Burson Audio
Burson Audio Timekeeper 3i Reference Integrated Amp & DAC
Best all-in-one solution for audiophiles seeking versatile, high-fidelity desktop sound.
The Burson Audio Timekeeper 3i is an all-in-one integrated amplifier and DAC designed to deliver exceptional performance and versatility. It features a dual-mono SABRE32/ESS9038Q2M DAC for each channel, a customized XMOS USB chip supporting DSD512 and 38bit/786khz audio, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD for high-quality wireless streaming. This unit also includes a Class-A headphone amplifier with 2Wpc and a Class-AB speaker amplifier delivering 100W per channel. Its advanced Max Current Power Supply ensures clean and instant power delivery. The aluminum enclosure acts as a unified heat-sink, keeping components cool.
$1952.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
934
/ 1687
#934 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-76%
Below average
Input impedance
40
/ KOhms
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound and emotional musical engagement
- Minimalists wanting a clean, clutter-free high-end audio system
- Versatile listeners switching between speakers and premium headphones
Who should skip it
- Users with limited shelf space or poor ventilation options
- Listeners requiring built-in network streaming for digital convenience
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level audio equipment
Performance breakdown
Digital Precision
Dual-mono ESS9038Q2M chips deliver exceptional clarity and high-resolution format support.
Headphone Drive Capability
Class-A amplification provides ample power for demanding audiophile-grade headphones.
Speaker Power Delivery
100W per channel offers robust, clean drive for most bookshelf speakers.
Sound Customization
User-replaceable op-amps allow for precise tailoring of the sonic signature.
Connectivity Versatility
Seamlessly bridges modern wireless streaming with traditional high-fidelity wired inputs.
Thermal Efficiency
The unified aluminum chassis acts as a highly effective passive heatsink.
Key Specs
Input impedance
40 KOhms
Frequency response
± 1 dB 0 – 58Khz
THD
<0.0015%
Output impedance (Headphone Amp)
0.5 Ohm
Output impedance (Pre Out / DAC Out)
1 Ohm / 25 Ohm
Inputs
1 x RCA line-level input, USB, Optical Toslink, BlueTooth 5.0, Microphone
Outputs
1 x RCA Pre Amp, 1 X Line Level DAC Out, 2 x 6.3mm Headphone Jack
Headphone Power (16 - 32 Ohm)
2W
Features
- All-in-one integrated amplifier and DAC
- Dual-mono SABRE32/ESS9038Q2M DAC chips
- Customized XMOS USB for high-resolution audio playback
- Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD for wireless streaming
- Powerful Class-A headphone amplifier
- 100W Class-AB speaker amplifier
- Proprietary Max Current Power Supply for clean power
- User-replaceable op-amps for sound tuning
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Burson Audio Timekeeper 3i for its exceptional sound quality, often described as dynamic, detailed, and engaging. Many highlight its ability to bring music to life with remarkable clarity and a wide soundstage. Users appreciate the powerful amplification and the integrated DAC's precise rendering, making it a compelling all in one solution. The product is frequently seen as offering significant performance for its price point, delivering a premium audio experience that rivals more expensive separates. Its robust build and elegant design also contribute to a highly satisfying ownership experience.
Know before you buy
Yes, it is designed as an all-in-one solution. It features a 100W Class-AB amplifier for speakers and a dedicated Class-A headphone amplifier, allowing you to switch between your preferred listening setup easily.
Yes, Burson designed this unit with user-replaceable op-amps. This allows you to swap components to fine-tune the sound signature to better match your personal preferences or specific audio equipment.
The customized XMOS USB chip supports high-resolution audio up to 32bit/786kHz for PCM files and native DSD playback up to DSD512, ensuring compatibility with virtually all high-fidelity digital formats.
The entire enclosure is crafted from aluminum and acts as a unified heat-sink. This passive cooling design effectively dissipates heat from the internal components without the need for noisy cooling fans.
Yes, the unit includes Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD support. This allows for high-quality wireless streaming from your smartphone, tablet, or computer with minimal loss in audio fidelity.
Absolutely. It includes dedicated RCA pre-amp and line-level DAC outputs, making it highly versatile if you decide to integrate it into a larger system with external power amplifiers or active speakers later on.
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$1952