Audiolab M-DAC+ 230v version (sounds better than 120v version) w/external PSU

Description

The Audiolab M-DAC+ is a high-performance digital-to-analog converter designed to bring audiophile-grade digital playback into both traditional hi-fi systems and desktop listening environments. Building upon the success of the original M-DAC, the “Plus” version introduces improved power supply design, expanded high-resolution audio compatibility, and refined analog circuitry, making it one of the most versatile DACs in its class.

At the heart of the M-DAC+ is the ESS Sabre32 ES9018 DAC chipset, a widely respected 32-bit converter known for exceptional dynamic range, low distortion, and detailed sonic reproduction. Audiolab surrounds this chip with carefully engineered supporting circuitry, including a custom master clock designed to minimize jitter and maintain accurate timing in the digital signal. This precision helps ensure that digital audio is converted into analog form with maximum fidelity and minimal noise.

One of the defining characteristics of the M-DAC+ is its Class A JFET analog output stage, which provides a smooth and natural presentation while preserving the resolution delivered by the ESS DAC architecture. This design choice reflects Audiolab’s focus on blending digital precision with analog musicality, resulting in a sound that is both detailed and engaging.

The M-DAC+ is also designed to function as a digital preamplifier, allowing it to connect directly to a power amplifier or active speakers. Its precision volume control enables variable output operation, while fixed output mode allows it to be used purely as a DAC within an existing system. This flexibility makes it suitable for both minimalist digital setups and complex multi-component hi-fi systems.

Another notable feature is the unit’s extensive digital filtering options. The DAC includes 11 selectable filters—seven for PCM signals and four for DSD playback—allowing listeners to tailor the sound to their personal preferences or measurement requirements. These filters adjust parameters such as transient response and frequency roll-off, giving users a degree of sonic customization rarely found in DACs at this price level.

High-resolution audio support is a major strength of the M-DAC+. Through its USB input, the DAC can process PCM signals up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to DSD256, ensuring compatibility with modern high-resolution music libraries and streaming sources. Combined with its multiple digital inputs—including coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, and USB—the M-DAC+ can easily integrate with CD transports, computers, music servers, and other digital sources.

Audiolab also improved the internal power supply compared to earlier models. The M-DAC+ incorporates a precision-wound toroidal transformer and separate power supply stages for analog and digital circuits, reducing interference and enhancing overall performance. This careful power design contributes to the unit’s low noise floor and high dynamic range.

With its combination of high-end DAC technology, preamplifier functionality, headphone amplification, and extensive connectivity, the Audiolab M-DAC+ remains a highly capable centerpiece for digital audio systems.

Review Highlights

Audio reviewers consistently praise the M-DAC+ for its balance of precision and musicality.

• What Hi-Fi? noted that “the audiolab M-DAC+ gets an awful lot right,” concluding that the upgraded model fully justifies its improved designation.

• Many listeners highlight its clean, dynamic sound and excellent detail retrieval, qualities associated with the Sabre DAC architecture combined with Audiolab’s analog output stage.

• Reviewers also emphasize its versatility as both DAC and digital preamp, making it suitable for a wide range of system configurations.

Key Specifications

• Product Type: Digital-to-Analog Converter / Digital Preamplifier

• DAC Chipset: ESS Sabre32 ES9018 Reference DAC

• Maximum Resolution:

  • PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz (USB)

  • PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz (coax/optical/AES)

  • DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 support

• Digital Inputs:

  • 2 × Coaxial

  • 2 × Optical (Toslink)

  • 1 × AES/EBU

  • 1 × USB (PC)

  • 1 × USB for mobile devices

• Digital Outputs: 1 × Coaxial, 1 × Optical

• Analog Outputs:

  • 1 × Balanced XLR

  • 1 × RCA

• Output Voltage:

  • 4.5V RMS (balanced)

  • 2.25V RMS (RCA)

• Output Stage: Class A JFET analog stage

• Selectable Filters: 11 digital filter options (7 PCM, 4 DSD)

• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz ±0.2dB

• Dynamic Range: >120 dB (balanced)

• THD: <0.002%

• Dimensions: 247 × 114 × 292 mm

• Weight: Approx. 3.7 kg

In summary, the Audiolab M-DAC+ combines cutting-edge digital conversion technology with thoughtful analog engineering and extensive connectivity. Its ability to function as a DAC, digital preamplifier, and headphone amplifier makes it a highly flexible component that continues to be respected among audiophiles seeking precise and musical digital playback.