Bricasti M3 DAC

The M3 converts PCM with a 24-bit delta-sigma DAC and DSD through a separate native 1-bit path, across two fully differential conversion channels. The MDx processor and DDS clocking keep signals at their native sample rate.

Two independent linear power supplies feed the analog and digital sections. The chassis is CNC-milled from aluminum sections for thermal stability, vibration damping and RF shielding. An analog level control covers a 90 dB range and lets the M3 drive a power amplifier directly; it can also be bypassed.

Options

M3R adds a remote control. M3H adds a headphone driver with independent amplifiers for the positive and negative phases on its 4-pin XLR output, for fully balanced headphones, plus a TRS stereo output. A network player card adds Ethernet playback.

Option pricing: M3R remote, $500; M3H headphone driver, $500; network player, $1,000.

Specifications

• Conversion: PCM 24-bit delta-sigma, 8x oversampling; native 1-bit DSD
• Digital inputs: AES/EBU (XLR), S/PDIF (RCA), Toslink (44.1–96 kHz), USB; Ethernet optional
• USB: 44.1–384 kHz; DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 native and DoP
• Unbalanced output (RCA): 2 V RMS at 0 dB; 40 ohms
• THD+N at 1 kHz: 0.0008% at 0 dBFS; 0.0004% at -30 dBFS
• M3H headphone output: 8.8 V or more than 100 mW into 600 ohms
• Dimensions: 14 x 11.25 x 2.5 in; 10 lb
• Power consumption: 15 W
• Finish: Classic black or Argento silver
• Warranty: 2 years parts and labor