Bricasti M5 Network Player
Best network streamer for audiophiles seeking pristine, high-fidelity digital playback.
The Bricasti M5 Network Player is a high-fidelity device designed to seamlessly integrate digital music libraries with your audio system. It functions as a powerful network interface and media renderer, connecting to your music server or NAS via LAN for pristine, lossless audio streams. The M5 supports popular network protocols like DLNA and Roon Ready, delivering audio to your DAC via SPDIF, AES, or USB outputs. It accommodates PCM audio up to 192kHz and DSD formats (DSD64, DSD128) over USB, offering flexible connectivity for audiophiles seeking the utmost fidelity. Its robust aluminum chassis and linear power supply ensure a pure, noise-free listening experience.
$2500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
44
/ 490
#44 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
-34%
Below average
Input Options
Ethernet, Wi-Fi (with regionally approved adapter – not included)
/ Ethernet, Wi-Fi (with regionally approved adapter – not included)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles prioritizing pristine, high-fidelity digital signal reproduction
- Collectors seeking durable, premium-grade hardware for their audio rack
- System builders looking for a dedicated, high-performance network bridge
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking an entry-level streaming solution
- Users wanting an all-in-one streamer with an integrated DAC
- Consumers requiring extensive connectivity options and additional smart features
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Linear power supply ensures a remarkably clean and noise-free digital signal.
Build Quality
Solid milled aluminum chassis provides exceptional durability and vibration resistance.
Format Versatility
Extensive file support handles virtually any high-resolution library with ease.
Connectivity Options
Versatile digital outputs integrate seamlessly into any high-end audio chain.
Network Reliability
Roon Ready and DLNA support guarantee stable, high-fidelity streaming performance.
System Integration
Compact footprint allows for flexible placement away from sensitive analog components.
Key Specs
Input Options
Ethernet, Wi-Fi (with regionally approved adapter – not included)
Digital Output Options
AES, standard SPDIF, RCA, optional 75 ohm BNC up to 192k PCM & DSD 64; DSD 128 over USB
Supported File Formats
Over 100 types, including AAC, AIFF, ALAC, ATRAC, Au, AVI, Dolby Digital, DSDiff, DSF, DV, DVD, FLAC, FLV, IFF, M1V, M2T, M2V, M4A, M4V, Matroska, MJPEG, Monkey's Audio, MP1, MP2, MP3, MP4, MPC, Music Tracker, Ogg, OpenMG, Opus, Quicktime, RealMedia/Audio, Sidplayer, Speex, SWF, video game files, W64, WAV, WMV/WMA, Xvid, 3GPP/3GPP2, etc.
Trigger In
250mA
Trigger Out
12V
Mains Voltage
100, 120, 220, 230, 240 VAC, 50 Hz - 60 Hz
Finish
Anodized Aluminum
Dimensions
8.5" L × 2" H × 8" W
Features
- Seamlessly integrates digital music libraries with high-fidelity audio systems.
- Acts as a powerful network interface and media renderer for lossless audio streams.
- Supports DLNA and Roon Ready for flexible network integration.
- Offers versatile digital outputs including SPDIF, AES, and USB.
- Accommodates high-resolution audio formats like PCM up to 192kHz and DSD up to DSD128.
- Features a robust chassis milled from solid aluminum for durability and premium aesthetics.
- Utilizes a linear power supply for exceptionally low-noise performance.
- Allows for cleaner listening environments by placing servers away from the audio system.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Bricasti M5 Network Player for its exceptional audio fidelity and robust build quality. Users frequently highlight its ability to deliver a transparent and highly detailed sound, significantly enhancing their listening experience. The device is also appreciated for its reliable performance and straightforward integration into existing high end audio systems, making it a valued component for serious audiophiles seeking uncompromising sonic purity and dependable operation.
Know before you buy
No, the M5 is a dedicated network player and renderer. It is designed to stream audio from your network to an external DAC via its AES, SPDIF, or USB outputs.
Yes, the M5 is Roon Ready. Once connected to your network, it will appear as an available output device within the Roon interface, allowing for seamless integration with your existing Roon library.
The M5 supports PCM audio up to 192kHz. It also supports DSD64 and DSD128 formats when using the USB output.
The primary connection method is via the built-in Ethernet port, which ensures the most stable and high-fidelity data transfer. While the unit can support Wi-Fi, it requires a regionally approved adapter that is not included with the device.
The M5 acts as a dedicated bridge that isolates your audio system from the electrical noise and processing interference typically found in computers or NAS drives. Its linear power supply and robust aluminum chassis are specifically engineered to provide a cleaner, more stable signal to your DAC.
Yes, the M5 supports multi-room audio functionality, making it a flexible choice if you are looking to integrate high-fidelity streaming across different zones in your home.
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