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McIntosh XR50 Review
McIntosh XR50

Main Features

  • 0.75" Hard-Dome Tweeter
  • 6" Woofer
  • 40-45k Hz Frequency Response
  • 81 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Weight:19.50 lbs / kg
  • Dimensions(HxWxD): 17"x8"x11-3/4" /
MSRP: $2,000 (list price)
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McIntosh XR50 Review
McIntosh XR50 McIntosh XR50
See at AMAZON

McIntosh XR50 is a 3-way Passive Bookshelf speaker by McIntosh. It features a 0.75" Hard-Dome Tweeter, x 2" Midrange and x 6" Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 40-45k Hz and a sensitivity of 81 dB.


**This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequency Response of the McIntosh XR50 Speaker

McIntosh XR50 has a Frequency response range of 40-45k Hz at ±3dB. With a minimum frequency of 40 Hz, XR50 delivers deep bass that will likely satisfy most listeners, especially those who enjoy music. However, movie enthusiasts and music fans who prefer a full range of sound may still benefit from adding a subwoofer.

Visit our Powered Subwoofers section to find out more about the available subwoofer options.
Here we have a comparison of how XR50's Low and High frequency values compare with the average, max and min Low and High frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
McIntosh XR50
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Average
Max
High Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
McIntosh XR50
Min
Average
Max

On the treble side, with its upper limit of 45000 kHz, McIntosh XR50 has the highest frequency level among the Bookshelf speakers in our database.


Impedance and Sensitivity

McIntosh XR50's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 81 dB.

Sensitivity
Bookshelf Speakers
McIntosh XR50
Min
Average
Max

8 Ohms is pretty much the standard nominal impedance amongst stereo speakers and amplifiers so McIntosh XR50 is not considered a difficult to drive speaker from nominal Impedance perspective.

Sensitivity

With a sensitivity level of only 81 dB, McIntosh XR50 is a difficult to drive speaker from Sensitivity perspective, make sure to choose an amplifier with a high output if you like listening to your music at high volume levels. You may especially have a hard time using Tube amplifiers which are traditionally very low power compared to Class A/B or Class D amps.

Check the amplifiers that are in a similar price range to the McIntosh XR50:

  • Integrated Amps under USD
  • Integrated Amps under USD
  • Integrated Amps under 500 USD
  • All Integrated Amplifiers

Input Type

XR50 features Binding post type connectors. Bi-amping and Bi-wiring are not possible.

McIntosh XR50 External Dimensions and Weight

McIntosh XR50 has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) .

Weight
All Bookshelf Speakers
McIntosh XR50
Min
Average
Max

Available colors

McIntosh XR50 is available in Walnut (red).

Wall Mounting

XR50 doesn't sport any built-in mounting bracket, so you need an external structure to mount it on walls.

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the McIntosh XR50.

  • Speaker Cable and Connectors
    • Speaker Cables with Banana Plugs: If you know the lenght of the cable you need, this is the easier option to connect your speakers with your amp.
    • Speaker Cables without Connectors: If you are not sure about the lenght or need longer than standard cables with plugs, choose this option.
    • Banana Connectors and Plugs: If you chose the cables without connectors option or already have some cable around, pick the banana plugs separately.
  • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators more affordable options too.
  • Acoustic Panels and Treatments: Your room is as important as your stereo equipment so acoustic treatments goes a long way in improving the overall performance.
  • Speaker Stands: Stands bring your bookshelf speakers to ideal height (rule of thumb is to have the tweeter level with your ear in your listening position), helps stability and acoustical isolation.

Warranty

5 Years of parts warranty and 5 Years of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

McIntosh XR50 Alternatives in Passive Bookshelf Speakers
Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
Frequently Asked Questions about McIntosh XR50
What is the Speaker Sensitivity of McIntosh XR50
is the McIntosh XR50 an easy to drive speaker?

McIntosh XR50 Detailed Specifications

General
BrandMcIntosh
Full Model NameMcIntosh XR50
Speaker Type3-way Bookshelf
Sensitivity81 dB
Impedance8 ohms
Frequency Response40-45k Hz
DRIVERS
Woofer Size6-inch
Woofer Composition
Tweeter Size0.75-inch
Tweeter TypeHard-Dome
Midrange Size2-inch

CONNECTIONS
Connector TypeBinding post
PHYSICAL SPECS
Heightmm ( 17-inch)
Widthmm ( 8-inch)
Depthmm ( 11-3/4-inch)
Heightmm ( 17-inch)
Weightkg ( 19.50 lbs)
Enclosure
FinishReal wood veneer
Available ColorsWalnut (red)
Moisture ResistanceNo
OTHER
Handheld RemoteNo
Parts Warranty5 Years
Labor Warranty5 Years
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