Audiolab M-DAC Mini DAC/head amp: Compact & Curvy

17th May 2017

The Audiolab M-DAC Mini incorporates an array of inputs and outputs. There are optical and coaxial digital inputs and outputs, Type-A and Mini-B USB inputs (these are asynchronous with two dedicated master clocks), stereo RCA hi-fi outputs and a 6.3mm headphone socket. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, with support for the aptX codec, is also included

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It also  features a Class A JFET output stage and dedicated headphone amp section while the circuitry shares much with its big brother, the £800 M-DAC+ such as the ESS Technology patented 32bit HyperStream DAC architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, unique to the Sabre32 Reference family.

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The M-DAC Mini is equipped to process PCM audio data up to 32bit/384kHz via USB plus DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256. You’ll also find an analogue volume control incorporating an ALPS potentiometer.

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Meanwhile, the low pass filter design on the DAC output stage uses EVOX and Panasonic low-ESR capacitors. An included mains charger is included in the package to charge the battery supply and iOS devices can be charged from the M-DAC Mini whether the unit is connected to the mains or not.

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The chassis is injection-moulded polypropylene and machined aluminium front panel and controls. Price is £300.

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To learn more, click www.audiolab.co.uk