Meitner MA3i
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The MA3 combines Ed Meitner's proven world-class sound techniques from the beloved DA2 V2 and DV2 converters, with network audio streaming functions from popular and simple to use NS1 Streamer - creating one sleek, affordable package to serve your greater enjoyment of music.
MA3i
2 Channel D/A Converter with Streamer and Volume Control
The MA3i Integrated D/A Converter, the next evolution of our multi-award-winning MA3 product. With the MA3i, Meitner Audio continues to push the boundaries of digital audio, combining the proven sound quality of our EMM Labs reference converters with cutting-edge features, all in a sleek and accessible design that enhances your music experience.
The Meitner MA3i:
- Next generation 16xDSD MDAC2™ DAC paired with the updated MDAT2™ DSP
- Latest generation VControl™ volume system from the EMM Labs DV2i
Supports DSD128/2xDSD, DXD, and MQA®
- New advanced network streamer for seamless music streaming integration
16xDSD MDAC2™ and MDAT2™ DSP:
Like our new EMM Labs flagship converters, the MA3i utilizes our next generation MDAC2™ fully discrete, single-bit, 16xDSD D-to-A converters. It also has our updated MDAT2™ DSP, delivering real-time transient detection and up-conversion of all incoming audio, resulting in stunning clarity and precision.
Latest Generation VControl™:
Our latest VControl™ system, inherited from the EMM Labs DV2i, provides unmatched transparency at any volume, ensuring no loss of resolution while offering an expansive range of volume control with absolute sonic integrity.
MFAST™, MCLK3™ & New Power Systems for USB and Network:
The MA3i incorporates our updated frequency acquisition protocol (MFAST™) and new asynchronous clock (MCLK3™), reducing jitter to industry-defying levels. The updated input and power isolation systems utilize advanced filtering and galvanic isolation, providing superior noise reduction and isolation for both USB and network connections, ensuring optimal sound quality.
Advanced Network Streaming System:
With a more powerful network streaming platform, the MA3i grants effortless access to high-resolution services like TIDAL/TIDAL Connect and QOBUZ, while still supporting popular platforms such as Spotify, Deezer, and vTuner. It offers enhanced UPnP/DLNA support for NAS playback, ROON READY/ENDPOINT functionality, along with direct USB audio file playback for a seamless, modern listening experience.
Designed and manufactured in Canada, the new updated MA3i is ready to connect to your amplifier and speakers for a direct path to audio excellence. Whether upgrading or building a new high-end system, the MA3i is the ideal choice for those seeking the next level in digital performance.
Key Features
- Next generation 16xDSD proprietary discrete dual differential D-to-A converters (MDAC2™) with the updated Meitner Digital Audio Translator signal processing technology (MDAT2™)
- Latest generation VControl™ high resolution volume control
- Latest generation MFAST™ for ultra-low jitter performance with proprietary asynchronous clocking system (MCLK3™)
- USB audio and network interfaces with custom power and hardware galvanic isolation
- Up to 24bit/192kHz & DSD support over all inputs: USB Audio, AES, COAX, TOSLINK and Network(RJ45)
- 2xDSD (via DoP), DXD (352/384kHz) over USB Audio and Network(RJ45)
- Full MQA® unfolding via USB Audio and Network(RJ45)
- Integrated network streamer with support for Roon, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, V-Tuner, and DLNA/UPnP
- IR remote and serial port for wired remote control
REVIEW & AWARDS
Meitner MA3 Integrated D/A processor - Read More
"Without wishing to drive a decent metaphor into the ground, let alone off a cliff: Pricewise, the Meitner MA3 Integrated D/A Converter may be the Rambler to EMM Labs' top-line DV2 Integrated D/A Converter, but its ride is just as Cadillac-smooth. The MA3 doesn't just take you from Point A to Point B; it makes every journey a joy. Anyone in the market for a versatile one-piece, Roon Ready, MQA-capable streaming DAC with volume control that is capable of high-resolution PCM and DSD playback will be all the richer for taking it for a spin (and not too much poorer if you buy it, at least compared to those reference DACs). It's hard to imagine the music lover who will not fall in love with its sound. " - Jason Victor Serinus
Recommended Components 2023 Edition - Read More
"The MA3 doesn’t just take you from Point A to Point B; it makes every journey a joy." - Jason Victor Serinus
Meitner MA3 DAC Reviewed - Read More
"When it comes to a lifetime legacy of excellent D-to-A conversion, few equipment designers have had the stellar career and history of innovation of Ed Meitner. His devices are very well designed, with considerable attention to build quality.
When considering the MA3, the list of available included features is very impressive. Few other DACs in this price class possess a similar list of capabilities, build quality, and overall reputation. While $10,500 may be very expensive to some—maybe to many—what is included for that price outshines many other DACs with a similar cost. Add to that the excellent sonic presentation and the Meitner MA3 DAC is a product absolutely worth closer examination. No audio device is perfect for everyone, and many would prefer the MA3 have a longer list of available features. It could, no doubt. It would also have a higher retail price. All told, and for the price, the features on the Meitner MA3 are very impressive." - Paul Wilson
Meitner MA3 DAC | REVIEW - Read More
"for those listeners desiring a DAC which will never fatigue them in the high end, the Meitner MA3 will accomplish that trick while never leaving you wondering if you’re leaving detail on the table. At the price point, Meitner MA3 is amongst the top contenders for any DAC/Streamer I can think of." - Grover Neville
Meitner Audio MA3 Integrated D/A Converter Review - Read More
"The MA3 is a great sounding DAC, capable of receiving content directly via its Ethernet interface, and driving amplifiers directly without a problem. It offers delicacy, delineated reproduction, and an organic sound that will make listeners smile for years. If you're only satisfied with the best, the EMM Labs DV2 is for you. I highly recommend everyone else consider picking up the MA3, sitting back, turning up the volume, and thinking about what to do with all that cash saved. Speaking of cash, the Meitner Audio MA3 is unequivocally CASH Listed. "
The 2021 SoundStage! Network Products of the Year—in One or Two Sentences - Read More
"The culmination of network streaming, Roon integration, local music file storage, and unflappable ergonomics supplemented by numerous proprietary technologies borrowed from the MA3’s more exotic brethren result in a product that not only redefines the benchmark in this price category, but raises the bar significantly. " - Doug Schneider
Meitner Audio MA3 Integrated Hi-Res DAC Review - Read More
"The MA3 carries my warmest possible recommendation. It makes as strong a case for digital audio as anything out there. " - Phil Gold
Meitner Audio MA3 DAC-Preamplifier - Read More
"The culmination of network streaming, Roon integration, local music file storage, and unflappable ergonomics supplemented by numerous proprietary technologies borrowed from the MA3’s more exotic brethren result in a product that not only redefines the benchmark in this price category, but raises the bar significantly. Yet again, Ed Meitner should be proud of what he and his team have created here, and the competition should be on alert. The Meitner Audio MA-3 is enthusiastically recommended! " - Aron Garrecht
Meitner Audio MA3 - Read More
"A highly impressive performer, the Meitner MA3 is one of the finest streaming DACs at or near its price. It offers a taste of the best high-end designs in a slightly more affordable, practical and flexible package. I’d have liked a slightly more opulent finish
but still it makes a great case for itself – and also the breed as a whole. Most examples are way behind this, but at least they have something to aim for! " - Nick Tate
Meitner Audio MA3 Integrated DAC Review - Read More
"The Meitner MA3 streaming DAC is an excellent product, providing you have the funds for it. For some, it will be just within reach, and to those lucky people, it offers a taste of cost-no-object high-end esoterica that most will never hear. The metric by which it is judged is accuracy, and it excels on this score. It doesn’t focus on making any single performative aspect stand out, rather it sounds consummately balanced and neutral. " - Mark Gusew
SPECIFICATIONS
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Digital inputs |
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Stereo Analog Outputs |
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Dimensions (WxDxH) | 435 x 400 x 92mm / 17.13 x 15.75 x 3.62in |
Weight | 7.43kg / 16.39lbs net (with remote control) |
Finish |
Fine bead blasted front panel available in silver or black Designed and Manufactured in Canada |