Meitner MA3i DAC Streamer
Best high-end streamer for audiophiles seeking pure, reference-grade digital sound.
The Meitner MA3i Integrated D/A Converter and Streamer represents the next evolution of the acclaimed MA3, meticulously designed in Canada for unparalleled digital audio performance. It seamlessly blends the renowned sonic signature of EMM Labs converters with advanced features in an elegant, user-friendly package. At its core, the MA3i features the next-generation 16xDSD MDAC2™ DAC and MDAT2™ DSP for real-time audio processing, complemented by the VControl™ volume system and MFAST™/MCLK3™ for exceptional jitter reduction. Integrated network streaming and galvanic isolation ensure a pure, direct connection to your amplifier and speakers for an elevated listening experience.
$11500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 488
#7 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+163%
Above average
DAC Type
162
/ Next generation xDSD proprietary discrete dual differential (MDAC™)
Who it's for
- Collectors prioritizing native DSD and high-resolution format fidelity
- Audiophiles seeking natural, distortion-free musical reproduction
- Minimalists wanting a high-end, all-in-one digital system
Who should skip it
- Vinyl enthusiasts requiring analog inputs for turntable integration
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking high-end performance on a modest investment
- Users preferring the seamless, polished experience of established software ecosystems
Performance breakdown
Digital Conversion Fidelity
Proprietary MDAC2 technology delivers industry-leading transparency and musical depth.
Jitter Suppression
MFAST and MCLK3 systems virtually eliminate timing errors for pristine signal integrity.
Streaming Versatility
Roon Ready and native service support provide a seamless high-resolution listening experience.
Volume Control Precision
VControl maintains perfect channel balance without compromising the original audio signal.
Noise Isolation
Galvanic isolation effectively shields the delicate analog stage from digital interference.
Format Compatibility
Comprehensive support for DSD128, DXD, and MQA covers all high-end requirements.
Key Specs
DAC Type
Next generation 16xDSD proprietary discrete dual differential (MDAC2™)
Max Sample Rate
Up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD support over all inputs
Supported Formats
DSD128/2xDSD, DXD (up to 384kHz), and MQA®
Connectivity
USB Audio, AES, COAX, TOSLINK, and Network (RJ45)
Network Protocols
Roon Ready/Endpoint, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz
Jitter Reduction
Utilizes MFAST™ and proprietary asynchronous MCLK3™ clocking
Power Supply
Power factor-corrected power supply
Input Support
Up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD support over all inputs
Features
- Next-gen 16xDSD MDAC2™ DAC technology
- Advanced MDAT2™ DSP for real-time audio processing
- High-resolution VControl™ volume control
- Ultra-low jitter with MFAST™ and MCLK3™
- Integrated network streamer with Roon Ready support
- Galvanic isolation for superior noise reduction
- Supports DSD128, DXD, and full MQA unfolding
- Seamless integration with major streaming services
What customers say
The Meitner MA3i DAC Streamer earns high praise, establishing itself as a reference component. Owners consistently celebrate its sonic performance, noting the sound is exceptionally transparent, natural, and analog like. This fidelity allows for retrieving fine micro details without digital harshness, a testament to its advanced technology. The integrated streamer offers a convenient, high-resolution single box solution. Build quality is universally lauded, reflecting its premium status with robust construction and sophisticated design. While the investment is significant, users consider the MA3i an endgame upgrade that delivers world-class musicality, setting a high benchmark for digital conversion.
Know before you buy
You can connect the MA3i directly to your power amplifier. It features the proprietary VControl™ volume system, which provides high-resolution digital volume control without compromising the signal integrity of your audio.
The MA3i is Roon Ready and supports TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect. It also integrates seamlessly with Qobuz, allowing you to stream high-resolution audio directly through your network.
The unit employs two proprietary technologies: MFAST™ for high-speed asynchronous jitter removal and MCLK3™ for ultra-low jitter clocking. Together, these systems ensure the digital signal remains precise and free from timing errors before conversion.
Yes, the MA3i supports full MQA unfolding. This allows you to extract the maximum resolution from MQA-encoded files, ensuring you hear the recording as intended by the artist.
The MDAC2™ is a proprietary discrete dual differential DAC that handles the conversion process, while the MDAT2™ DSP performs real-time audio processing. This combination is designed to preserve the natural sonic signature of your music while providing exceptional detail and dynamic range.
Yes, the MA3i utilizes galvanic isolation across its inputs. This design effectively prevents electrical noise from your network or digital sources from entering the sensitive analog signal path, resulting in a cleaner, quieter background.
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$11500