MBL C41 Network Player with Volume Control
Best high-end streamer for audiophiles seeking pristine, distortion-free digital playback.
This high-fidelity digital audio streamer is engineered for audiophiles seeking pristine sound reproduction. It features a state-of-the-art digital-to-analog converter and advanced technologies to correct intersample clipping, ensuring natural and distortion-free audio. The innovative volume control integrates seamlessly within the DAC, allowing for high-quality adjustments without adding noise. It offers versatile connectivity for various streaming services and protocols, functioning as a central control unit for digital-only hi-fi systems and eliminating the need for a separate preamplifier.
$11100.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
36
/ 639
#36 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
+195%
Above average
Who it's for
- Minimalists wanting to bypass a separate preamp for signal purity
- Luxury collectors valuing heirloom-quality German craftsmanship and design
- Audiophiles seeking reference-grade sonic transparency and expansive soundstages
Who should skip it
- System builders requiring flexible compatibility with diverse third-party components
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking high-value streaming solutions
- Users preferring the seamless experience of mainstream streaming ecosystems
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Core Volume Control eliminates preamp noise for a pristine audio signal.
Digital Precision
TruePeak technology effectively manages intersample clipping for cleaner high-resolution playback.
Streaming Versatility
Roon, UPnP, and Airplay support ensure seamless integration with modern libraries.
Format Compatibility
Handles standard high-res PCM and DSD64 files with audiophile-grade accuracy.
Connectivity Options
Robust selection of digital inputs and analog outputs fits most systems.
System Simplification
Integrated volume control removes the need for a separate dedicated preamp.
Key Specs
Supports PCM files up to 24-bit/192kHz
Supports DSD files up to DSD64
Inputs
S/PDIF, AES3, USB-B
Outputs
S/PDIF (RCA), XLR, RCA
Network protocols
Roon, UPnP/DLNA, Airplay
AES/EBU input supported
Maximum sample rate
192kHz
Power source
AC Adapter
Know before you buy
Yes. Because the C41 features MBL’s proprietary Core Volume Control, you can connect it directly to a power amplifier, effectively using the device as a high-quality digital preamp.
TruePeak technology is designed to detect and correct intersample clipping, which can occur during the digital-to-analog conversion process. This helps ensure your high-resolution files sound clean and free from the harsh distortion that sometimes accompanies digital peaks.
The C41 is Roon Ready and supports UPnP/DLNA, making it highly compatible with most high-end streaming setups. For casual listening, you can also stream directly from your smartphone using AirPlay.
The C41 supports PCM files up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD files up to DSD64, covering the vast majority of high-resolution music libraries.
Yes, the C41 is equipped with multiple digital inputs, including S/PDIF, AES3, and USB-B. This allows you to route other digital sources, such as a CD transport or computer, through the C41 to take advantage of its internal processing.
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