The Musical Fidelity M3x DAC is an exceptional entry point into high-end digital-to-analog conversion, specifically designed for audiophiles who demand technical precision without the extreme cost of flagship-tier components. Drawing from the advanced engineering of the acclaimed M6x series, the
M3x DAC combines a sophisticated upsampling design with high-quality physical construction to deliver a clear, natural, and detailed sound.
Advanced Upsampling Design
At the heart of the M3x DAC is a high-performance Burr Brown PCM1795 DAC chip. To maximize its potential, Musical Fidelity integrates the SRC4392, a high-end sample rate converter tasked with re-clocking all incoming PCM signals and upsampling them to 192 kHz. This sophisticated implementation significantly reduces jitter and distortion, elevating digital music playback with enhanced clarity and a more holographic soundstage. While PCM signals benefit from this upsampling, DSD files are handled natively up to DSD256 (via USB) to preserve their original recording format.
Technical Precision and Power
Musical Fidelity’s commitment to “Super Silent” performance is evident in the power supply architecture. The M3x DAC features a custom-designed toroidal transformer with low core saturation, which is ideal for digital audio due to its extremely low electromagnetic radiation. This is complemented by industrial-grade power sockets equipped with EMI filters and DC blockers to eliminate transformer hum and external interference.
The internal circuitry utilizes a meticulous PCB layout where both the single-ended RCA and balanced XLR outputs have their own dedicated buffers. This ensure high current drive, large output voltage swing, and exceptionally low noise levels, allowing the unit to maintain signal integrity even over long cable runs.
Robust Build and Connectivity
The M3x DAC is housed in an uncompromisingly rigid chassis consisting of a heavy steel case and a thick front panel milled from extruded aluminum. This “mechanically sound” construction serves a dual purpose: it provides a premium aesthetic and shields the sensitive internal circuits from external electromagnetic fields.
For versatile integration into any high-fidelity system, the unit offers comprehensive connectivity:
Digital Inputs: 1x USB Audio Class 2.0 (Type B), 2x Coaxial S/PDIF, and 2x Optical (Toslink).
Analog Outputs: 1 pair of balanced XLR and 1 pair of RCA (selectable between fixed and variable levels).
Designed and made in the EU, the M3x DAC is a gateway to high-resolution audio, offering a spacious and dynamic listening experience that accurately mirrors the original recording venue.
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