or Off
MUTE push-button
mutes the listening
audio
LOUDNESS
provides frequency response contoured to compensate for the
behavior of the
human ear at
softer listening
levels
STANDBY/ON
push-button turns
the MA6500 ON,
or OFF (Standby)
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Page 12
How to Operate
How to Operate
Power On
Press the POWER switch to ON. The Red LED above the
STANDBY/ON push-button, lights to
indicate the MA6500 is in Standby
mode. To turn On the MA6500, press
the STANDBY/ON push-button. The
MUTE LED will light for approximately two seconds after
Figure 9
turn on. Refer to figures 9
and 10.
Note: For normal
operation, turn the
MA6500 On and Off
with the Standby/On
push-button. If the
amplifier is not going
to be used for an
extended time, turn
off all AC Power with
the Power Switch.
You may also turn On
the MA6500 by
simply pressing the
desired Source
Selection Pushbutton on the Front
Panel or Remote
Control.
Source Selection
Select the desired source
with the appropriate pushbutton switch on the Front
Panel or Remote Control.
Refer to figures 10 and 11
and page 15 for additional
information.
Volume Control
Adjust the VOLUME control for the desired listening
level.
Figure 10
PH/AUX Inputs
When using a phono player with a moving magnet cartridge connected to the PH/AUX inputs,
set the PH AUX switch to the PH position. When using an auxiliary program
source component connected to the PH/
AUX inputs, set the PH AUX switch to
the AUX position. Refer to figure 12.
Figure 12
Balance Control
Adjust the BALANCE control as needed to achieve approximately equal listening volume levels in each loudspeaker. Turn the BALANCE to the left to emphasize the
Left Channel by reducing the level of the Right Channel.
Turn the BALANCE to the right to emphasize the Right
Channel by reducing the level of the Left Channel.
Bass and Treble Controls
Adjust the BASS and TREBLE controls to suit your listening preferences. The bass or treble intensity can be increased with clockwise rotation and decreased with counterclockwise rotation. All tone control circuit elements are
removed from the signal path when the controls are in the
center or flat position.
Loud Switch
Press the LOUD push-button to add loudness bass compensation to the volume control for improved low level listening.
Mono
Press the MONO push-button to combine left and right stereo signals to mono at the SPEAKERS 1 and 2 and HEADPHONES output.
Mute
Press the MUTE push-button to mute audio in all outputs
except the HEADPHONES and TAPE OUTPUT. The
MUTE LED above the push-button will flash on and off to
indicate that Mute is active. To unmute audio, press
MUTE, press the Remote Control Volume push-button(s)
or press an Input push-button.
12
Figure 11
Page 13
How to Operate, con’t
Speakers 1 and 2
Press SPEAKERS 1 or 2 push-buttons to switch the two
pairs of speakers
on or off. You can
press either pushbutton individually, or both to-
Figure 13
gether. Refer to
figure 13.
Headphones Jack
Connect a pair of dynamic headphones to the Headphones
Jack for private listening. Press Mute to mute all other outputs including the amplifier connected to the loudspeakers.
Refer to figure 13.
Reset of Microprocessors
In the event that the controls of the MA6500 stop functioning, push the POWER switch OFF and wait about two minutes. Then push the POWER switch ON followed by pushing the STANDBY/ON push-button. This will reset the
MA6500 microprocessors and the Integrated Amplifier
should be functioning normally.
Note: The above condition is usually caused by either
interruptions in AC power and/or major changes that
may occur in AC power line voltage.
Using a Separate Power Amplifier
There are two different ways to use a separate power amplifier with a MA6500. The first way is to use the separate
amplifier instead of the MA6500 built-in power amplifier.
Connect the loudspeakers to the separate power amplifier
and set the rear panel POWER AMP INPUT Switch to the
EXT position. Refer to figure 14.
Note: When a separate power amplifier
is connected to the MA6500 and
the POWER AMP INPUT Switch
to the EXT position, the MA6500
Front Panel SPEAKERS Pushbutton Switches will no longer
function.
Figure 14
The second way is to use both a separate power amplifier
and the MA6500 built-in power amplifier. Connect one
pair of loudspeakers to the separate power amplifier and
the second/third pair to the MA6500. Set the rear panel
POWER AMP INPUT Switch to the INT position. Refer to
figure 14.
Note: The MA6500 VOLUME Control will affect the sound
level of all the loudspeakers.
How To Make A Tape Recording
1. Select the source signal you wish to record with the
appropriate Front Panel input push-button. If you wish
to record from an Audio/Video source connected to the
optional McIntosh Audio/Video Selector Audio/Video
Selector, using the Remote Control, select the desired
source connected to the McIntosh Audio/Video Selector. Refer to figure 15.
Figure 15
2. Adjust the record level using the tape recorder volume
control and proceed with the recording process.
3. To listen to the tape playback of the program source
just recorded, press the TAPE input push-button.
Note: The MA6500 TAPE OUTPUTS are not affected by the
VOLUME or BALANCE controls.
Power Output Meters
The MA6500 Power Output Meters indicate the power delivered to the loudspeakers and are based on using 4 and 8
ohm loudspeakers. The meters respond to all the musical
information being produced by the amplifier. They indicate
to an accuracy of at least 95% of the power output with
only a single cycle of a 2000Hz tone burst. Refer to table
below.
Meter
Reading
200 200 Watts 100 Watts
20 20 Watts 10 Watts
2.0 2 Watts 1 Watts
.20 0.2 Watts 0.1 Watts
. 0 2 2 0 M illiw a t ts 1 0 M illiw a t ts
Actual Power
Output
(4 ohms)
Actual Power
Output
(8 ohms)
13
Page 14
Press to Power the MA6900
ON or OFF
Selects one of the twelve
High Level Audio/Video
Sources or Phono Input
Selects CD Player or
Tape Recorder Functions
and also performs various
functions on a variety of
McIntosh Components
Press the push-button
to illuminate the keys
Selects the REWind
Mode on Disc Players
and Tuning Down the
AM/FM Dial
Use to select tuner
presets, disc tracks or
any numbered operation
Selects Speaker 1, AM
Tuner Operating Functions and Disc Selection
on certain McIntosh CD
Players
Mutes the audio
Remote Control Push-Buttons
Turns AC Power ON or OFF to
certain McIntosh Components
when connected via the Data Port
Selects Functions for
McIntosh Home Controller and as a “shift” key
when used with the AM
or FM push-buttons to
select Speakers 1 or 2
Selects On Screen Functions for McIntosh DVD
Players and certain CD
Players
Selects the Fast Forward
Mode on Disc Players
and Tuning Up the AM/
FM Dial
Press to REVIEW Tuner
Station Presets and selects certain functions on
McIntosh CD Players
Press MODE to switch
between Stereo or Mono
Modes
Press TRIM to turn the
Loudness Control On or
Off
Selects Speaker 2, FM
Tuner Operating Functions and Track Selection
on certain McIntosh CD
Players
14
Adjusts the volume
level up or down
Note: The Remote Control push-buttons that
are blackened out are for use with
other McIntosh Products.
Page 15
How to Operate by Remote Control
How to Operate by Remote Control
The supplied remote control is capable of directly controlling the functions of contemporary McIntosh Source Components connected to the MA6500. Earlier McIntosh
source components and other brand source components can
be controlled by the MA6500 with the addition of a McIntosh Remote Control Translator (RCT).
Note: Your McIntosh Dealer can assist you with the
installation and operation of the Remote Control
Translator (RCT).
Mute
Press the MUTE push-button to mute audio at the SPEAKERS 1 and 2 and the MAIN OUTPUT Jacks. The TAPE
OUTPUTS and HEADPHONES output are not affected by
the MUTE function. The MUTE LED above the push-button will flash on and off to indicate that Mute is active.
Press MUTE a second time to unmute audio.
Mono
Press the MODE push-button to combine left and right Stereo Signals to Mono at theSPEAKERS 1 and 2 and the
MAIN OUTPUT Jacks.
Trim
Press the TRIM push-button to active the Loudness Compensations circuit.
Input Source Selection
Press any of the twelve input push-buttons to select a program source. When one of the Audio/Video Inputs (SAT,
LV, TV, VCR, VCR2 and DVD) are selected by remote
control, the MA6500 will automatically switch to the
VIDEO Input. If the Front Panel VIDEO Push-button is
pressed, the source device connected to the VIDEO INPUT
Jacks will be heard. When the optional McIntosh MVS Audio/Video Selector is added, multiple Audio/Video Inputs
Sources, such as LV, TV, VCR, VCR2 and DVD (V-Aux),
will become available by just pressing the desired program
source push-button on the remote control.
CD/Tape Functions
Use these push-buttons to operate a CD player, CD changer
or tape recorder.
Numbered Push-buttons
Press push-buttons 0 through 9 to access tuner station presets or CD tracks/discs.
Tuner Push-buttons
Press the AM or FM push-button to select the desired
broadcast band. Press and release the Channel Up or
Downpush-button to move from station to station. Press
and hold a Channel Up or Down push-button to move
continuously from station to station. Press REVIEW to
start the automatic brief audition of each of the presets
stored in the tuner memory. Press REVIEW a second time
to stop on a station preset and exit the Review process.
Volume
Press the Up or Down VOLUME push-button to raise or
lower the listening volume level.
Note: The TAPE OUPUTS are not affected by volume
changes.
Speaker Selection
Press HOME push-button followed by the SPEAKER 1 or
2 push-buttons either separately or together, to activate the
loudspeakers connected to the MA6500.
Acc On
Press ACC ON to turn the power ON to a McIntosh Disc
Player.
Acc Off
Press ACC OFF to turn the power OFF to a McIntosh Disc
Player.
E
Press E to perform various functions on a variety of McIntosh Components. It will also pause the playing of a disc or
tape player.
Lighting
Press and release the LIGHTING push-button to momentarily illuminate the upper half of the remote control pushbuttons.
Note: While the LIGHTING push-button is being depressed,
the remote control will be unable to send a remote
command. When the LIGHTING push-button is released
the push-buttons will continue to stay illuminated for
approximately three seconds thus allowing you to send
the desired command. If any of the translucent pushbuttons are depressed, they will continue to stay
illuminated for approximately three seconds.
Disc and Track
Use the DISC and TRACK push-buttons when a CD player
or changer is being used.
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dB
(Decibel)
+10
+8
+6
+4
+2
+0
-2
-4
-6
-8
-10
20 20k50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k
Hz (Hertz)
Frequency Response
dB
(Decibel)
Loudness Compensation Range
+10
+9
+8
+7
+6
+5
+4
+3
+2
+1
+0
-1
20 20k50 100 20 0 500 1k 2k 5k 10k
Hz (Hertz)
Note: The Loudness Compensation Range is a combination of
the Loudness Circuitry and the Volume Control’s
rotational position. When the Loudness Circuit is active,
the first 50% rotation of the Volume Control achieves
maximum loudness compensation, as shown on the
upper curve. When the Volume control is rotated beyond
the 50% point, the loudness compensation is gradually
reduced, as shown by the remaining curves.
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Page 17
Performance Charts
dB
(Decibel)
+14
+12
+10
+8
+6
+4
+2
+0
-2
-4
-6
-8
-10
-12
-14
20 2k50 100 200 500 1k
Hz (Hertz)
Bass Control Adjustment Range
dB
(Decibel)
+16
+14
+12
+10
+8
+6
+4
+2
+0
-2
-4
-6
-8
-10
-12
-14
-16
20 20k50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10 k
Hz (Hertz)
Treble Control Adjustment Range
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Specifications
Specifications
Power Output
Minimum sine wave continuous average power output per
channel, all channels operating is:
200 watts into 4 ohm load
120 watts into 8 ohm load
Rated Power Band
20Hz to 20,000Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion
Maximum Total Harmonic Distortion at any power
level from 250 milliwatts to rated power output is:
0.005% for 4 or 8 ohm loads
Dynamic Headroom
2.4dB
Frequency Response
+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz
+0, -3dB from 10Hz to 100,000Hz
Sensitivity
Phono, 2.5mV for 2.5V rated output (0.5mV IHF)
High Level, 250mV for 2.5V rated output (50mV IHF)
Power Amplifier Input, 2.5V for rated output
Signal To Noise Ratio (A Weighted)
90dB (84dB IHF) below 10mV input, Phono Input
100dB (90dB IHF) below rated output, High Level
110dB below rated output, Power Amplifier
Intermodulation Distortion
Maximum Intermodulation Distortion if instantaneous peak output per channel does not exceed
twice the rated output, for any combination of frequencies from 20Hz to 20,000Hz, with all channels
operating is:
0.005% for 4 or 8 ohm loads
Preamplifier Maximum Voltage Output
Phono, 8V at tape output
High Level, 8V at tape output
Main Out, 8V at preamp output
Voltage Gain
High Level to Tape: 0dB
High Level to Main: 20dB
Damping Factor
120 at 4 ohms
230 at 8 ohms
Power Requirements
100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 7.4 amps
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.2 amps
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 6.2 amps
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 3.1 amps
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 3.1 amps
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 3.1 amps
Note: Refer to the rear panel of the MA6500 for the correct
voltage.
Overall Dimensions
Front Panel: 17-1/2 inches (44.45cm) wide, 7-1/8 inches
(18.10cm) high. Depth behind front mounting panel is 161/2 inches (41.91cm). Clearance required in front of the
Front Panel is 1 inch (2.54cm) for knobs.
Weight
74.5 pounds (33.8 Kg) net, 92.5 pounds (41.7 Kg) in shipping carton
Input Impedance
Phono, 47K ohms, 65pF
High Level, 22K ohms
Maximum Input Signal
Phono, 90mV
High Level, 8V
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Packing Instructions
Packing Instructions
In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for
shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown
below. It is very important that the four plastic feet are attached to the bottom of the equipment. Three #10 x 2-1/4
inch screws and washers must be used to fasten the unit
securely to the bottom pad and wood skid. This will ensure
the proper equipment location on the bottom pad. Failure to
do this will result in shipping damage.
Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only
if they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping
carton or any of the interior part(s) are needed, please call
or write Customer Service Department of McIntosh Laboratory. Please see the Part List for the correct part numbers.
Quantity Part Number Description
1 033888 Shipping carton only
2 033887 End cap (Foam pad)
1 033697 Inside carton only
1 033725 Top Pad
1 034008 Bottom pad
2 017218 Plastic foot (spacer)
1 033699 Wood skid
2 101204 #10 x 2-1/4 inch Wood screw
2 104033 #10 x 1-3/4 inch Flat washer
4 017218 Plastic foot
4 100159 #10-32 x 3/4 inch Machine
screw
4 104083 #10 x 7/16 inch Flat washer
1 048572 Sipping Carton Complete
19
Page 20
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, NY 13903
McIntosh Part No. 04063202
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