Integrated amplifiers — Musical Fidelity M5SI

The M5SI is an integrated amplifier with phono stage and built-in DAC from Musical Fidelity, sitting above the M3SI with considerably greater output power. The M5SI brings Musical Fidelity's more accomplished current engineering to a complete integrated chassis.

Key specs that matter

Four single-ended inputs plus a dedicated phono input are provided. The phono stage uses a sophisticated current-sensing design at 50,000 ohms for MM. Output power is 150W into 8 ohms - considerably more than the M3SI's 85W. Signal-to-noise ratio is 100dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise under an exceptionally low 0.010%. At 440 x 100 x 405mm and 14.6kg, the M5SI represents a more substantial commitment than the M3SI, reflecting its considerably greater output power.

Sound and use context

Expect the musically engaging character Musical Fidelity's broader British catalogue is celebrated for, with the considerably greater 150W output providing more headroom than the M3SI, combined with the built-in DAC and phono stage.

Pairing

The built-in DAC and phono stage cover both digital and analogue vinyl sources directly without needing separate outboard devices.

Alternatives

Musical Fidelity's own M5xi offers a related model with considerably greater output power within the same broader M-series catalogue.