{"product_id":"matrix-audio-x-sabre-3","title":"Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 Music Streaming DAC","description":"\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMatrix Audio X-SABRE 3 Music Streaming DAC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-Sabre series returns — now with full network streaming built in, and nothing compromised.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 is a dedicated network streaming DAC and line-level preamplifier in a compact, elegant chassis — no headphone amplifier, no unnecessary circuitry, just reference-grade digital-to-analog conversion with full modern streaming capability. It is built around the ESS ES9038PRO DAC, timed by a Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock, with a chassis design that separates power supply, digital processing, and analog output into three physically isolated internal compartments. At 4.8 Vrms balanced XLR output, 134 dB SNR, and less than 0.00010% THD+N, the X-SABRE 3 delivers measured performance that is indistinguishable from reference. For audiophiles who listen through speakers and want a streaming DAC that pulls no punches on conversion quality while bringing TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, and AirPlay 2 streaming to a traditional two-channel system without added complexity, the X-SABRE 3 is exactly the product.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAvailable now at All Elite Audio, your authorized Matrix Audio dealer in Timonium, Maryland — with in-store demos, expert guidance, and nationwide shipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eESS ES9038PRO DAC With Crystek CCHD-950 Femtosecond Clock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-SABRE 3 is built on the ESS ES9038PRO — ESS Technology's professional flagship 32-bit DAC chip, the same chip used across Matrix Audio's top-tier Element series products. The ES9038PRO delivers the exceptional dynamic range, linearity, and low-distortion conversion that its measured specifications reflect: 134 dB SNR and less than 0.00010% THD+N at 1 kHz from the balanced XLR output are figures that represent the top tier of achievable performance in digital-to-analog conversion at any price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eClock precision is provided by the Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond-grade oscillator, which serves as the master timing reference in asynchronous mode — the X-SABRE 3's internal clock takes over from any clock embedded in an incoming signal, ensuring the DAC chip runs from the most precise and stable timing source available. In synchronous mode, the internal CCHD-950 is disabled and the DAC depends entirely on the clock from the front-end device, which is the appropriate setting when connecting a high-quality transport or DDC that provides a superior external clock reference. The async\/sync mode is switched directly from the front panel touch controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThree Separate Internal Compartments — Power, Digital, Analog\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eOne of the X-SABRE 3's most important but invisible engineering features is its chassis architecture. The CNC-machined aluminum chassis is divided into three physically separate internal compartments: one housing the toroidal power supply transformer, one housing the main digital and analog circuit board, and one housing the display section. These machined cavities provide physical screening between the power supply and the signal circuits, preventing electromagnetic fields from the toroidal transformer from coupling into the sensitive digital and analog stages. The separation between digital and analog ground planes further ensures that switching noise from the digital processing section has no electrical path to the analog output stage — the foundation of the X-SABRE 3's ultra-low noise floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eXMOS XU216 USB Interface — Four Configurable IIS-LVDS Settings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-SABRE 3's USB input is implemented using the XMOS XU216 — a dedicated, high-performance USB audio receiver processor used in top-tier DACs and DDC converters for its low-jitter, high-resolution USB audio handling. The XU216 supports asynchronous USB audio transfer, PCM up to 32-bit\/768 kHz, DSD512 native, DSD via DoP, and MQA hardware decoding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe IIS-LVDS input via HDMI connector also accepts PCM up to 32-bit\/768 kHz and DSD512 native, and supports four software-selectable pin configuration modes to ensure compatibility with a wide range of transport and DDC devices — IIS lacks a universal standard for pin assignment, and the four configurable settings in the X-SABRE 3 make it compatible with devices from different manufacturers without requiring custom cabling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTempered Glass Top Panel With Hidden Wi-Fi Antennas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-SABRE 3's top panel is made from tempered glass rather than the brushed aluminum used on most of the chassis. Concealed beneath the glass are the dual-band Wi-Fi antennas operating on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This design choice keeps the exterior completely uncluttered — no external antenna stubs, no protrusions — while providing the same dual-band Wi-Fi coverage as conventional external antenna designs. The glass panel also contributes to the X-SABRE 3's distinctive, understated aesthetic: a low-slung, compact silver or black chassis with a glass lid that suggests precision instrument rather than consumer electronics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirst Matrix Audio Product With TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eWhen the X-SABRE 3 launched, it was the first Matrix Audio product to incorporate TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect streaming integration — a milestone in the X-Sabre lineup that previously offered only DAC functionality. The addition of these services, alongside Roon Ready certification, AirPlay 2, and DLNA\/UPnP network playback, transformed the X-Sabre platform from a pure DAC into a complete streaming DAC that could serve as the sole source component in a modern two-channel system without requiring a separate streaming device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFixed and Variable Output — Direct Power Amplifier Connection\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-SABRE 3 outputs analog line-level signals through balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA — no headphone output is provided, making it a dedicated two-channel line-level component. Both fixed-level and variable-level output modes are available. In variable mode, the X-SABRE 3 uses a DSP-driven volume control to adjust the output level, allowing direct connection to a power amplifier or active speakers without a separate preamplifier in the chain. Fixed-level output provides the maximum output voltage for connection to an external preamplifier. Fixed balanced XLR output is 4.8 Vrms; RCA output is 2.4 Vrms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eA 12V trigger port enables automatic power management — when the X-SABRE 3 powers on or enters standby, it can simultaneously command a connected power amplifier or other trigger-compatible component to follow, eliminating manual power switching across the system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComplete Digital Input Suite\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-SABRE 3 provides one of the most complete digital input selections in its class. Optical and coaxial S\/PDIF inputs accept PCM up to 24-bit\/192 kHz and DSD64 via DoP. The AES\/EBU balanced XLR digital input also supports up to 24-bit\/192 kHz and DSD64 via DoP, providing strong common-mode rejection for long cable runs and professional-format sources. USB Audio via USB-B accepts PCM up to 32-bit\/768 kHz, DSD512 native and DoP, and MQA. The IIS-LVDS input via HDMI accepts PCM up to 32-bit\/768 kHz and DSD512 native with four configurable pin settings. Network streaming via Gigabit Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi handles Roon, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA, and UPnP.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere the X-SABRE 3 Sits in the Matrix Audio Lineup\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe X-SABRE 3 is a pure two-channel DAC — no headphone output, focused entirely on the analog line-level output for speakers or an external headphone amplifier. This positions it differently from the Element series: where the element X2 and element M2 include headphone amplifiers and are built on the MA Player streaming platform, the X-SABRE 3 is designed specifically as a source component for a traditional hi-fi system, with a more compact chassis and a direct, minimalist streaming implementation. For listeners who use speakers as their primary output and want a dedicated streaming DAC at $2,999 with reference-level measured performance, the X-SABRE 3 is a compelling and well-established choice with a strong critical reception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Specifications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003eDAC Chip: ESS ES9038PRO (32-bit) USB Processor: XMOS XU216 Clock: Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond oscillator; async and sync modes selectable from front panel XLR Balanced Output: 4.8 Vrms; SNR 134 dB; THD+N less than 0.00010% at 1 kHz RCA Unbalanced Output: 2.4 Vrms; SNR 128 dB; THD+N less than 0.00015% at 1 kHz Output Mode: Fixed level or variable (DSP-driven volume control) Headphone Output: None — line-level output only Digital Inputs: — Optical TOSLINK: PCM 24-bit\/192 kHz, DSD64 DoP — Coaxial RCA: PCM 24-bit\/192 kHz, DSD64 DoP — AES\/EBU XLR: PCM 24-bit\/192 kHz, DSD64 DoP — USB-B (XMOS XU216): PCM 32-bit\/768 kHz, DSD512 native and DoP, MQA — IIS-LVDS HDMI: PCM 32-bit\/768 kHz, DSD512 native; 4 configurable pin settings — Network streaming: Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA, UPnP Network: Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz; hidden beneath tempered glass top) Trigger: 12V trigger in and out Chassis: CNC-machined aluminum with three separate internal compartments; tempered glass top panel; toroidal power supply Display: Circular front panel display; capacitive touch controls Colors: Silver, Black Dimensions (W x D x H): 310 x 218 x 43 mm Weight: 3.4 kg Standby Power: Less than 4W Maximum Power: Less than 33W Warranty: 1 year manufacturer warranty\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy Buy From All Elite Audio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAll Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer located in Timonium, Maryland — part of the greater Baltimore area. We carry the full Matrix Audio lineup including the X-SABRE 3, the complete Element series, and the M Series reference components. Our team can help you determine whether the X-SABRE 3, the element X2, or the element X2 Pure is the right streaming DAC for your specific system and listening goals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eWe offer white-glove service, in-store demos, and support before and after your purchase. Whether you are local to Maryland or ordering nationwide, we are here to help you get the most from your system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003eCall: 443-402-5055 Text: 443-402-5064 Visit: 1921 York Rd, Timonium, MD 21093\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions — Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 and who is it for?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 is a dedicated network streaming DAC and line-level preamplifier — no headphone amplifier — designed for listeners who use speakers as their primary output and want a reference-quality streaming DAC as the source component in a two-channel system. It combines the ESS ES9038PRO DAC with Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clocking, three separate internal chassis compartments isolating power, digital, and analog circuits, full Roon Ready and TIDAL Connect streaming, and balanced XLR line outputs delivering 4.8 Vrms at 134 dB SNR and less than 0.00010% THD+N.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the X-SABRE 3 have a headphone output?\u003c\/strong\u003e No. The X-SABRE 3 is a pure line-level DAC with balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs only. It has no headphone amplifier or headphone jack of any kind. Listeners who need an integrated headphone output should consider the element X2 or element M2. For those who use speakers and want the best possible conversion quality in a compact chassis, the X-SABRE 3's absence of a headphone stage means every design decision is focused on the line-level output path.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the difference between async and sync mode on the X-SABRE 3?\u003c\/strong\u003e In asynchronous mode — the default — the Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond oscillator inside the X-SABRE 3 is the master clock for the DAC chip. Any clock signal from a front-end device is discarded. This is the preferred mode for lowest jitter and best measured performance using any input. In synchronous mode, the internal CCHD-950 is disabled and the DAC locks to the clock embedded in the incoming digital signal from the front-end device. This mode is appropriate for listeners who connect a high-quality transport or DDC that provides a superior clock reference they want the X-SABRE 3 to follow. The mode is switched directly from the front panel touch controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy does the X-SABRE 3 have four configurable IIS-LVDS settings?\u003c\/strong\u003e IIS (I²S) is a high-bandwidth digital audio interface that carries audio data at the chip level between a transport and a DAC. Unlike S\/PDIF or AES\/EBU, there is no universal standard for which signal appears on which pin in an IIS-over-HDMI connection — different manufacturers assign the signals differently. The X-SABRE 3's four software-selectable IIS pin configurations allow it to be compatible with transports and DDC devices from a wide range of manufacturers without requiring custom cables. This makes the X-SABRE 3 particularly versatile as a target DAC for users who own or are considering an IIS-capable transport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the significance of the three separate internal compartments?\u003c\/strong\u003e The X-SABRE 3's CNC-machined chassis is divided into three physical compartments: one for the toroidal power supply transformer, one for the main digital and analog circuit board, and one for the display section. Physical separation prevents electromagnetic fields from the power supply from coupling into the sensitive signal circuits, and provides screening between the high-frequency digital processing and the low-level analog output stage. This compartmentalization is one of the primary reasons the X-SABRE 3 achieves its 134 dB SNR — you cannot measure that figure without keeping the noise sources physically away from the signal path.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use the X-SABRE 3 as a preamplifier to drive a power amplifier directly?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. The X-SABRE 3 offers both fixed-level and variable-level output modes. In variable mode, a DSP-driven volume control adjusts the output level through the balanced XLR or RCA outputs, allowing direct connection to a power amplifier or active speakers without a separate preamplifier. Fixed mode delivers the full 4.8 Vrms balanced output at unity gain for connection to an external preamplifier. The 12V trigger output can simultaneously command a connected power amplifier on or off when the X-SABRE 3 powers on or enters standby.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat streaming services does the X-SABRE 3 support and what makes it historically significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e The X-SABRE 3 was the first Matrix Audio product to support TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect — a milestone for the X-Sabre platform which previously existed only as a pure DAC without streaming integration. Current streaming support includes TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, AirPlay 2, DLNA, and UPnP. Network connectivity is via Gigabit Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi concealed beneath the tempered glass top panel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does the X-SABRE 3 compare to the element X2 and element X2 Pure?\u003c\/strong\u003e All three use the ESS ES9038PRO DAC and Crystek CCHD-950 clock. The element X2 adds an eight-unit fully balanced headphone amplifier, analog RCA inputs, and the Hyper-Control preamplifier — it runs MA Player OS for streaming. The element X2 Pure uses dual ES9039PRO chips in a more refined dual-mono architecture, with Nichicon KG capacitors and CBVB vibration feet, also without headphone output. The X-SABRE 3 is compact, elegant, and specifically designed as a traditional two-channel streaming DAC with a more streamlined user experience. It is the natural choice for listeners who want a focused, no-compromise streaming DAC at $2,999 without the Element series feature set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat warranty does the Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 include?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 carries a one-year manufacturer warranty. All Elite Audio is a fully authorized Matrix Audio dealer, ensuring your warranty is valid and supported.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere can I buy the Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 and hear it in person?\u003c\/strong\u003e All Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer with a full home audio showroom located at 1921 York Rd, Timonium, Maryland 21093. We carry the full Matrix Audio lineup and can demonstrate the X-SABRE 3 in a two-channel speaker system context. Call us at 443-402-5055 or text 443-402-5064. We also ship nationwide.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matrix Audio","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44738358050869,"sku":null,"price":2999.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0632\/1704\/1461\/files\/6_1193f1f3-3403-4dd2-8d7d-a20c61d4adc4.png?v=1760476660","url":"https:\/\/alleliteaudio.com\/products\/matrix-audio-x-sabre-3","provider":"All Elite Audio","version":"1.0","type":"link"}