Burson Audio
Burson Audio Composer 3X Performance
Best high-fidelity DAC for audiophiles seeking transparent, customizable sound reproduction.
The Burson Audio Composer 3X Performance is a high-fidelity DAC designed for truthful audio reproduction. It bypasses digital signal processing for oversampling or reprocessing, aiming to recreate the original audio art with pinpoint accuracy from MP3s to native DSD512. Featuring a SABRE32/ESS9038Q2M DAC chip, a minimal signal path, and a robust power supply with four proprietary Max Current Power Supplies (MCPS), it ensures clean power and transparency. The device boasts superior digital connections, including a Qualcomm/CSR8675 Bluetooth receiver and an XMOS USB receiver. It also functions as a refined preamp with low output impedance and two gain levels, compatible with various amplifiers and active speakers. The Composer 3X Performance encourages opamp rolling with gold-plated DIP8 sockets, allowing users to customize their listening experience.
$915.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 488
#99 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-79%
Below average
DAC Chip
3290382
/ SABRE/ESSQM
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking deep clarity and hidden musical textures
- Headphone collectors needing power for high-impedance gear
- Minimalists wanting an all-in-one high-fidelity desktop hub
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking an entry-level upgrade
- Users with limited ventilation or heat-sensitive workspaces
- Travelers or those requiring a portable audio solution
Performance breakdown
Signal Transparency
Minimalist signal path ensures audio reaches your ears without unwanted coloration.
Power Delivery
Proprietary MCPS technology provides exceptionally clean, stable power for high-fidelity output.
Format Versatility
Handles everything from standard MP3s to high-resolution native DSD512 files effortlessly.
Customization Potential
Gold-plated DIP8 sockets make opamp rolling accessible for fine-tuning your sound.
Connectivity Range
Robust XMOS and Bluetooth inputs offer reliable performance across all modern devices.
Preamp Utility
Low output impedance and dual gain levels integrate seamlessly into any system.
Key Specs
DAC Chip
SABRE32/ESS9038Q2M
Bluetooth Receiver
Qualcomm/CSR8675 (24bit/96khz / AptxHD)
USB Receiver
XMOS (PCM 768Khz / DSD 512)
Signal Path
Fully balanced, short signal path
Opamps
Burson V6 Vivid discrete opamps
Power Supply
4x Burson proprietary Max Current Power Supplies (MCPS)
Preamp Functionality
Low output impedance, two gain levels
Opamp Rolling
Gold plated DIP8 sockets
Features
- Truthful audio reproduction without DSP reprocessing
- High-fidelity playback from MP3 to native DSD512
- Minimal signal path for accuracy
- Powerful and clean power supply for transparency
- Seamless connectivity with PC, Mac, iOS, and Android devices
- Versatile preamp with low output impedance and adjustable gain
- User-customizable listening experience through opamp rolling
- Robust build quality with premium components
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Burson Audio Conductor 3X Performance for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as transparent, dynamic, and highly resolving. Many highlight its ability to elevate their listening experience, bringing out details and depth in music. The robust build and sleek design also receive frequent commendation, reinforcing a sense of premium craftsmanship. While an investment, users generally feel its audio performance justifies the cost, positioning it as a top tier component for serious audiophiles.
Know before you buy
No, the Composer 3X Performance is a dedicated DAC and preamp. It is designed to connect to external power amplifiers or active speakers rather than driving headphones directly.
Yes, the unit features gold-plated DIP8 sockets that allow for opamp rolling. This enables you to swap out the included Burson V6 Vivid opamps for other compatible discrete opamps to fine-tune the audio character to your preference.
The Composer 3X Performance is designed for a pure signal path, meaning it bypasses digital signal processing, oversampling, and reprocessing. Its goal is to deliver the audio as close to the original recording as possible.
Yes, it supports seamless connectivity with iOS and Android devices, as well as PC and Mac. You can connect via the high-quality XMOS USB receiver or use the integrated Qualcomm/CSR8675 Bluetooth receiver for wireless playback.
The four proprietary MCPS units provide a clean, stable, and high-current power source. This robust power delivery is essential for maintaining transparency and minimizing noise, which directly contributes to the DAC's high-fidelity performance.
Absolutely. The device functions as a refined preamp with low output impedance and two selectable gain levels, making it highly compatible with a wide range of power amplifiers and active speaker systems.
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$915