Musical Fidelity M3xDAC 32 Bit Dual Mono DAC

Overview

The Musical Fidelity M3xDAC brings a genuine dual mono topology to the desktop and main system alike, pairing a Texas Instruments PCM1795 converter per channel with a rigid, cleanly laid out chassis. British engineering runs deep here, with an emphasis on low noise, natural tonality, and long term listening comfort rather than a forced, hyped presentation.

Connectivity is thoughtfully broad. You get two coaxial inputs, two optical inputs, and asynchronous USB-B, so a streamer, disc player, television, and computer can all live comfortably on one converter. Outputs include both fixed and variable RCA line and balanced XLR, letting the M3xDAC feed a power amp directly or slot into a traditional preamp based system.

Burr Brown SRC4392 upsampling handles incoming data with care, and the 7 kg build reflects the substantial power supply and shielding inside. As a new authorized Musical Fidelity dealer in Maryland, All Elite Audio is glad to help you audition the M3xDAC and hear its relaxed, resolving character in your own room.

Key Features

• True Dual Mono Architecture. Separate conversion per channel supports strong stereo separation and a stable, well defined soundstage that stays composed on complex passages.
• Texas Instruments PCM1795 DAC. The PCM1795 converter anchors the design with a smooth, detailed presentation that many listeners describe as natural and easy to enjoy over long sessions.
• Comprehensive Digital Inputs. Two coaxial, two optical, and a USB-B input let you connect streamers, disc players, televisions, and computers to a single converter.
• Balanced and Single Ended Outputs. Both XLR and RCA outputs are provided in fixed and variable modes, so you can run into a preamp or drive a power amp directly.
• Burr Brown SRC4392 Upsampling. Dedicated sample rate conversion manages incoming digital data for clean, consistent handling across your sources.
• Substantial British Build. At 7 kg with a full width 440 mm chassis, the M3xDAC houses a serious power supply and shielding for quiet, stable operation.
• Variable Output Flexibility. The variable line outputs allow direct connection to active speakers or a power amplifier when you want to simplify your signal path.

How the M3xDAC Compares

Musical Fidelity M3xDAC vs Audiolab D7 DAC/Headphone Amp

The Audiolab D7 adds an onboard headphone amp and a display driven feature set, making it a strong pick if you want an all in one desktop hub. The M3xDAC leans toward a purist dual mono converter for a main system.

Musical Fidelity M3xDAC vs Audiolab D9 DAC/Headphone Amp

The D9 steps up Audiolab's flexible platform with headphone drive and extensive controls. Choose the M3xDAC if you prefer a British voiced, dual mono converter focused on line level performance.

Musical Fidelity M3xDAC vs Matrix Audio ND-1 Audio DAC

The Matrix ND-1 emphasizes a modern, network friendly approach. The M3xDAC appeals to listeners who want traditional wired inputs and Musical Fidelity's relaxed, resolving character.

Musical Fidelity M3xDAC vs EverSolo DAC Z10 Flagship DAC, Preamplifier & Headphone Amplifier

The EverSolo Z10 combines DAC, preamp, and headphone amp with a rich touchscreen experience. The M3xDAC is a more focused converter for those who prefer a dedicated dual mono design.

Musical Fidelity M3xDAC vs Musical Fidelity M6xDAC (next step up)

The M6xDAC uses dual differential ES9038Q2M chips with a 32 bit Hyperstream II circuit and adds AES/EBU input and a 6.3 mm headphone output.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Musical Fidelity M3xDAC?

It is a 32 bit dual mono digital to analog converter from British brand Musical Fidelity, built around the Texas Instruments PCM1795 chip with a full complement of digital inputs and balanced outputs.

Which DAC chip does the M3xDAC use?

It uses the Texas Instruments PCM1795 converter in a dual mono configuration.

What does dual mono mean here?

Dual mono means each channel has its own dedicated conversion stage, which supports strong channel separation and a stable, well defined stereo image.

What digital inputs are provided?

The M3xDAC offers two coaxial inputs, two optical inputs, and a USB-B input.

Does it have a USB input for my computer?

Yes, it includes a USB-B input for connecting a computer or compatible streaming source.

What analog outputs does it have?

It provides RCA line outputs in fixed and variable modes, plus XLR balanced outputs in fixed and variable modes.

Can I connect the M3xDAC directly to a power amp?

Yes, the variable output mode lets you drive a power amplifier or active speakers directly without a separate preamp.

Does it use upsampling?

Yes, it uses a Burr Brown SRC4392 for sample rate conversion of incoming digital signals.

How much does the M3xDAC weigh?

It weighs 7 kg, reflecting its substantial power supply and shielding.

What are the dimensions?

It measures 440 x 90 x 365 mm (W x H x D), a full width component that fits standard racks.

Can I connect a television to it?

Yes, most televisions offer an optical output, and the M3xDAC has two optical inputs to accommodate that.

Does it work with a CD transport?

Yes, connect a transport through one of the coaxial or optical inputs for high quality conversion.

Is it a good match for a streamer?

Absolutely. Feed a streamer through coaxial, optical, or USB and let the M3xDAC handle conversion.

Does the M3xDAC have a headphone output?

The M3xDAC is a dedicated converter. If a built in headphone amp is a priority, ask us about the Audiolab D7 or D9, which include headphone stages.

How does it compare to the Audiolab D9?

The D9 is a flexible all in one with headphone drive and extensive controls, while the M3xDAC is a focused dual mono converter with a British voicing. The right choice depends on your feature needs.

How does it compare to the EverSolo Z10?

The EverSolo Z10 bundles DAC, preamp, and headphone amp with a large touchscreen, whereas the M3xDAC concentrates on dedicated dual mono conversion for a traditional system.

Can it serve as a preamp?

In variable mode it can act as a source and volume stage, allowing a direct connection to a power amp for a simplified signal path.

Is Musical Fidelity a reputable brand?

Yes, Musical Fidelity is a long established British HiFi brand known for well engineered amplifiers and digital components.

Is All Elite Audio an authorized Musical Fidelity dealer?

Yes, All Elite Audio is a new authorized Musical Fidelity dealer in Maryland, so your purchase includes full factory support.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?

As an authorized Musical Fidelity dealer in Maryland, All Elite Audio offers genuine products, full manufacturer warranty support, and knowledgeable guidance to help you integrate the M3xDAC into your system with confidence.