Meitner Audio MA3i 2 Channel D/A Converter with Streamer and Volume Control
Best high-end streaming DAC for audiophiles seeking pristine, immersive sound quality.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Meitner Audio MA3i, a sophisticated streaming D/A converter. It boasts proprietary discrete dual differential DACs and advanced DSP for pristine sound. The MA3i seamlessly integrates a network streamer, supporting high-resolution formats like DSD, DXD, and MQA. Enjoy precise volume control and ultra-low jitter thanks to its innovative technologies. With versatile connectivity options, it's the perfect centerpiece for a high-performance audio system, delivering an immersive listening experience.
$11500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 488
#7 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+163%
Above average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising, natural sound reproduction
- Minimalists wanting a streamlined, high-fidelity system
- Serious listeners investing in long-term, reliable hardware
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level equipment
- Users preferring seamless, mass-market streaming app experiences
- Casual listeners avoiding complex, high-end system matching
Performance breakdown
Digital Conversion Fidelity
Proprietary MDAC2 technology delivers industry-leading precision and sonic transparency.
Jitter Suppression
MFAST technology ensures a rock-solid clock for pristine, artifact-free signal timing.
Streaming Versatility
Broad platform support makes high-resolution network playback seamless and intuitive.
Volume Control Precision
VControl provides transparent attenuation without compromising the integrity of the signal.
Format Compatibility
Native support for DSD, DXD, and MQA covers every audiophile base.
Connectivity Options
Comprehensive input array allows for easy integration into any high-end system.
Key Specs
Supports up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD over all inputs.
Supports 2xDSD (via DoP) and DXD over USB Audio and Network.
Full MQA® unfolding via USB Audio and Network.
Integrated network streamer with Roon, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, V-Tuner, and DLNA/UPnP support.
Proprietary discrete dual differential D-to-A converters (MDAC2™).
Meitner Digital Audio Translator signal processing technology (MDAT2™).
Ultra-low jitter performance with proprietary asynchronous clocking system (MCLK3™).
Input Interface Types
Optical (Toslink), Coaxial, USB-A, XLR.
Features
- Next-gen 16xDSD DAC for superior conversion.
- Advanced DSP for refined audio processing.
- Precise VControl™ volume system.
- MFAST™ technology for ultra-low jitter.
- Integrated network streamer for effortless playback.
- Supports DSD, DXD, and MQA formats.
- Clean signal integrity with custom isolation.
- Versatile connectivity options.
What customers say
The Meitner Audio MA3i is widely regarded as a benchmark for high-end digital audio, praised overwhelmingly for its exceptional sonic transparency and musicality. Users consistently note its ability to deliver a natural, detailed soundstage that remains engaging rather than analytical. This performance stems from Meitner's advanced DAC technology. The integrated streamer and precise volume control establish the MA3i as a versatile digital hub, often simplifying high-fidelity systems. While the investment is significant, the consensus is that its performance rivals or surpasses much more expensive separate components. Serious audiophiles consider this unit a highly desirable choice for achieving reference-level sound quality within one elegant chassis.
Know before you buy
You can connect the MA3i directly to your power amplifier. It features the proprietary VControl™ volume system, which allows for precise, transparent volume adjustment without compromising signal integrity.
The MA3i supports a wide range of popular services, including Roon, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and V-Tuner, as well as DLNA/UPnP for local library playback.
The MA3i provides full MQA unfolding via its USB and network inputs. It also supports DSD and DXD formats, utilizing the proprietary MDAC2™ and MDAT2™ technologies to ensure high-fidelity conversion and signal processing.
The MA3i utilizes Meitner's proprietary MFAST™ technology and an asynchronous clocking system (MCLK3™). These work together to effectively eliminate jitter, ensuring a clean, stable signal regardless of the input source.
Yes, the MA3i includes versatile connectivity, featuring optical (Toslink) and coaxial inputs. These allow you to connect external digital sources like CD transports while still benefiting from the unit's advanced DAC and processing capabilities.
The VControl™ system is designed to maintain signal integrity throughout the volume range. Unlike standard digital volume controls that can degrade resolution at lower levels, VControl™ ensures the audio remains transparent and detailed at any setting.
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