McIntosh MS500 operation manual
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 www.mcintoshlabs.com
MS500
Music Streamer
Owner’s Manual
Important Safety Information is supplied in a separate document “Important Additional Operation Information Guide”
Thank You
Your decision to own this McIntosh MS500 Music
Streamer ranks you at the very top among discriminating music listeners. You now have the best. The
McIntosh dedication to precision performance assures
many years of musical enjoyment.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
guide. 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
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: 607-723-3512
Fax: 607-724-0549
Copyright 2017 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
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
Fa x : 6 0 7-723-1917
Table of Contents
Safety Instructions ..................................................... 2
(Separate Sheet) ................... Important Additional
Operation Information Guide
Thank You and Please Take a Moment ....................... 2
Technical Assistance and Customer Service .............. 2
Table of Contents ........................................................ 2
Trademark and License Information .......................... 2
General Information ................................................... 3
Connector and Cable Information .............................. 3
Introduction ................................................................. 4
Performance Features ................................................. 4
Dimensions ................................................................. 5
Installation .................................................................. 6
Rear Panel Connections .............................................. 7
AC/ DC Ad apter .......................................................... 8
MS500 Connections ............................................. 10 -11
Front Panel Display and Push-button........................ 12
How to use the Remote Control ................................ 13
How to Operate the Setup Mode ......................... 14 -15
How to Operate the MS500 ................................. 16-23
Photos ........................................................................ 25
Specifications ............................................................ 26
Packing Instructions ................................................. 27
Trademark and License Information
The McIntosh MS500 incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and
other intellectual property rights.
2
General Information
Pin 8
Pin 1
1. For additional connection information, refer to the
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected
to the MS500 Music Streamer.
2. When the MS500 Music Streamer is connected to
an audio system, playback of music already stored
on it may be listened to. To take full advantage of
the many features the MS500 is capable of, such
as importing and storing additional music on the
Music Streamer, requires connection to a Computer Network System.
3. For best performance, the speed of the Computer
Network the MS500 Music Streamer would be
connected to should be 1 Gigabit or faster.
4. The MS500 internal Digital to Analog Converter
Circuitry is designed to decode 2-channel PCM
(Pulse Code Modulation) Digital Signals up to
24Bit 192kHz. The Digital Output Signal present
at the Coaxial and Optical Output Connectors is a
2-channel PCM (Pulse Code Modulation).
5. The MS500 is designed to be compatible with the
majority of Audio Power Amplifiers. However,
do to a wide range of Power Amplifier Designs, it
is important the input sensitivity of the amplifier
be at least 2 Volts. This will assure the playback
of most music recordings are reproduced with adequate dynamic range. Check with your McIntosh
Dealer for additional information.
6. The IR Input, with a 3.5mm mini phone jack, is
configured for non-McIntosh IR sensors such as
a Xantech Model DL85K Kit. Use a Connection
Block, such as a Xantech Model ZC21, when two
or more IR sensors need to be connected to the
MS500.
7. When discarding the unit, comply with local rules
or regulations. Batteries should never be
thrown away or incinerated but disposed
of in accordance with the local regulations
concerning battery disposal.
8. If it should become necessary to replace the supplied AC / DC Power
Adapter, order part
number 32059900
from the McIntosh
Parts Department.
9. For additional information on other McIntosh
Products please visit the McIntosh Web Site at
www.mcintoshlabs.com.
10. Mobile Device Apps for remote control operation
of the MS500, are available. Go to the McIntosh
Web Site at http://www.mcintoshlabs.com/us/Sup-
port/Pages/Manuals.aspx
Under “PRODUCT CATEGORY” select “Media
Streamers” then under “MODEL NUMBER”
select “MS500”. Click on “SEARCH” then click
on the MS500 Music Streamer App (iPhone, iPad
or Android) for your mobile device.
Connector and Cable Information
XLR Connectors
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced
Output Connectors on the MS500. Refer to the diagram for connection:
PIN 1: Shield/Ground
PIN 2: + Output
PIN 1
PIN 3: - Output
Data and IR Input Port Connectors
The MS500 Data In Port receives Remote Control
Signals. A 3.5mm stereo mini phone
plug is used for connection. The IR
Ports also use a 3.5mm stereo mini
PIN 2
Data
Signal
N/C
Data
Ground
phone plug and allow the connection
of other brand IR Receivers to the
MS500.
IR Data
Control
N/C
Ground
Power Control Connector
The Power Control Input Jack receives Power On/
Off Signals (+12 volt/0 volt) when connected to other
McIntosh Components. The Power Control Output
Jack sends Power On/Off Signals (+12 volt/0 volt)
when connected to other McIntosh Components. An additional
connection is for controlling the
illumination of the Power Output Meters on McIntosh Power
Power
Control
Meter
Illumination
Control
Pass Thru
Ground
Amplifiers. A 3.5mm stereo mini phone plug is used
for connection to the Power Control Jacks.
Ethernet RJ45 Socket
1. Transmit Data (+) 5. N/C
2. Transmit Data (-) 6. Receive Data (-)
3. Receive Data (+) 7. N/C
4. N/C 8. N/C
Ethernet Cable - Straight Thru Connections
Pin Number - Wire Color Pin Number - Wire Color
1.Orange/White → 1.Orange/White
2.Orange → 2.Orange
3.Green/White → 3.Green/White
4.Blue → 4.Blue
5.Blue/White → 5.Blue/White
6.Green → 6.Green
7.Brown/White → 7.Brown/White
8.Brown → 8.Brown
Pin 1
Pin 8
3
General Information, Cable Information, Disc Information, Introduction and Performance Features
Introduction
The McIntosh MS500 Music Streamer offers the latest
in audio technology, providing state of the art audio
reproduction with the convenience of instant access
to your music library. When the MS500 is added to a
McIntosh System, the music from this source may be
enjoyed in your home. The advanced design ensures
many years of smooth trouble free operation.
• Local AM/FM Radio Stations
The MS500 also allows for listening to AM/FM Stations via the Internet Connection.
• Select your Music
Listen to the music you want by creating your own
play lists and/or groups of music types.
• Quiet Fan Less Operation
Enjoy your music even at low system volume settings.
• Power Control
The Power Control Input connection provides convenient Turn-On/Off of the MS500 when connected to a
McIntosh System with Power Control.
Performance Features
• Built-in Networking Capability
The MS500 has the ability to connect to an existing
network for connecting to other devices also connected to the network, including the Internet (the Cloud).
• High Storage Capacity
The MS500 incorporates a massive 500 Gigabyte
Hard Drive capable of storing the contents of a large
Music Collection.
• Expand the Music Server System
The MS500 can provide seamless access to music
contained on other MS500(s) from different physical
locations. It can also access music stored on other devices such as Computers and NAS (Network Assisted
Storage) Devices connected to the same network as
the MS500. This provides for unlimited music storage
capacity.
• USB 3 and USB 2 Inputs
Connect external storage devices to the MS500 for
increased music storage capacity.
• Internet Streaming Services
The MS500 also allows for listening to Internet Stations when connected.
• Digital Audio Outputs
There is a Coaxial and an Optical Digital Audio Output (SPDIF) for connection to other components.
• Balanced and Unbalanced Analog Outputs
The MS500 has both Unbalanced Outputs and Balanced Outputs which permit long cable lengths without a loss in sound quality.
• Graphical User Interface
When connected to a TV/Monitor, the On Screen
Display provides information such as Album Name,
Artist Name, Song Name, Playing Time and Location
for each of the selections. This allows for easy song
selection from multiple rooms in your home.
• HD Video Outputs
The MS500 has HDMI and VGA Connections for
providing High Definition Video Signals of 1080p or
720p resolutions.
• On Screen Setup
The On Screen Setup allows for customizing various
settings such as audio, video, network and external
control to match the components in your system.
• Remote Control
The Remote Control with illuminated push-buttons,
provides control of the MS500 operating functions. A
Data Port Connection to a McIntosh A/V Processor or
Preamplifier allows for convenient system operation
using one Remote Control. An External IR Sensor
Input allows for remote operation when the MS500 is
located behind closed doors.
• Illuminated Glass Front Panel
The famous McIntosh Glass Front Panel is evenly
illuminated by multiple extra long life Light Emitting
Diodes (LEDs), arranged with a special orientation.
The pristine beauty of the MS500 will be retained for
many years.
4
Dimensions
The following dimensions can assist in determining
the best location for your MS500.
Front View of the MS500
17-
1/2"
44.5cm
Dimensions
MS500 MUSIC STREAMER
Rear View of the MS500
17-1/32"
43.3cm
3-9/32"
8.3cm
3-7/8"
9.8cm
29/32
1.8cm
1-5/8"
4.1cm
Side View of the MS500
13"
33.0cm
12-1/16"
30.6cm
2-11/32"
6.0cm
2-17/32"
6.4cm
"
9-1/16"
23.0cm
1-3/8"
3.5cm
13-1/4"
33.7cm
2-11/32"
6.0cm
5
Installation
Installation
The MS500 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 MS500 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
MS500 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
MS500. Cool operation ensures the longest possible
operating life for any electronic instrument. Do not
install the MS500 directly above a heat generating
component such as a high powered amplifier. If all
the components are installed in a single cabinet, a
quiet running ventilation fan can be a definite asset in
maintaining all the system components at the coolest
possible operating temperature.
A custom cabinet installation should provide the
following minimum spacing dimensions for cool
operation.
Allow at least 3 inches (7.6cm) above the top, 2
inches (5.1cm) below the bottom and 1 inch (2.5cm)
on each side of the Music Streamer, so that airflow is
not obstructed. Allow 17 inches (43.2cm) depth behind
the front panel. Allow 29/32 of an inch (1.8cm) in
front of the front panel for clearance. Do not block the
openings on the top cover or the three rows of louvers
opening on the bottom of the MS500. Be sure to cut
out a ventilation hole in the mounting shelf according
to the dimensions in the drawing.
MS500 Front Panel
Custom Cabinet Cutout
MS500 Side View
in Custom Cabinet
MS500 Bottom View
in Custom Cabinet
Cabinet
Front
Panel
Opening
for Ventilation
Support
Shelf
2-19/32"
6.6cm
2-27/32"
7.2cm
3"
7.6cm
13/16"
2.0cm
Cutout Opening
for Ventilation
17-1/8"
43.5cm
MS500 MUSIC STREAMER
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting
Cutout Opening for Ventilation
10-1/2"
26.7cm
11-7/8"
30.2cm
6-9/16"
16.7cm
2-3/4"
7.0cm
Chassis
Spacers
14-17/32"
44.5cm
Note: Center the cutout Horizontally on the unit.
For purposes of clarity, the above
illustration is not drawn to scale.
6
Rear Panel Connections
Connect the supplied
AC/DC Power Adapter
DC Output Connnector
USB (version 2.0)
an external storage device capable
of transferring data
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) Output (Audio and Video Digital Signals) for connecting to a HDTV or Monitor
with a HDMI Input with a video resolution
720p or 1080p
1
for connection of
PWR CTRL (Power Control) IN receives turn-on signals from a McIntosh component and POWER CONTROL OUT sends turn-on signals on
to another McIntosh Component
DATA IN receives control data
from a McIntosh Control Center
COAXial and OPTICAL AUDIO OUTPUTS
send a Digital Audio Signal to a Preamplifier
or an A/V Control Center with a D/A Converter or a decoder
BALANCED AUDIO OUTPUTS
supply analog audio signals to
connect to Balanced Inputs of
other components
VGA (Video Graphics Array) Analog Video Output for connecting to
a TV or Monitor with a VGA Input
1
USB (version 3.0)
for connection of
an external storage device capable
of transferring data at high speed
NETwork Connector for
connecting the MS500 to a
Broadband Ethernet Network
IR IN for connecting
an IR Receiver
USB (version 2.0)1 for connection of
an external storage device capable
of transferring data
UNBALANCED AUDIO
OUTPUTS supply analog audio
signals to Unbalanced Inputs of
other components
1
One at a time, of the three USB Connectors on the MS500 has
the ability to output Digtal Audio Signal for music playback to
an external audio device compatible with USB current operational standards
7
The AC/DC Power Adapter supplied
with the MS500 Music Streamer
Connect to a live AC outlet (always On)
using the supplied AC Power Cord. Refer to information on the power supply
to determine the correct voltage.
AC/DC Adapter power
On LED Indicator
Connect to the DC IN connector on
the Rear Panel of the MS500 Music
Streamer
8
AC/DC Adapter Connections and Notes
9
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