M8

About the M8

The S.M.S.L M8 is a digital-to-analog converter designed for Hi-Fi systems, especially desktop setups. It uses the ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 Reference DAC chip, which supports 32-bit, 2-channel audio conversion with ESS's patented 32-bit Hyperstream DAC architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator. The M8 supports PCM audio up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD up to 5.6MHz (DSD64 and DSD128). It features an advanced asynchronous USB receiver based on the XMOS U8 500mips x-core chip, ensuring accurate USB audio decoding with low jitter, aided by dual low phase noise oscillators for different sampling rates. The DAC includes optical and coaxial digital inputs supporting up to 24bit/192kHz PCM. It offers seven selectable digital filters (3 for PCM and 4 for DSD) to tailor sound characteristics. The device has a low noise 2-pole dual differential active filter to reduce out-of-band noise and an ultra-low noise power supply system with multiple LDO regulators. The M8 is housed in a solid CNC-machined aluminum chassis with an OLED display showing input type and sampling frequency. It provides fixed-level analog output via RCA connectors. The unit supports Windows, Mac OS, iOS (with adapter), and most Android devices. Optional linear power supplies are available to further improve sound quality. The M8 is compact, portable, and designed for audiophile-grade desktop use.