Questyle CMA Eighteen Master
Best desktop amplifier for audiophiles seeking uncompromising sound clarity and power.
Experience the pinnacle of audio engineering with the Questyle CMA Eighteen Master DAC/Amplifier. This desktop powerhouse leverages Questyle's proprietary Current Mode Amplification technology for unparalleled sonic accuracy. It supports high-resolution audio up to DSD512 and features an upgraded Bluetooth module with LDAC and aptX HD. The internal PCB is crafted from Rogers material for superior thermal management and sound performance. With independent power supplies for digital and analog sections, it ensures a pristine signal path, delivering exceptional clarity and power for your headphones and as a versatile pre-amplifier.
$2699.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 807
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+93%
Above average
USB Input
768512316
/ Native support up to PCM/DSD via XMOS X
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking pure, transparent, and highly accurate sound reproduction
- Owners of demanding high-impedance or planar magnetic headphones
- Critical listeners requiring reference-grade resolution and precise sound staging
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for high-value audio equipment
- Users wanting an all-in-one streaming and amplification solution
- Listeners who prefer a warm, colored, or euphonic sound signature
Performance breakdown
Sonic Accuracy
Proprietary current mode amplification delivers industry-leading signal transparency and detail.
Driving Power
Effortlessly handles demanding planar magnetic and high-impedance headphones with ease.
Build Integrity
Rogers PCB integration ensures professional-grade thermal management and long-term reliability.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive input options bridge the gap between digital streaming and analog sources.
Signal Purity
Independent power supplies effectively isolate noise for a pristine listening experience.
Wireless Fidelity
High-resolution Bluetooth support maintains impressive clarity for convenient wireless playback.
Key Specs
USB Input
Native support up to PCM768/DSD512 via XMOS X316
Bluetooth Input
Supports aptX HD and LDAC up to 96kHz/24 bits
Optical/Coaxial Input
Supports up to 192kHz/24 bits
Headphone Output Power (Balanced)
2 W @ 32 Ω
Headphone Output Power (6.35mm)
1.5 W @ 32 Ω
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N)
<0.0003%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
120 dB (Balanced)
Amplifier Technology
Solid State
Features
- Reference-grade DAC/Amplifier performance
- High-resolution audio support up to DSD512
- Advanced Bluetooth with LDAC
- Proprietary Current Mode Amplification
- Rogers PCB for enhanced sound and cooling
- Fully balanced headphone amplifier
- Independent power supplies for signal purity
- Versatile pre-amplifier functionality
What customers say
The Questyle CMA Eighteen Master earns widespread praise for its pristine sonic performance, driven by proprietary Current Mode Amplification technology. Users consistently report exceptionally transparent, detailed sound with superb resolution and no listener fatigue, highlighting its impressive dynamic range across all music genres. Beyond audio fidelity, the build quality is universally acclaimed, reflecting meticulous engineering in a robust, elegant chassis. This integrated unit is also noted for its ample power, driving demanding headphones with ease. While positioned as a premium investment, serious audiophiles agree the performance justifies the cost, delivering sound quality often found only in separate high-end components. It is viewed as a benchmark for reference grade audio in a single device.
Know before you buy
Unlike traditional voltage-mode amplifiers, Questyle's Current Mode technology operates in the current domain. This approach significantly reduces transient intermodulation distortion and provides a much faster response time, resulting in a more transparent and accurate sound.
Yes, it features both XLR and RCA outputs, allowing you to connect it directly to powered speakers or a separate power amplifier. You can control the volume through the unit, making it a versatile hub for a high-end desktop audio system.
Yes, the unit includes an upgraded Bluetooth module that supports LDAC and aptX HD codecs. This allows for high-quality wireless streaming at up to 96kHz/24 bits from compatible devices.
The CMA Eighteen Master is quite powerful, delivering 2W at 32Ω through its balanced output. It is designed to handle a wide range of demanding headphones with ease, though performance with extremely high-impedance models will depend on your specific headphone's sensitivity.
Rogers PCB material is typically reserved for high-frequency aerospace and communication applications due to its superior dielectric properties. In this amplifier, it helps minimize signal loss and improves thermal management, which contributes to the unit's low noise floor and consistent sound performance.
For Windows users, you will need to install the appropriate Questyle USB driver to achieve full DSD512 and PCM768 support. Mac users can typically use the device as a plug-and-play unit due to native USB audio support.
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