Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Reference Series 3
Best high-end converter for audiophiles seeking ultimate sonic realism and precision.
The Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P redefines digital-to-analog conversion with its proprietary Perfected Technology, achieving unparalleled time-domain coherence for profound musical realism. This advanced DAC delivers unprecedented imaging precision, timbral purity, and resolution, creating an immediate and present audio experience. It supports a wide range of input sampling rates up to 192kHz and 24-bit word length, featuring MQA rendering and multiple digital filter options. With both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA stereo outputs, it offers exceptional clarity and accuracy for discerning listeners. The Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Series 3 is a high-performance digital-to-analog converter that brings advanced technology from the renowned Alpha DAC Reference Series 3. It offers MQA rendering capabilities up to 384kHz and supports PCM audio from 32kHz to 192kHz. Featuring ultra-low phase noise conversion clocking and multiple digital filter options, this DAC allows its outputs to connect directly to power amplifiers. The firmware is upgradeable through signal inputs, ensuring it stays current with the latest advancements. It includes a metal IR remote control for convenient operation. The Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Series 3 is a premium digital-to-analog converter designed for discerning audiophiles. It features advanced jitter reduction technology and supports PCM formats, ensuring exceptional audio fidelity. With multiple digital inputs including USB, AES/EBU, Coaxial, and Optical, it offers versatile connectivity. The Alpha DAC Series 3 provides high-quality analog outputs via XLR and RCA, delivering a pure and accurate soundstage. Its robust aluminum enclosure and focus on sonic precision make it a standout component for high-end audio systems.
$11995.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
83
/ 492
#83 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+174%
Above average
Input sampling rate
32192
/ kHz to kHz
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a lifelike, concert-hall listening experience
- Purists demanding absolute signal clarity and timing precision
- Streaming enthusiasts wanting the highest resolution from MQA files
Who should skip it
- Computer users wanting a simple, direct plug-and-play USB connection
- Design-conscious buyers preferring modern, high-tech aesthetic interfaces
- Budget-minded listeners looking for entry-level or mid-range value
Performance breakdown
Time-Domain Coherence
Proprietary technology delivers exceptional imaging precision and realistic soundstage depth.
Jitter Suppression
Advanced clocking architecture ensures pristine signal integrity for digital sources.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive input suite handles everything from legacy AES to modern USB.
Build Integrity
Robust aluminum chassis provides superior shielding and long-term component stability.
Format Flexibility
Native MQA rendering and HDCD support cater to high-resolution audio enthusiasts.
Output Precision
High-voltage balanced outputs allow for direct, transparent connection to power amplifiers.
Key Specs
Input sampling rate
32kHz to 192kHz
Input word length
24-bit
Digital Inputs
AES - XLR, 110™; SPDIF1 - BNC, 75™; SPDIF2 - BNC, 75™; TOSLINK – Toslink optical connector; USB; Coaxial
Balanced analog output level
+18dBu (6.15Vrms) maximum
Unbalanced analog output level
3.25Vrms maximum
Digital volume & balance control
0.1dB/step with .05dB/step L/R gain trim, 60dB range
Enclosure dimensions
3.5”H X 17.5” W x 12.5”D (424.2 x 58.4 x 269.2 mm)
Weight
30 lbs. (13.6078 kg)
Features
- Advanced jitter reduction for pristine audio clarity
- Versatile digital input options for various sources
- High-quality analog outputs for superior sound reproduction
- Proprietary Perfected Technology for superior time-domain coherence
- Unprecedented imaging precision, timbral purity, and resolution
- Achieves profound musical realism and an immediate, present sound
- New proprietary RF waveguide isolation technology
- HDCD decoding
- MQA Rendering
- Multiple digital filter options
What customers say
The Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC Reference Series 3 earns high praise for its exceptional build quality and sonic transparency. Owners consistently highlight the natural and lifelike presentation of music which sets a high standard for digital audio. The design reflects a commitment to precision and longevity. While the investment is significant users feel the performance justifies the cost for serious listeners. This product is celebrated for its ability to reveal subtle details without sounding clinical. It remains a top choice for those seeking a refined and reliable listening experience.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Alpha DAC Series 3 features high-quality analog outputs and precise digital volume control, allowing you to connect it directly to a power amplifier without needing a separate preamplifier.
Yes, the unit is equipped with both MQA rendering capabilities up to 384kHz and HDCD decoding, ensuring compatibility with high-resolution and legacy high-fidelity formats.
The DAC is highly versatile, offering a comprehensive suite of inputs including USB, AES/EBU (XLR), two BNC-based SPDIF connections, coaxial, and optical (Toslink).
This technology focuses on time-domain coherence, which helps the DAC achieve superior imaging precision and timbral purity, resulting in a more realistic and present soundstage.
Yes, the firmware can be updated via the digital signal inputs, ensuring your device remains compatible with future technological advancements and performance improvements.
The volume control operates in 0.1dB steps, with an additional 0.05dB per step for left/right gain trimming, providing a total range of 60dB for fine-tuned adjustments.
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