This is a Bricasti M3 DAC including the optional headphone amp (balanced and single-ended) and streamer (ethernet) options. It is the version with the latest MDx processor. Purchased new from the Australian distributor (Studio Connections) in September 2021.
Excellent condition with all original packaging and invoice provided. Current RRP is $11,495 for the DAC alone, without headphone amp or streamer (which at the time of purchase were an additional $1,740 and presumably more now). Note this does not come with the remote (which can be purchased separately).
This is one of the best DACs I have owned with a neutral, detailed but musical sound, and excellent soundstage and separation. The headphone amp is powerful and the streamer is Roon ready with no dropouts or other issues experienced. I have also used it as a preamp with active speakers. The build quality is also the best I’ve experienced with any audio equipment. Overall, an excellent all-in-one device.
For more technical details, see https://www.bricasti.com/en/consumer/m3.php
For some helpful reviews, which I agree with, see https://hifiplus.com/articles/bricasti-design-m3-dac/, http://v2.stereotimes.com/post/bricasti-design-m3-dac-by-terry-london/, https://www.hifinews.com/content/bricasti-m3-network-attached-dac.
Happy to provide any further info.
Local pickup preferred due to the size and value, but happy to arrange shipping at buyer's cost. Any Paypal fees are also at the buyer's expense.
The item being advertised is sold "as is", and no warranty should be assumed unless otherwise indicated and agreed between the Buyer and the Seller. Photos representing the item being advertised form part of the description unless otherwise specified.
### Sound Quality
Users praise its transparent, dynamic, and realistic sound with excellent imaging, detail retrieval, and three-dimensionality, often comparing it favorably to far more expensive DACs like PS Audio flagships or $30k+ units. It excels in revealing subtle details in complex recordings, such as choral music where lesser DACs fail to maintain tuning, and delivers vibrant, lifelike playback (e.g., percussion "thud" and polyrhythmic grooves in Buena Vista Social Club tracks). Reviewers highlight pure DSD and PCM conversion via proprietary chips (ADI1955 for PCM, custom for DSD), low jitter via DDS clocking, and a neutral, resolute signature akin to top studio gear—smooth yet revealing, with purity like a valve amp but solid-state precise. Headphone users note a pleasing touch of smoothness and warmth. Comparisons to Chord TT2 and Benchmark DAC3 position it as "end-game" or "killer," outperforming in energy, aliveness, and space.
### Build Quality
Robust and pro-grade construction stands out, with dual independent linear power supplies (digital/analog), fully balanced discrete channels, and true differential analog paths including volume control. It supports diverse inputs (AES/EBU, coax, optical, USB, network streaming with Roon readiness) and headphone amp in the M3H version via ¼-inch/XLR jacks. The M3H adds balanced headphone drive without altering DAC operation. Users appreciate its beefy design over "Chi-Fi" alternatives, though it's seen as functional rather than luxurious.
### Reliability
Direct mentions are limited, but a 2-year non-transferable warranty is standard, and long-term user loans (e.g., "extended loan") plus purchases indicate confidence. No widespread complaints of failures; focus remains on performance stability.
### Strengths
- Versatility: Headphone amp, preamp bypass, all inputs, PCM/DSD native support.
- Value: High-end performance at ~$6,000, "infinitely capable" even with poor sources.
- Studio-like accuracy: Jitter reduction, balanced outputs, silent PCM-DSD transitions.
### Weaknesses
- Plain aesthetics: Lacks flashy styling, more "working tool" than luxury statement.
- Power supply desires: Some users crave upgrades like the M1's triple supplies for further gains.
- Revealing nature: Like Benchmark, may highlight flaws in recordings/systems (though not a common complaint).
### Overall Reputation
The M3H enjoys a stellar reputation in audiophile communities as a "sleeper" or "killer" DAC—praised for pro-level transparency, build, and headphone integration, with users buying after demos and calling it a benchmark for realism and value. It's recommended over pricier rivals for those seeking uncolored, source-true sound.
Prices vary significantly by condition, with new units commanding premiums due to full warranties and original packaging, while used ones depend on usage hours, accessories, and cosmetic state. The M3H variant specifically adds a headphone amplifier (around USD 500–1,000 extra), pushing new pricing toward the higher end compared to the base M3.
Key factors affecting value include:
- Model upgrades: Base M3 at USD 6,000–6,500; M3H or options like network cards add USD 500–2,500.
- Condition and market: New listings hit USD 8,089 (about AUD 12,100); older discussions note USD 4,995 launch but current retail is higher.
- Location and demand: Australian retailers like HeyNow Hi-Fi align with global pricing; import duties or shipping may add 5–10% locally.
- Accessories: Inclusion of remotes, power cables, or streaming options (e.g., M5 at USD 2,500) boosts resale value.
These estimates use conservative USD-to-AUD conversion and prioritize recent 2026 listings over older reviews. Actual sales may fluctuate with supply and buyer negotiations.
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