McIntosh XCS1.5K Center Channel Line Array Loudspeaker

The McIntosh XCS1.5K is the center channel loudspeaker voiced to match the XRT2.1K and XRT1.1K line array floor standing loudspeakers — providing seamless tonal integration across the front L/C/R stage of a McIntosh reference cinema system. 43 drivers arranged in a horizontal line array (rotated 90 degrees relative to the vertical line arrays of the XRT-series towers) deliver the same controlled dispersion character with the horizontal orientation appropriate for a center-channel role positioned above or below a projection screen.

The ported 3- and 4-way hybrid design supports tri-amping and tri-wiring for the most demanding electronic configurations. Line array topology at the center channel is unusual in high-end home cinema, and the payoff is dialogue and effect placement that remains sonically consistent as a listener moves across the seating rows — no on-axis-only sweet spot, no phasey lobing between adjacent seats. The 1,500-watt power rating allows the XCS1.5K to keep dynamic pace with the XRT-series front L/R channels during the most demanding cinema content — nothing about the center channel's sonic character falls behind the mains.

Natural amplification includes McIntosh's MC303 three-channel amplifier (built specifically for L/C/R duty with matched output stages across all three channels), or a dedicated MC275, MC1502, or MC152 driving the center channel alongside monoblock pairs on the mains. For a McIntosh reference cinema system built around the XRT2.1K or XRT1.1K, the XCS1.5K is the definitive center channel choice.

Available at LMC — walk in during business hours or book ahead.