McIntosh XCS1.5K User manual

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: [phone] www.mcintoshlabs.com
XC S1.5K
Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner's Manual

2
Safety First
Please read the Safety Instructions included in a
separate document called “Important Additional
Operation Information Guide.”
Thank You From All of Us at McIntosh
Your decision to own this McIntosh XCS1.5K
Loudspeaker System ranks you at the very top among
discriminating music listeners. You now have “The
Best.” The McIntosh dedication to quality is assurance
that you will receive many years of listening enjoy-
ment from this unit.
Please take a short time to read the information in this
manual. 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: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
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: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
General Information
CAUTION: The XCS1.5K weight is 178 pounds (80.74
kg). It requires three or more persons to safely
handle the Loudspeaker System.
1. Loudspeaker Cables of adequate size are important
to ensure that there will be no significant power loss or
heating. Cable size is specified in Gauge numbers or AWG
(American Wire Gauge). The smaller the Gauge number,
the larger the wire size:
If the Loudspeaker Cables are 50 feet (38.1m) or less, use at
least 12 Gauge (AWG) wire size or larger.
If the Loudspeaker Cables are 100 feet (76.2m) or less, use
at least 10 Gauge (AWG) wire size or larger.
2. For additional connection information, refer to the
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected to the
XCS1.5K Loudspeaker.
3. The XCS1.5K’s built-in speaker protection incorporates
a number of protection devices in the crossover networks.
The tweeter and midrange arrays are protected from
overdrive by these devices. The protection allows a certain
amount of overdrive but extended periods will trigger
protection. If an obvious lack of high, mid or low frequen-
cies is noticed, the Protection Device may have activated.
These devices will automatically reset when the volume
Table of Contents
General Information ............................................ 2
Introduction.......................................................... 3
Performance Features .......................................... 3
Dimensions .......................................................... 4
Unpacking and Assembly .................................... 6-7
Installation ........................................................... 8
Specifications....................................................... 10
General Specifications......................................... 10
Packing Instructions ............................................ 10-11

3
Introduction
The XCS1.5K Center Channel Loudspeaker is the next
evolution in high power, high resolution Home Theater
Loudspeaker Design. High-end Loudspeaker develop-
ment is a marriage of art and science. The XCS1.5K
is the culmination of decades of work (and—we
must admit—play). Since the early 1970s, engineers
at McIntosh have been performing painstaking
loudspeaker research and development—examining
minute changes as well as exploring new technologies.
An example of utilizing innovation is the XCS1.5K’s
use of McIntosh’s advanced Bessel Array technol-
ogy, which, among other benefits, provides a wide
listening area from a short line array. The latest
sound principles and the highest quality components
combine to deliver strikingly realistic sound with
exquisite detail and imaging. Combining all these
elements to produce the most musical output possible
is the art of this mission. The result is this masterpiece
of sound reproduction.
The new McIntosh XCS1.5K Loudspeaker System is a
Center Channel Loudspeaker capable of reproducing
the full dynamic range of a symphony orchestra with
very low audible distortion. It is the perfect match
to the famous XRT1.1K and XRT2.1K Column
Loudspeakers, when used in a Home Theater / Music
System. It uses the same acoustic technology found
in the XRT1.1K and XRT2.1K Column Loudspeakers
developed by the McIntosh Acoustic Engineers. The
technology has been refined over the years and is now
the 6th generation of the design and provides superior
quality sound reproduction in a full range system.
The XCS1.5K Loudspeaker utilizes a Horizontal
Bessel and Hybrid Bessel Array for the Tweeters
and Midrange speaker units. The Sound Waves from
this Horizontal Array produce a stable and focused
symmetrical horizontal sound image. Since the audio
power fed to each row is distributed among all the
drivers, each driver does not have to work as hard,
resulting in greater power handling capability, greatly
reduced power compression and a dramatic reduction
in distortion.
The Low Frequency Section of the System consists
of four 8-inch Carbon Fiber Cone Woofers capable of
long cone excursions. The sound produced has very
low levels of harmonic distortion and a frequency
response down to 32Hz. They have a large motor
assembly made with high-coercivity ceramic magnets
for stable high-temperature operation. The woofer
design also utilizes an aluminum shorting ring and
copper capped pole piece. This results in lower
distortion due to more linear magnetic flux in the
voice coil gap. A good example of this low distortion
is incredible smoothness and effortless clarity in the
reproduction of the human voice.
The Crossover Networks used in the XCS1.5K
Loudspeaker System are phase matched between
the Low Frequency, Midrange and High Frequency
Sections to ensure a smooth frequency response over
the entire audible range. The crossover inductors are
selected so they will not add audible distortion. The
network capacitors are film type for extra reliability.
All the Capacitors and Inductors are chosen for high
current capacity. The midrange and tweeter sections
use auto-resetting over-current devices to provide an
extra measure of protection.
Performance Features
High Temperature Neodymium-Iron-Boron Alloy
Magnets - The fourteen 2.5 inch Midranges and
25 three-quarter inch Dome Tweeters all use the
Neodymium-Iron-Boron magnets. This Alloy has the
highest flux density per unit of volume and helps to
keep the Loudspeaker System weight to a minimum
while preserving the utmost in performance. The four
8 inch woofer/midrange speakers use a ferrite magnet
circuit with an aluminum demodulating ring.
Low Harmonic and Intermodulation Distortion
- The XCS1.5K Loudspeaker System is capable of
reproducing the full dynamic range of a symphony
orchestra with very low audible distortion of any kind.
High Power Handling - The Loudspeaker Elements
and Crossover Components of the XCS1.5K are all
chosen for use with powerful amplifiers up to 1,500
watts.
Superior Imaging - Using hybrid Bessel Arrays
ensures a wide listening angle, superior imaging, and
high power handling.
Versatile Operation and Placement - In addition to
the regular connections, the XCS1.5K Loudspeaker
System provides separate connections for
Bi-Amplification and Tri-Amplification hookups, as
well as Bi-Wiring and Tri-Wiring.
Gold Plated Input Connectors - The XCS1.5K input
connectors are gold plated for superior corrosion
resistance and high electrical conductivity.
level is reduced significantly and kept low until the output
of the affected Loudspeaker Element returns to normal.
4. When the XCS1.5K Loudspeaker System is driven by
more than one amplifier, the output levels of the different
amplifiers connected to the Loudspeaker System must
be adjusted to achieve a proper balance between the
low, midrange and high frequencies reproduced. This
adjustment is best achieved through the use of audio test
equipment operated by a qualified installer.
Copyright 2022 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc

4
Dimensions
A A
B B
C C
D D
6
6
5
5
4
4
3
3
2
2
1
1
49 31
32 "
24 9
32 "
13 5
32 "
17 3
16 "
43.66cm
13 17
32 "
73
4"
21
53.9cm
7
32 "
126.92cm
33.42cm
61.67cm
19.69cm
34.37cm
Top View
Front View
Side View

5
10 5
32 "
12 7
32 "
31.04cm
25.80cm
10 15
16 "
27.78cm
Drivers Position
0"
0"

6
Unpacking and Assembly
CAUTION: When this Loudspeaker is assembled
it weighs 178 pounds (80.74 kgs). It requires
three or more persons to safely handle during
assembly, adjustment and placement in the
room.
To protect the fine finish of the XCS1.5K Loudspeaker
System during the adjustment process, it is advisable
to prepare a suitable adjustment area. A freshly
vacuumed carpeted area covered with a soft, clean
fabric, such as a large bed linen or blanket would be
suitable. Start by unpacking the Loudspeaker.
It is recommended that the Professionals at your
McIntosh Dealer, who are skilled in all aspects
of installation and operation, install the XCS1.5K
Loudspeaker System and any associated audio
equipment.
1. Put the carton box in vertical position. (FIG.1)
2. Open the box and take out the array box. (FIG.2)
3. Pull the cabinet+base out. (FIG.3)
4. Put the cabinet+base on the floor, in horizontal
position and remove the foam shells. (FIG.4)
5. Open the array box, take out the array, remove the
foam shells. (FIG.5-6)
6. Collect bolts, lock-nuts and aesthetic discs which
are placed in accessory box.
FIG.1 FIG.2 FIG.3
FIG.4 FIG.5 FIG.6

7
7. Remove the protective rubber tips from the four pre-installed bolts. (A pair of
bolts protrude from each of two metal plates in the front of the cabinet.)
8. Carefully, position the Tweeter/Midrange array over the four bolts. Note the
correct orientation is with the tweeter array above the midrange array. (FIG.7)
9. Place a locknut on each bolt and using the supplied lock nut driver tool, tighten
the four Lock Nuts. Do Not Over Tighten. When snug, stop. (FIG.8)
10. Cover each tightened lock nut with a magnetic cover.
11. Connect the two upper and two lower cables into the sockets on the back
of the Midrange/Tweeter Column. Red color coded labels mark the red cable
connectors.
12. There are five different elevation positions for the loudspeaker, which are
selected using the two knobs placed on the base aluminum supports:
Loosening and removing the knobs, you can adjust the speaker position sliding
the cabinet on the base supports. Once you've selected the position (0° - 7.5° - 15°
- 22.5° - 30°), place the knobs in related hole and screw until the speaker is fixed.
(FIG.9)
FIG.7
FIG.8 FIG.9

8
Installation
The XCS1.5K Loudspeaker is designed for use as a Center Channel in a Home Theater System. The XCS1.5K
has been developed to tonally match the McIntosh XRT2.1K and XRT1.1K Tower Loudspeakers, ensuring
proper timbre of vocals and instrumentals as the sonic image moves across the virtual stage in front of you.
Because room acoustics and placement may impact the response of the speaker, it is sometimes necessary to
have a professional installer conduct measurements and apply corrections.
The XCS1.5K Loudspeaker’s Smooth Frequency Response may be altered by large object(s) located in the path
of the sound waves or by locating the Loudspeaker too close to a side wall. There should be an unobstructed area
in front of the XCS1.5K Loudspeaker on either side of the center axis for the best performance. The optimum
location in a Home Theater System is directly under or in front of the TV/Monitor.
Prepare the Speaker Wire
If speaker wire is not already terminated, remove ½
inch (12.7 mm) of insulation from the wire end and
twist the strands together. For runs under 25 feet, use
at least 14AWG wire. For runs under 50 feet use at
least 12AWG, and for longer runs up to 100 feet, use
10AWG. 10AWG, being the larger wire, can be used in
all the above cases if desired. The above guidelines are
for 8 Ohm connections. The XCS1.5K is an 8 Ohm
speaker, but, for reference purposes, when using 4
Ohm speaker connections, subtract 2 from the gauge.
For 2 Ohms subtract 4. For example, a minimum
gauge for a 50 foot 2 ohm run would be 10AWG.
When using a very powerful amp with output of 1000
watts or more, it is best to use thicker speaker wire of
at least 12AWG in all cases.
Loudspeaker Input
Terminal Connection
When connecting the
speaker wire to the XCS1.5K
Loudspeaker Input Terminals,
please follow these steps:
1. Rotate the end of the Input
Terminal Post counterclockwise
until an opening appears.
2. Insert the Loudspeaker
hookup cable into the Input
Terminal Post opening or
the cable spade lug around
the center post of the Input
Terminal.
3. Rotate the end of the Input Terminal Post clockwise
until it is nger tight.
4. Place the supplied McIntosh wrench over the end of
the Input Terminal and rotate it one quarter of a turn
(90°) to secure the Loudspeaker cable connection. Do
not over tighten.
Opening
Tightening Input
Post
Opening Input Terminal

9
The patented, gold-plated Solid Cinch™ speaker
binding posts will also accept banana plug connec-
tions. Push the banana plug into the opening at the top
of the binding post.
Single Amplifier Connection
The XCS1.5K has three pairs of Input Terminals
labeled BASS, MID, and HIGH. If a single amplifier
is to be used to power the XCS1.5K, connect the
single amplifier to one pair of Input Terminals and the
supplied Jumper Cables can be used to connect the
remaining two pairs of Input Terminals. Attach the
Spade Terminals of the Jumper Cables as described
above in Loudspeaker Input Terminal Connection. Use
Jumpers to connect Negative Terminals to Negative
Terminals and Positive to Positive. In the end, the
pair of Input Terminals with the amplifier connected
should be daisy chained to the remaining terminals
that do not have an amplifier attached. Be careful to
observe correct polarity. Never connect an input pair
with an amplifier attached to another pair with
another amplifier attached.
Multiple Amplifier Connections
The XCS1.5K Speaker can be powered by up to
three separate power amplifiers. To use three power
amplifiers, follow the instructions “Loudspeaker Input
Terminal Connection” above for each pair of cables
from each power amplifier to each of the three pairs of
terminals on the XCS1.5K (HIGH, MID and BASS).
Do not use jumper cables, and always take care to
observe proper polarity.
To power the XCS1.5K with two amplifiers, connect
each power amp to a separate pair of terminals. Use a
pair of jumper cables to connect the shared terminals.
Typically, one amplifier would power the BASS, and
the HIGH and MID terminals would be powered by a
separate power amplifier with jumpers connecting the
pairs. It does not matter which pair of the jumpered
terminals you choose to connect to the Power
Amplifier.
Less Resistance
The XCS1.5K is an 8 Ohm speaker, and this is the
recommended connection from an amplifier. Some
people will use a 4 Ohm connection from an amplifier
as a kind of equalization. For instance, using a 4 Ohm
connection on the HIGH will result in a 3db drop in
that range. Bass can be lowered in the same manner
for use in a boomy room. If this is something you wish
to play around with, just remember to NEVER use a
higher Ohm output of an amplifier such as 16 Ohm.
This will result in heat generation beyond the ampli-
fier’s design.
Jumper Cables

10
Specications
System Driver Complement
Four 8” 8-Ohm long throw carbon fiber sandwich
cone Woofers, cascaded in pairs for woofer
and MR bands
Fourteen 2.5" 4-Ohm aluminum Midranges
Twenty-five 3/4" 4-Ohm aluminum dome Tweeters
Impedance
8 ohms Nominal
Frequency Response
32Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity
88dB (2.83V/1m equivalent)
Crossover Frequencies
150Hz, 500Hz, and 3kHz
Power Handling
1,500 Watts Maximum
General Specications
Finish Enclosures
High Gloss Black Aluminum Sides, Brushed
Aluminum Front and Back, High Gloss Black Top and
Bottom
Finish Grille
Black Knit Cloth with High Gloss Black Trim
Overall Dimensions
Width is 49-31/32 inches (126.92 cm)
Height is 17-3/16 inches (43.66 cm) including feet
Depth is 21-7/32 inches (53.9 cm)
Weight
178 pounds (80.74 kg) net
209 pounds (94.79 kg) in shipping carton
Packing Instructions
In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment
for shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly
as shown on the next page. To protect the finish of the
Loudspeaker it is advisable to place it in the original
protective cotton blue cover before placing them into
the shipping carton.
Use the original shipping carton and interior parts
only if they are all in good serviceable condition.
If a shipping carton or any of the interior part(s)
are needed, please call or write Customer Service
Department of McIntosh Laboratory. Please see the
Part List for the correct part numbers.
Quantity Part Number Description
1 034395 Top shipping carton
1 034396 Bottom shipping carton
1 034398 Top foam
1 034397 Bottom foam
1 034353 Blue Protective cloth
cover
Part List

11
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3

The continuous improvement of its products is the
policy of McIntosh Laboratory Incorporated who
reserve the right to improve design without notice.
Printed in the U.S.A.
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.
2 Chambers Street
Binghamton, NY 13903
www.mcintoshlabs.com
McIntosh Part No. 24104300