The S500 Stereo Amplifier
Superior performance. Amplified.
Powered by innovation.
The world’s leading DACs needed an amplifier to match. The result was a clean slate design that could meet our DAC’s ultra high dynamic range head on. With the amplifier’s architecture optimized in critical areas, audio performance, longevity, and an ability to drive any speaker became our principal design parameters. We redefined the idea of what an amplifier can be, embedding the S500 with a fully modular design alongside a 1.0 Farad Power Core, a matched impedance input stage and an all billet CNC case. The finest amplifier we’ve ever created, the 500 series redefines excellence and sets a new bar in the industry.
Design without compromise.
The S500 features a discrete design featuring a class A matched impedance input stage. This result is a product with minimized signal reflections, input noise, and distortion while also maximizing power transfer and dynamic range in a zero negative feedback design. With custom low-noise high-current toroidal transformers and rugged high-current output buffers, the S500 provides a transparent, holographic listening experience that’s completely fatigue free. All components were meticulously chosen for their sonic performance and longevity, ensuring your amplifier is built to last.
Billet CNC heatsink.
The 500 series amplifier is designed and lovingly crafted in our factory based in California. Each of the heatsinks start out as a 51lb aluminum block before sixty percent is removed over eight hours of machining, resulting in 17.5 lbs of refined aluminum. This high efficiency design provides a surface area of over 10,000 in² per amplifier. What’s more–the fin thickness is slightly varied to help reduce resonances and ringing in the heatsinks, while multiple high power heat pipes distribute heat evenly for optimal thermal and electrical performance.
Core values.
Building the 500 series amplifiers with a core enclosure greatly improved their reliability and performance. Upon completion, the cores are rigorously tested and stocked for orders, ensuring the highest quality product is ready at a moment’s notice. With this segmentation, your system is optimized for performance and resilience.
Smart control features.
The S500 is equipped with a simple, user-friendly control interface. Intuitive push buttons, remote commands, and the 12V triggers guarantee control over power and standby modes. Further control of amplifier “power on” timers and soft-start circuits allow a multi-amplifier system to power up without putting strain on your listening room’s electrical system.
Powerful configurations.
Intuitively oriented speaker lugs direct your speaker cables in the right direction without strain. Multiple ground posts enable EMI reduction strategies, including shielded cables and system star grounds. A 20 amp IEC connection is provided for high current delivery, while three gain settings optimize dynamic range for any speaker.
Trade in program.
While we’re committed to long lasting products that hold their value, we realize audio systems are always evolving. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer up to 100% trade-in value for existing MSB products when upgrading to a higher performing series. If you currently have an MSB DAC or amplifier that you love–but are looking to experience more from your system–please reach out to your local dealer. We’ll build a personalized offer for your existing MSB products that count towards a new DAC or amplifier. Let us do the work of refurbishing and finding your current electronics a new home–they’ll continue to be enjoyed for years to come.
Technical Specifications:
The S500 Stereo Amplifier |
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| Static Power Consumption | 270 Watts On Standby power less than 2 watts |
| Operating Voltage Range | 120/240V (Auto switching) 100V (Fixed) |
| Fuse | 1/4"x1-1/4" 15A 250V Slow Blow |
| Input | 2x XLR Input |
| Output | 1x Binding post set per channel |
| Controls | Gain switch Input Impedance Switch On/Off Button Standby button Display Dimmer 12V Mode Switch 2x MSB 12V trigger port |
| Continuous Power Output (8Ω) < 1% distortion | 500 W |
| Continuous Power Output (4Ω) < 1% distortion | 900 W |
| Frequency Response (20 to 20kHz) | ±0.025dB |
| Signal to Noise (20 to 22kHz) | >136dB (>140dBA) |
| Equivalent Input Noise (22kHz BW) | 0.5μV |
| Crosstalk @ 2kHz | <-110dB |
| Low Gain (75Ω source impedance) | 16.2dB |
| Medium Gain (75Ω source impedance) | 22.2dB |
| High Gain (75Ω source impedance) | 28.2dB |
| Input Impedance (User Selectable) | 75Ω / 300Ω / 1.2kΩ |
| Output Impedance (20 to 20kHz) | 0.07Ω |
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| Input/Gain Stage | - Class-A - Double balanced - Impedance matched - Fully discrete - Independent power and transformer |
| Output Stage | - Class-AB - Balanced - High bias - Current gain only |
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| Width: | 15 in (381 mm) |
| Depth: | 23.25 in (590 mm) |
| Height: | 10.5 in (267 mm) Without Feet 11 in (279 mm) With Feet |
| Weight: | 135 lbs (61.25 kg) |
| Product Feet: | M6X1 Thread 3 or 4 Foot Configuration |
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| Width: | 23 in (585 mm) |
| Depth: | 35 in (889 mm) |
| Height: | 21 in (534 mm) |
| Weight: | 194 lbs (88 kg) |
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IEC C19 Power Cord |
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