Matrix Audio X-Sabre 3 Music Streaming DAC

Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 Music Streaming DAC

Supreme High-Res Audio in a Compact Form

Elevate your digital listening with the Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3, a compact music streaming DAC engineered in China for audiophiles seeking flagship performance without the bulk. This third-generation gem refines Matrix's SABRE series with the ES9038PRO chip, femtosecond clocking, and seamless streaming integration, delivering DSD up to 22.4MHz and PCM 32-bit/768kHz playback from local files, NAS, or services like TIDAL and Qobuz. Ideal for desktop HiFi or minimalist setups, the X-SABRE 3 combines transport, DAC, and preamp duties in a sleek aluminum chassis, unlocking lifelike detail, dynamic punch, and spatial magic that rivals larger separates.

Key Features of the Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3  

• ES9038PRO DAC Chip: Flagship ESS Sabre implementation supporting native DSD22.4MHz, MQA unfolding, and full hi-res PCM, with ultra-low distortion (THD+N <0.00010%) and exceptional dynamic range (>134dB on XLR) for natural timbre and expansive soundstaging.  
  
• Crystek CCHD-950 Femtosecond Clock: Async mode uses internal clock for jitter rejection, while Sync mode aligns with front-end sources; switchable via touch panel for precise timing and smear-free transients across all formats.  
  
• Advanced Streaming Integration: Roon Ready certified, with TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP, vTuner, and MA Remote app for iOS/Android control of local playback, online radio, and services like Baidu Cloud or QQ Music.  
  
• Versatile Connectivity: Multiple digital inputs (USB audio, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical, IIS-LVDS) for sources up to 768kHz/32-bit and DSD22.4MHz; Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz) for stable network streaming.  
  
• Pristine Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR and RCA line outs (up to 4.8VRMS on XLR) with fully isolated chambers for digital/analog separation, ensuring black-background silence and effortless drive for external amps or active speakers.  
  
• Isolated Power Supply: Separate sections for digital, analog, and network circuits minimize noise and interference, powered by a low-consumption design (<33W max) with 12V trigger for automatic system syncing.  
  
• Intuitive User Interface: High-resolution LCD display shows album art and status; redesigned chassis with tempered glass top and hidden antennas for a sleek, vibration-resistant build.  
  
• Broad Format Support: Handles MQA Studio streams, DoP/Native DSD, and lossless PCM from various protocols, with bit-perfect Roon playback for uncompromised fidelity.

Why Choose the Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 for Your HiFi Upgrade?

The X-SABRE 3 packs reference-level DAC prowess into a desktop-friendly footprint, surpassing entry-level streamers with its femtosecond clock architecture and isolated design that deliver analog warmth and digital precision without fatigue. Unlike bloated all-in-ones, its focused integration excels in revealing subtle textures—from the resonance of acoustic guitars to the drive of electronic bass—while streaming capabilities simplify access to high-res ecosystems without compromising purity. Audiophiles applaud its "effortless resolution," stable Wi-Fi performance, and value as a versatile upgrade path, making it perfect for pairing with powered monitors, tube amps, or as a standalone player. With Matrix's firmware upgradability and rigorous testing, it's a smart, enduring investment that scales from casual streaming to critical listening.

Detailed Benefits for Your Audio System  

• Pinpoint Timing and Detail: Femtosecond clocks eradicate jitter, enhancing transient accuracy and soundstage depth for genres from jazz to orchestral.  
  
• Versatile Streaming Freedom: Native app support and Roon compatibility simplify access to vast libraries, with low-noise Wi-Fi ensuring stable high-res delivery.  
  
• Pure, Powerful Outputs: Balanced analog stages drive demanding loads with headroom, preserving dynamics and timbre integrity.  
  
• Silent, Refined Performance: Isolated power and chambers quiet the noise floor, spotlighting micro-dynamics and ambient cues for immersive, fatigue-free sessions.

Technical Specifications  

• DAC Chip: ES9038PRO (MQA hardware decoder).  
  
• Supported Formats: PCM 32-bit/768kHz, DSD22.4MHz (native/DoP), MQA full unfolding.  
  
• Digital Inputs: USB (up to 768kHz/32-bit, DSD22.4MHz native); AES/EBU/Coaxial/Optical (up to 192kHz/24-bit, DSD2.8MHz DoP); IIS-LVDS (up to 768kHz/32-bit, DSD22.4MHz native).  
  
• Digital Outputs: None (focus on analog conversion).  
  
• Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR (4.8VRMS max, SNR >134dB, THD+N <0.00010%); RCA (2.4VRMS max, SNR >128dB, THD+N <0.00015%); Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz ±0.05dB (-3dB@86kHz); Crosstalk: >-151dB (XLR).  
  
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi dual-band (2.4/5GHz), Roon Ready, AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP, TIDAL/Spotify/Qobuz Connect.  
  
• Clock Jitter: Femtosecond (Crystek CCHD-950, Async/Sync modes).  
  
• Power: AC 100-240V 50/60Hz (<33W max, <4W standby); 12V trigger in/out.  
  
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 310 x 218 x 43 mm (12.20" x 8.58" x 1.69").  
  
• Weight: 3.4 kg (7.49 lbs).  
  
• Accessories: RM3 remote, power cable, quick start guide, warranty card.
  

Ready to Stream and Decode with Flagship Finesse?

The Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 Music Streaming DAC is your compact portal to ultra-high-res audio excellence, blending ES9038PRO mastery with seamless streaming. Shop now at All Elite Audio for swift fulfillment and pro guidance—ignite your desktop HiFi today.