M3 vs Hegel D50
The D50's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the M3's 120 dB and its thd 0.000% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (384 kHz).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
DigitalDACsStreamers
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$5,000 - $6,500
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the M3
The Bricasti Design M3 DAC delivers outstanding performance in an accessible price range, incorporating two fully differential conversion channels with separate PCM and native DSD paths using ADI 1955 converters in mono configuration for PCM and proprietary one-bit NDSD for DSD. It employs precision DDS clocking to minimize jitter, dual independent linear power supplies for low noise isolation, and a bypassable preamp-class analog level control for direct power amp drive. Housed in a CNC-milled aluminum chassis for vibration damping and RF shielding, it supports high-resolution audio with versatile connectivity including optional Ethernet streaming. Optional upgrades include network interface, remote control, and headphone amplifier (M3H). It remains current in production with MDx processor upgrades available.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 24-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 384 kHz
- DSD Support
- DSD256
- MQA Support
- No
- DAC Chip
- Dual ADI 1955 (stereo in mono config for PCM), NDSD pure 1-bit for DSD
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.001%
- SNR
- 120 dB
- Output Voltage
- 4.0V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 40Ω
- Max Output Voltage
- 4.0V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- Yes
- Digital Inputs
- XLR AES/EBU 24-bit single wire, RCA/BNC SPDIF, Optical Toslink (44.1-96kHz), USB 2, RJ45 Ethernet (optional)
- Analog Inputs
- XLR balanced (pin 2 hot), RCA unbalanced
- Analog Outputs
- XLR balanced, RCA unbalanced
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 356 × 64 × 286 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 4.5 kg (10 lbs)
- Available Colors
- Anodized Aluminum
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions