McIntosh Celebrates 60 Years of Grateful Dead with Stealie Speakers.
McIntosh has released a special edition of its RS150 and RS250 wireless speakers, featuring the iconic "Stealie" skull and lightning logo of the Grateful Dead.
The band Grateful Dead, known for its influence on music and culture since its formation in 1965, is celebrating its 60th anniversary with the release of limited edition speakers from McIntosh. This new series includes two models, the RS150 and the RS250, both adorned with the iconic skull and lightning logo, known as "Stealie." This design isn’t new, as McIntosh previously used the same artwork to pay tribute to the last tour of Dead & Company in 2023.
On this occasion, the dancing bears that previously decorated the speakers have been replaced with a design that highlights the band's name alongside a new version of the "Stealie" logo, surrounded by the years marking the beginning and the 60th anniversary: 1965 and 2025. The RS250 model also includes a message that reads “Sixty Years So Far,” referencing the continuity of Dead & Company, as mentioned by John Mayer, one of the band members.
These speakers, although priced high, promise superior sound quality and functionality. The RS250, which retails for $3,500, has an additional cost of $500 compared to the standard model. The RS150, on the other hand, is available for $1,500, which represents a $300 premium.
Both models feature Wi-Fi connectivity compatible with platforms like Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Google Cast, and AirPlay 2, as well as advanced Bluetooth capabilities including support for aptX and aptX HD. Audiophiles will also appreciate that these devices can function as Roon endpoints. The RS150 is a 120-watt mono speaker that includes a woofer and a tweeter, while the RS250 is a more complex stereo system with eight drivers and 650 watts of power. The latter also offers wired connection options for devices through various inputs, including HDMI ARC and digital optical.
The partnership between Grateful Dead and McIntosh has deep roots, dating back to when the company designed a colossal sound system called the Wall of Sound for the band's concerts in 1973, which was the largest used at a live event at the time.
