On paper, McIntosh’s new RS200 seems like an easy sell (before you get to the £3495/$3000 price tag anyway). It’s an all-in-one system with DLNA streaming, built-in streaming service access, amplification and speakers all wrapped up in one classy-looking unit.
The all-in-one wireless music system has become a prevalent and popular hi-fi product in recent years, with the likes of the Naim Mu-so, Devialet Phantoms and Ruark R4 Mk3 finding favour, and McIntosh looks to secure some of its own success here further up the market.
AirPlay 2 is also present and correct, and HDMI (with ARC) and optical inputs serve users wishing to use the RS200 Wireless as a soundbar.
Amazon Works With Alexa certification means users can control music playback on the RS200 through an Alexa device, too.
As for the hardware, the RS500 delivers a pretty impressive 650 watts to eight speakers, which comprise two bass drivers, four midrange units and two tweeters. A subwoofer output offers the option to hook up an external powered subwoofer too, and McIntosh’s Play-Fi-compatible RS100 Wireless Speakers (sold separately) can be added as surround channels.
Naturally, they match other McIntosh speaker and systems with the company’s well-established aesthetic, and last but not least a three-position EQ switch offers customised sound equalisation based on the RS200’s room location and user preferences.
Orders can be placed now, with shipping expected to begin in March/April (UK) and February (US).
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