Author: Jamie Madden

A bold, and better-sounding, new world

The release of Roon 2.0 has revolutionized our connection to the music we love, thanks to the Roon ARC app. Roon ARC hands us the keys to a custom-built streaming service – powered by the very same music library and rich trove of Roon features we enjoy at home. Now that ARC is our mutual music obsession, we’re continuing our exploration of specialized portable DACs perfect for getting the most out of our on-the-go music listening.

Some folks may wonder why even bother with it – it’s just a mobile device. And that’s a reasonable question. Rather than fall back on a reflexive music obsessive’s “because music, dude.” answer, let’s consider why. One reason is that Roon ARC uses the same superior audio engine as your Roon setup at home. Another is that we frequently don’t realize what we’re missing until we hear the difference that a good DAC can make. Returning to mediocre sound afterward presents a real challenge – and potential suffering. We don’t want you to go through all that, which is reason enough.

Fortunately, audio manufacturers have stepped up to make the task more effortless than ever before. They’re locked in a feverish race to churn out value and feature-packed, small-form-factor DACs with impressive sound quality and plummeting prices. It’s a surprisingly competitive market that music lovers benefit from. Roon is here to help you choose with a growing selection of portable converters featuring flagship DAC chipsets and inclusive format support in every price range – and in increasingly undersized packages.

The iFi Audio products in this review are examples of that. The iFi GO blu is so tiny it could be a HiFi system for a fairy house – the GO bar resembles a lighter. They’re small small, but both earned a “though she be but little, she is fierce” rating on our scale of sonic subjectivity. Let’s take a closer look at what they have to offer. 

iFi Audio, specialists in affordable feature-packed on-the-go DACs

The GO blu, GO bar, and xDSD Gryphon aren’t iFi’s first foray into portable or desktop DACs. The retired micro and nano series devices were Roon Tested customer favorites and offered considerable value to feature benefits. Their new lineup retains many of the previous models’ connectivity and file format strengths while adding performance, sound, and circuitry implementation improvements in all-new, incredibly downsized enclosures. 

All three models feature balanced and single-ended headphone outs, impressive amp output power, multiple digital filters, and sound processing modes, plus bespoke device-tailored circuitry implementation to ensure winning performance before their individual character traits are dialed in. 

GO blu (seen above through a magnifying glass) is iFi’s most portable DAC and headphone amplifier. It supports every current Bluetooth codec plus high-resolution streaming up to 24-bit/96 PCM over USB-C. It’s sparse on LEDs and controls to maintain its size, and each button is multi-function. It also features a built-in microphone for calls and voice commands.

GO bar is a remarkably feature-packed DAC that offers uncompromised file support for up to 32- bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256, DXD, and full MQA playback. It packs a whopping 7.5 volts of balanced output power that outpunches every other DAC in this weight class. iEMatch allows the GO bar to push sensitive in-ears without associated hiss or noise. 

The 2022-2023 EISA Best Portable DAC award-winning xDSD Gryphon provides unmatched connectivity with dual USB-C, Bluetooth, mini S/PDIF, and analog inputs with support for up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM; DSD512, DXD768, full MQA decoding and every Bluetooth codec in their familiar flask-shaped design. The OLED screen displays input, format, bitrate, and filter mode. iFi’s full suite of bespoke circuitry integration is tucked inside. Navigation is intuitive, and Gryphon is pleasantly easy to use. Full specs for each iFi model are listed further below.  

The iFi portable DACs paired exceptionally well with my headphone choices, powering them easily. We’ll cover general sound characteristics first and expand below with detailed listening notes. 

The devices have a slightly warm tuning consistent with iFi’s other models, but it isn’t overdone. There’s quick, realistic bass response; full, rich natural mids resulting in good upper mid presence. Imaging and detail are pretty impressive across all models. Staging is natural. Highs are clear and detailed, only bright or grainy on test tracks with those qualities. The Gryphon steps well forward of the other two DACs, but that’s expected given its price and award-winning status. 

Listening Notes

For close listening, I used Roon ARC and Roon to push Hi-Res FLAC and MQA from Qobuz and TIDAL directly to the headphone output of my iPhone, iPad, or Apple Silicon MacBook Air. Immediately afterward, I listened to each selection a second time with an iFi DAC taking the place of the system headphone out.

Then I activated the audio filters to assess their impact on each track and the headphone pairings I used. Headphone choices were the Meze 99 Classics and its new open-back look-alike – the Meze 109 PRO. I also used the Sennheiser Drop 6XX to test their output power.

The reference tracks came from my New Releases For You section in Roon and Community member recommendations from What We Are Listening To [2022-10].

John Coltrane – Blue Train – from Blue Train: The Complete Masters using the iFi GO blu with the Meze 99 Classics.

iPad headphones out:

Those landmark opening horn lines feel mournful! Paul Chambers’ loping bass is rubbery in the right channel. Coltrane’s horn soars in the center upper left, but there’s not a lot of detail to engage with. The piano and cymbals are lost, not much character in the drums. Backing horn parts aren’t very distinct. It almost feels like listening to an MP3. There’s good energy during Lee Morgan’s break, but that’s all coming from him. There’s heaps of nuance missing. 

iFi GO blu:

The legendary three-horn intro has returned to its full glory! Rhythm section synergy is on full display from the first few bars, and the bop lines from the piano cut through the mix better. Trane’s horn is rounded and warm, with sumptuous tonal color and mild grain when he digs into the body – but there’s also excellent air. 

The entire soundstage has improved depth. The backing horn lines are distinct, with more precise imaging now. Morgan’s break absolutely crackles with his signature fire. Curtis Fuller’s trombone lays in with some cool blue riffs. When the horns lay out, Kenny Drew kicks the piano up a gear as Philly Joe and Paul Chambers lock in perfectly. The GO blu presents the trio segment splendidly. This is what several constituents of the Miles Davis Quintet at work are supposed to sound like! The GO blu and the 99 Classics pair well here and do this track justice.

Filters review:

XBass: This filter doesn’t work too well here. The bass is placed pretty far right in the mix, and with the filter activated, the track feels lopsided. 

XSpace: This scoops out the bass a bit too much and also takes away from the piano, creating an unnaturally thin sound. Spatial shaping is just more EQ. 

XBass+XSpace: This added watery depth to the soundstage during Curtis Fuller’s break due to the splashy plate reverb. During the piano trio segment of the track, this filter played really nicely.  

No Filters: Returning to an unprocessed signal demonstrated that while the filter settings were agreeable in places, they’re not necessary on this particular track because the interplay and musicianship outstrip any need for sound fiddling. 

Creedence Clearwater Revival – Green River – from At the Royal Albert Hall using the iFi GO bar with the Drop/Sennheiser 6XXs.

MacBook Air headphones out: 

This is another excellent example of how a carefully chosen DAC improves music listening. The laptop headphones out doesn’t generate enough power to adequately run these headphones. This is something that many of us have encountered: we take tentative steps into quality headphones only to realize they need more than our stock devices can provide to sound their best. And that’s precisely what I experienced when I tried to run these moderately power-hungry Sennheiser 6XXs. 

Consequently, there’s not much going on here other than volume. The track is a live rocker, so it suffers considerably less than some other selections might have. The bass throbs shapelessly, cymbals are lifeless, anemic snare snap, boxy drums, and guitars are scratchy and mildly abrasive. These are relatively warm headphones, but some highs are sharp and brittle.   

iFi GO bar:

Here’s where the GO bar revealed CCR’s true colors. GO bar powered the Sennheiser 6XXs effortlessly. 

Green River exploded to life with driving bass lines that exhibit thunderous heft. The snare leaps to the fore tucking itself between the vocal and just below the bass. Fogerty’s vocal is filled out and soulful. His melismatic lyrics fold themself into Stu Cook and Doug Clifford’s heavy groove like broken-in chambray. Tom Fogerty’s guitar, practically inaudible before, provides extra color with Byrds-like chiming rhythm lines. John’s stinging guitar leads were so gritty and distinctive that they pulled me into an unplanned bonus lap. 

I loaded up the new Travelin’ Band: Creedence Clearwater Revival at the Royal Albert Hall documentary on Netflix to see them crank this one out on archival film. Another benefit was immediately highlighted, portable DACs make everything sound better. They’re not just for music. It’s difficult to fully articulate how much detail was missing when using the laptop’s headphones out when compared to the GO bar. It’s something that has to be heard to fully understand.

Filters review:

XBass: the low bass region is heavier and has a rounder depth. There may be a slight heft for definition trade-off. But still, a decent enough filter when applied to this track.

XSpace: this filter has more of an upper mids/low highs focus, drawing out the airy frequencies. It saps the groove and doesn’t work on this track. 

XBass+XSpace: The added punch in the lows is balanced by the presence boost providing equal helpings of drive and space. This setting really works for this track and headphone pairing. 

No filters: returning to an unprocessed sound wasn’t a big jolt. That’s always a good indicator that the filters were well-implemented and designed. 

Abel Selaocoe – Ibuyile l’Africa / (Africa is Back) from Where is Home (Hae Ke Kae)  using the iFi xDSD Gryphon with the Meze 109 PRO

iPhone headphones out: 

This performance really drove home the point of our portable DAC testing exercises. Ibuyile l’Africa (Africa is Back) is a traditional South African hymn sung during the apartheid era that encourages African youth to shape their future and cherish their traditions. It provides a taste of South African cellist Selaocoe’s distinctive and diverse talents by blending isiZulu vocals with an ethereal cello solo contributed by Yo-Yo Ma. 

It’s also a demonstration of the eclectic range of recommendations you’ll encounter in the Music threads of Roon Community. Even the iPhone’s paltry headphones and its difficulty pushing Meze Audio’s 109 PRO couldn’t entirely strip it of its beauty and emotional depth. Still, it’s overtly apparent that instrumentation and musicianship of this caliber are painfully underserved by the iPhone’s onboard DAC. And in many more ways than just the downsampling of the original 24/96 Hi-Res track. I felt rude listening to the piece in this way.

iFi xDSD Gryphon: 

When heard through the xDSD Gryphon, entire landscapes of previously absent tonal color, gentle dynamics, and acoustic space are revealed. The interplay of instruments and voices is intoxicating and captivating in equal measure. The violins swell among the warmer cello, and beautifully expressive vocal lines rise and fall with the melodic string accompaniment as the piano adds light punctuation and delicately flowing motifs. To enjoy a composition this beautiful with coffee and quality open-back headphones under a giant oak tree in the park on a golden autumn morning is audio-decadence-defined. One I never would have had without Roon ARC, iFi Gryphon, and the Meze 109 PRO’s similarly spellbinding contributions to the experience. 

Filters review:

XBass: Ouch! When activating the XBass filter, I was assailed by an unexpected loud snap. It’s the first time I’ve encountered that when using the filter options on one of these devices. That was quite unpleasant. In this piece, XBass has less of an effect. There’s some marginal added depth when the cello and piano are present, but they’re superfluous and unneeded.

XSpace: Again, not much benefit. The piece already enjoys a lovely recording space and remarkable dynamics.

XBass+XSpace: Another loud pop. The experiment is concluded until I figure out the cause.

No filters: The composition and performance are masterful in their own right. There’s no need at all for any menial improvements. The sudden, painful spikes caused by activating the filter have made me cautious about playing with the settings further.  

Conclusion

iFi’s commitment to making high-quality audio accessible to everyone continues. Their new lineup of versatile High-Res portable DACs is perfect for enjoying the benefits of Roon ARC, Roon, or any other media you consume on your mobile device or laptop. Portable DACs make everything sound better. They’re not just for music. Gaming, movie streaming, podcasts, radio… all your better sound wishes are granted.

All three models are flexible feature and connectivity-rich DACs with bespoke device-tailored feature implementation and impressive output power capable of driving demanding headphones. The iFi xDSD Gryphon is an award-winning portable DAC with support for up 32-bit/768kHz PCM; DSD512, DXD768, full MQA, and Bluetooth codec decoding overachiever with excellent sound and features. GO blu and GO bar were equally impressive by packing pristine audio quality into pixie-sized packaging. I can’t envision more portable on-the-go audio than iFi’s GO blu and GO bar.

They provided an immediate and obvious improvement over the onboard DACs we pitted them against, and they’re some of the most affordable inroads to high-quality audio that can be found. Even better, they were foolproof when integrated with Roon! Paired with our headphones and song selections, they were thoroughly exceptional sonically. iFi Audio makes it easy to enjoy high-quality audio wherever you go. Simply match them with any of the headphone options in The Roon Store to rediscover and reconnect with your favorite music.

Their winning streak in on-the-go value-for-price audio makes it a strong candidate for consideration whether you’re looking to take ARC to the next level or optimize your desktop setup. Any choice you make is guaranteed to reap Roon ARC rewards – and your ears will thank you!

For more details, please see iFi’s partners page.

Additional observations of note:

• If your iOS devices are older models, you’ll want to ensure they’re compatible with iFi’s portable devices. I use an older iPhone (iPhone 7 on iOS 15.6.1) that wouldn’t send audio via USB to the iFi devices if my battery was below a certain charge level. My newer iPad worked without any problems. 
• The text on the GO blu and GO bar is nearly invisible due to its low contrast. GO bars LEDs are on the small side also, making them difficult to read.
• The Gryphon’s analog inputs become line outputs when USB, Bluetooth, or S/PDIF are selected as input. 
• The Gryphon USB-C input has priority over the S/PDIF input. To use the S/PDIF input of the Gryphon, you must disconnect the USB-C input.
• On two occasions, Gryphon emitted a loud pop from the headphone out when activating the audio filters. I couldn’t determine a cause, but the unexpected jolt was unpleasant. Other iFi owners have mentioned similar behavior in online forums. I recommend caution when applying the filters. Hopefully, iFi will investigate and fix the issue. It was the only less-than-stellar impression I had of the Gryphon.

iFi portable DAC FAQs

Are these devices Roon Certified?

• Yes, each of these iFi portable DACs is Roon Tested. Simply plug them into a USB port or compatible adapter, then enable the device (or select the Zone connected to the iFi DAC) in Roon to enjoy better sound quality!

What file formats and resolutions do they support?

• iFi GO blu: up to 24-bit/96kHz PCM via USB. Bluetooth 5.1 codecs: SBC (standard Bluetooth), AAC (Apple iOS), Qualcomm’s aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX LL (low latency), Sony’s LDAC, and LHDC/HWA Adaptive, aptX HD, and LDAC
• iFi GO bar: up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256 native, and MQA via USB.
• iFi xDSD Gryphon: up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM, DSD512, DXD768, and MQA. Up to 24-bit/192KHz PCM and DoP (S/PDIF) 

What type of input and output connections do they have?

• iFi GO blu: 
• Inputs are USB-C and Bluetooth 5.1. 
• Outputs include 1 x unbalanced 3.5mm, and 1 x balanced 4.4mm headphone outs.

• iFi GO bar: 
• Inputs are 1 x USB-C. 
• Outputs include 1 x unbalanced 3.5mm, and 1 x balanced 4.4mm headphone outs. 

• iFi xDSD Gryphon: 
• Inputs are 2 x USB-C, (one for audio, and one for charging) Bluetooth 5.1, 1 x 3.5mm S/PDIF, 1 x 3.5mm analog, and 1 x 4.4.mm analog. 
• Outputs include 1 x unbalanced 3.5 mm and 1 x balanced 4.4mm headphone outs. 
• The Gryphon’s analog inputs become line outputs when USB, Bluetooth, or S/PDIF are selected as input. 
• The USB-C input has priority over the S/PDIF input. To use the S/PDIF input, you must disconnect the USB-C input.

Tech specs: 

iFi GO blu:

• DAC Chip-set: Cirrus Logic 43131
• Bluetooth Chip-set: Qualcomm QCC5100
• Compatibility: Roon Tested, Bluetooth 5.1
• Audio inputs: 1 x USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1
• Audio outputs: 1 x unbalanced 3.5 and 1 balanced 4.4.mm headphone outputs
• Supported File Formats: up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and Bluetooth 5.1 codecs: SBC (standard Bluetooth), AAC (Apple iOS), Qualcomm’s aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX LL (low latency), Sony’s LDAC, and LHDC/HWA Adaptive, aptX HD, and LDAC
• Dynamic Range: > 120dB(A)
• Output Impedance: < 1Ω
• THD+N: Balanced: < 0.009% @ (6.5mW/2.0v@600Ω); Single-ended: < 0.03% @ (100mW/1.27v@16Ω)
• Power Output: Balanced: 245mW @ 32Ω, 5.6v @ 600Ω; Single-ended : 165mW @ 32Ω, 2.8v @ 600Ω
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 45kHz (-3dB)
• Battery Life: 8-10 hours
• Weight: 0 lbs, 0.95 oz.
• Dimensions: 2.1″ (W) x 1.3″ (H) x 0.5″ (D)

iFi GO bar:

• DAC Chip-set: Cirrus Logic 43131
• Compatibility: Roon Tested
• Audio inputs: 1 x USB-C
• Audio outputs: 1 x unbalanced 3.5 and 1 balanced 4.4.mm headphone outputs
• Supported File Formats: up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256 native, and MQA via USB.
• Dynamic Range: 109dB(A) Balanced; 108dB(A) Single-ended
• Output Impedance: < 1Ω
• THD+N: Balanced: <0.002% (6.5mW/2.0V @ 600Ω); Single-ended: <0.09% (100mW/1.27V @ 16Ω) 
• Power Output: Balanced: 475mW @ 32Ω; 7.5V @ 600Ω; Single-ended: 300mW @ 32Ω; 3.8V @ 600Ω
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 45kHz (-3dB)
• Weight: 0 lbs, 0.1 oz.
• Dimensions: 2.6″ (W) x 0.9″ (H) x 0.5″ (D)

iFi xDSD Gryphon:

• DAC Chip-set: Cirrus Logic 43131
• Bluetooth Chip-set: Qualcomm QCC5100
• Compatibility: Roon Tested, Bluetooth 5.1
• Audio inputs: 1 x USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1
• Audio outputs: 1 x unbalanced 3.5 and 1 balanced 4.4.mm headphone outputs
• Supported File Formats: up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and Bluetooth 5.1 codecs: SBC (standard Bluetooth), AAC (Apple iOS), Qualcomm’s aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX LL (low latency), Sony’s LDAC, and LHDC/HWA Adaptive, aptX HD, and LDAC
• Dynamic Range: > 120dB(A)
• Output Impedance: < 1Ω
• THD+N: Balanced: < 0.009% @ (6.5mW/2.0v@600Ω); Single-ended: < 0.03% @ (100mW/1.27v@16Ω)
• Power Output: Balanced: 245mW @ 32Ω, 5.6v @ 600Ω; Single-ended: 165mW @ 32Ω, 2.8v @ 600Ω
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 45kHz (-3dB)
• Battery Life: 8-10 hours
• Weight: 0 lbs, 0.95 oz.
• Dimensions: 2.1″ (W) x 1.3″ (H) x 0.5″ (D)

What comes in the box?

iFi GO blu:

• iFi GO blu
• User manual
• Warranty card
• iFi decal
• Soft travel case
• USB-A to USB-C cable

iFi GO bar:

• iFi GO bar
• User manual
• Warranty card
• iFi decal
• Leather travel case
• Lightning to USB-C cable
• USB-C cable
• USB-A to USB-C adapter.

iFi xDSD Gryphon:

• iFi Gryphon
• User manual
• Setup guide
• Warranty card
• iFi decal
• Soft travel case
• Lightning to USB-C cable
• USB-C cable
• USB-A to USB-C cable

The arc of Roon: A continuous line of progression

I’m going to start by giving you a peek behind the curtain. The last few weeks have been absolutely incredible at Roon. The reason is the recent unveiling of Roon 2.0, our most exciting release yet. It’s packed with new features and delivers significant performance improvements on more hardware platforms than ever before. 

Even better, it includes something our customers have requested for a long time – something that forever changes how we use Roon. It’s called Roon ARC – think of it as your own custom-built streaming service powered by your Roon Library at home. It’s now included free of charge with every new and existing Roon subscription. With ARC, staying connected to Roon and the music we love is easier than ever! We’re genuinely humbled by your enthusiasm for ARC and delighted to hear how much you’re enjoying it. 

We’ve been surprised by how many of you have asked about the name, “Why Roon ARC? What does ARC stand for?” Roon ARC isn’t an acronym for anything. Roon ARC just felt right – it named itself after what it wanted to be. 

ARC: a curved structure spanning space that forms a bridge and connects two points.  

And that’s precisely what Roon ARC does. It’s a beautifully designed, intuitive mobile app that creates a bridge to your entire Roon collection of local files and streaming favorites at home – no matter where you are. It includes Roon’s goldmine of music information, Roon Radio, Daily Mixes, New Releases For You, and Roon’s Valence discovery engine – all on your mobile device. 

Just as Roon Bridge creates a bridge between your audio devices, Roon ARC provides a connection across space to your Roon Library. And it utilizes the same audio engine as your Roon setup at home. Now you can explore, rediscover, and expand your music collection with great sound – no matter where you are. 

Wait, great sound on mobile devices? That’s not a thing… is that a thing?! 

We get it. Some of you may wonder if you read that correctly. High-resolution audio wherever you are… on mobile devices? Can you do that? Aren’t mobile devices solidly MP3 territory? We’re excited to say no, they are not, and yes, you can totally do that. As always, Roon is happy to help.

We’ll show you how to get high-quality sound from Roon ARC on your mobile device using the AudioQuest DragonFly – a tiny DAC/headphone amp powerhouse disguised as a magic iridescent USB stick. Best of all, it’s one of the most affordable and enjoyable audio upgrades you can make. 

Flight of the DragonFlys, a flash of sonic color 

Even the most conscientious and committed screen agnostics must admit that they spend a great deal of time with their mobile devices. As a music lover, that means the sound you’re getting from music apps probably isn’t all that it could be. More than that, none of the sound you’re getting is that good. That’s because our device’s DAC falls into the “just good enough” performance bracket, even on laptops. 

But it’s only a mobile device, right? So we deal with it. Our real listening happens on our music systems at home – we say to ourselves. But there doesn’t have to be such a vast disparity in sound quality on mobile if you take flight with a DragonFly.

They’re powered when plugged into the port of your mobile with an adapter and take over decoding from the integrated device DAC. They’ll work with tablets and nearly any Windows or Mac machine. Or you can use them as a pre-amp, plug DragonFly into the USB from a turntable, or your laptop, then connect a pair of powered speakers. Bam, instant hi-fi system.

AudioQuest’s first DragonFly appeared in 2012. Over the last 10 years, the squadron has grown to three wings. The DragonFly Black, DragonFly Red, and flight leader – DragonFly Cobalt. Three impressive DAC/headphone amps that deliver a significant upgrade in sound quality over each other and absolutely smoke the mobile’s onboard DAC. They’re USB sticks dressed in automotive-grade iridescent paint (except for Black) with a 3.5mm headphone out on the other end. Small enough to stick in your pocket or drop into a backpack. They even come with a travel case. So how do they work, you ask?

Each DragonFly model features an ESS Sabre DAC chip, advanced power circuitry, filtering, and signal implementation, producing exceptionally detailed playback of up to 24-bit/96kHz PCM and MQA audio. They have minimal impact on mobile battery life and are firmware upgradeable. The Dragonfly on the sticks lights up to indicate the resolution of the track being played: standby (Red), 44.1kHz (Green), 48kHz (Blue), 88.2kHz (Yellow), 96kHz (Light Blue), and MQA (Purple). Pretty. It reminds me of Chord’s use of color. We’ll discuss audio details a bit more when we talk about their sound using some excellent tracks AudioQuest shared with us. 

Listening Notes

I used Roon ARC to push High-Res FLAC from Qobuz and TIDAL to the DragonFlys using my iOS phone while out and about. Then used them with Roon 2.0 on an Apple Silicon MacBook Air. My headphone pairings were the Meze 99 Classics and its new open-back look-alike – the Meze 109 PRO (review coming soon). I also used the Sennheiser Drop 6XX to test their output power. I queued up the playlist AudioQuest shared with us (see the DragonFly for ARC playlist on your home page in Roon.) and let it throw songs at me. I’d pause and play tracks while swapping out DragonFlys, eager and amazed to hear their differences in real time. 

I started with the headphone output of my iPhone by shuffling the playlist. Then I free-played ARC and Roon for an hour to note the differences between the DragonFly models.

Bobby Hutcherson – Love Song from Montara

Love Song is a percolating electric piano, vibes, horns, and hand percussion track that fuses soulful jazz with 70s R&B and features the heaviest players Blue Note Records had in their roster at the time. The track is off Hutcherson’s simmering soul jazz groove-fest meets Latin rhythm 1975 album, Montara. A bit of a sleeper in the soul jazz lineage. All Blue Note albums seem to project a deeply individual groove, and this one excels at it. Its active arrangement and mix of instrumentation fit our needs perfectly.

iOS out:

With the headphone out of the iPhone, all I got was more volume. There wasn’t any degree of detail, which really robbed the track of life. It felt suffocated and flat. Still an interesting piece but obviously underserved with the OS DAC. There was clearly a lot missing.

DragonFly Black: 

Immediately there’s a night and day difference in sound quality. It doesn’t even feel like the same song. It’s wholly alive and awash with detail. The vibes and Fender Rhodes piano resonate over each other as Afro-Cuban percussion and hand drums add depth and texture. When the horns come in, their timbre and tonal differences are vivid, finding space to breathe. The increased output power rendered greater imaging and clarity from the Meze 109 PRO.

DragonFly Red: 

Just as the Black surpassed the iOS output, Red is a giant step up from the Black. The detail is much sharper but not bright or grainy. The bass extension is nice and full. The horns are incredible. There’s more space to the soundstage and depth to the recording. Everything sounds more filled out; the AudioQuest headphone amp in the Red delivers nicely. There was wonderful synergy on this track when paired with the Meze 109 PRO and enough wow factor to impress jaded gear heads.

DragonFly Cobalt:

This was another startling jump in sound quality. I only expected a subtle improvement, but there were remarkable differences between Red and Cobalt. The pulsing ringing current from the vibes and sparkle of the piano are soulfully articulate, the musical interplay feels more fluid with the improved resolution, and the bass has a richer depth. Horns have lovely detail and presence. All the percussion exhibits finer granular character. There’s beautiful organic density to the music, increased dynamic response, and excellent output power. The soundstage is wide but natural. Imaging is a bit more speaker-like. It’s genuinely impressive – enough so to make the listener study the specs. And I’m a sound guy, not a specs guy.

The ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip is here. That’s the same DAC chip I’ve seen in the best-sounding DACs I’ve reviewed. But we know there’s more to a DAC than just its chip. Looking further… there’s also an AudioQuest headphone amp, improved microprocessor, mono-clock with jitter control, improved power circuitry, noise filtering, and an integrated minimum-phase slow roll-off filter. All of that results in impressively natural and thoroughly enjoyable sound. It’s truly awe-inspiring performance, especially considering the Cobalt provides sound quality of this level from a USB stick that slips into your pocket.  

The sound character observations above held when free listening on ARC and Roon Remote across the tracks on the AudioQuest Playlist and my Roon library favorites. 

Conclusion: Climb aboard the DragonFly.

Each move up the DragonFly color scheme resulted in an immediately detectable jump in fidelity. With the DragonFly Cobalt ultimately glowing the brightest. As it should be, it’s their flagship DAC. I can’t emphasize enough how surprised I was by what I heard. If you’re seeking a no-compromise experience that’s on par with your at-home Roon listening, Cobalt provides astounding performance in an unbelievably small package. 

But Cobalt’s excellence in no way suggests that the others aren’t star players. The entry-level Black is a vast improvement over the iOS and Mac system output. It perfectly demonstrates what adding the correct external DAC can do. Compared to Black, DragonFly Red is aflame with detail and dynamics, providing an instantly perceived leap in sound quality that had already been greatly improved. They easily drove the Meze 99 Classics, Meze 109 PRO, and even the 300Ω Sennheiser 6XX.  

They’re versatile and can be used for a range of scenarios beyond music listening. Here’s a testimonial from Noris, our Tech-Support team lead:

AudioQuest’s DragonFly DAC and headphone amps are perfect companions to Roon ARC or any listening that could benefit from improved sound quality. They remove all roadblocks to high-resolution audio on the go and on your desktop – and the entry price is unbeatable, no matter which one you choose. Grab a DragonFly, your favorite headphones, and your mobile for travel-friendly, superior sound quality wherever Roon ARC takes you. 

For more details, please see AudioQuest’s partners page.

Additional observations of note:

• For mobile device connection, use an Apple camera adapter for iOS. The AudioQuest Dragon-Tail USB-C adapter can be used for Android.
• Each DragonFly was rock solid with Roon ARC and Roon Remote. When using them, I didn’t have a single sync, volume, or responsiveness issue. 
• There’s an entire DragonFly flight detachment at the ready across Roon. It’s one of the most used DACs among Roon staff. 
• Updating the firmware of the DragonFly is as easy as downloading the AudioQuest device manager and accepting the update. 

AudioQuest DragonFly FAQs

Are these devices Roon Certified?

• Yes, all three AudioQuest DragonFly models are Roon Tested. Simply plug them into a USB port or compatible adapter, then enable the DragonFly (or select the Zone connected to the DragonFly) in Roon to enjoy better sound!

What file formats and resolutions do they support?

• AudioQuest DragonFlys support up to 24-bit/96KHz PCM and MQA rendering.

What type of input and output connections do they have?

• All AudioQuest DragonFly models feature a single USB-A input
• All AudioQuest DragonFly models feature a single 3.5mm headphone output

Tech specs: 

DragonFly Black:

• DAC Chip-set: ESS ES9010 DAC chip with integrated minimum-phase fast roll-off filter
• Compatibility: Roon Tested, MQA renderer
• Audio inputs: 1 x USB-A
• Audio outputs: 1 x 3.5 mm headphone output
• Supported File Formats: up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and MQA
• Headphone Amp: Texas Instruments TPA6130
• Output power: 1.2V
• Dimensions: 0.74″ (W) x 0.47″ (H) x 2.44″ (L)
• Weight: 0lb 3.5oz

DragonFly Red:

• DAC Chip-set: ESS ES9016 DAC chip with integrated minimum-phase fast roll-off filter
• Compatibility: Roon Tested, MQA renderer
• Audio inputs: 1 x USB-A
• Audio outputs: 1 x 3.5 mm headphone output
• Supported File Formats: up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and MQA
• Headphone Amp: ESS Sabre 9601
• Output power: 2.1V
• Dimensions: 0.74″ (W) x 0.47″ (H) x 2.44″ (L)
• Weight: 0lb 3.5oz

DragonFly Cobalt:

• DAC Chip-set: ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip with an integrated minimum-phase slow roll-off filter for more natural sound.
• Compatibility: Roon Tested, MQA renderer
• Audio inputs: 1 x USB-A
• Audio outputs: 1 x 3.5 mm headphone output
• Supported File Formats: up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM and MQA
• Headphone Amp: ESS Sabre 9601
• Output power: 2.1V
• Output Impedance: 10k ohms
• Dimensions: 0.74″ (W) x 0.47″ (H) x 2.44″ (L)
• Weight: 0lb 4.2oz

What comes in the box?

DragonFly Black/DragonFly Red:

• DragonFly Black or DragonFly Red
• DragonFly Flight (owners) Manual
• 60-Day Roon subscription code (included with DragonFly Red only) 
• DragonFly travel pouch. 

DragonFly Cobalt:

• DragonFly Cobalt
• 6″ AudioQuest Dragon-Tail (USB-C male to USB-A female adapter)
• DragonFly Flight (owners) Manual
• 60-Day Roon subscription code
• DragonFly travel pouch. 

The parade of DACs, and a word of thanks!

Before launching into our review of the Mytek Liberty DAC II and Liberty THX AAA Headphone Amp, we want to thank you for your support and kind feedback. It’s what Roon is here for, to make these choices easier for you. We’re excited to hear that these articles are helpful and welcome your questions.

A few of you have asked us why there are so many DAC models and what makes them different. We completely understand your curiosity. You’ve seen reviews on DACs, including ours, that mention the chips used in a device, and the same chips keep popping up repeatedly. If that’s the case, how can all these DACs sound different?

It’s important to remember that there’s more to a DAC than just the chip that converts the digital signal to an analog one our ears can understand. Implementing the chip into the surrounding circuitry, the power supply, the analog output section, and other factors make a big difference.

Think of it this way; many guitarists have played Fender Stratocasters, but they didn’t all sound the same. There was only one Jimi Hendrix. If the guitar were the determining factor, they would have all been Hendrixes, stylistically. How the chip (guitar) is plugged into the circuitry (an individual player) makes it unique.

The origins of DACs, and their shared DNA with Mytek

A curious paradox about DACs is that they shouldn’t sound like anything. A DAC should be a ghost, present yet transparent. Stopping to consider the original purpose of convertors explains why. They began as ADACs – analog to digital to analog converters in mastering and recording studios. Their goal was to encode analog material to a digital signal and reproduce the analog original as accurately as possible. To achieve that conversion without introducing unintentional coloration was sonic Olympia. But it’s exceptionally challenging to do. There are innumerable ways to alter the sound unintentionally. Noise, harmonic distortion, inconsistent current, poor power… more than we could list. 

Fully grasping the importance of passing a musical signal through that conversion loop unadulterated is inherent in people with experience in the spaces where music is made. That understanding is at the foundation of every Mytek product. 

Mytek was born in the studio. And it’s a significant factor why their DACs and Amps are highly esteemed for their accuracy and musical purity. Mytek founder, Michal Jurewicz, worked in some of New York City’s most prolific studios just as recording technology transitioned from analog to digital. He knew what a well-recorded analog track sounded like. His understanding of audio circuitry, technical acumen, and passion for sonic transparency inspired him to improve the sound quality of the first digital recording systems utilized at Skyline Studio. Artists and producers praised the accuracy and sound quality of Mytek equipment, and soon Mytek gear was found in most of the top-tier recording studios in Manhattan.  

That spirit of innovation continued with Mytek’s desire to make the same musical playback equipment available to music lovers, which led to several award-winning home audio DACs that exude the same sound quality as their studio-based siblings. We’ll listen to, and share our thoughts on, the Liberty DAC II and Liberty THX AAA Headphone Amp – two stunning desktop units that place great sound and captivating close listening within a headphone cable’s reach. 

Mytek’s Liberty series, quality transparency wunderkinds

The Liberty product line was envisioned as a series of affordable, high-quality single-purpose boxes. Each is designed to perform one dedicated function exceptionally well. The Liberty DAC II had to have missed its “you have one job!” email – because it does three quite remarkably. There’s always a show-off…

The Liberty DAC II is a DAC, Pre-Amp, and Headphone Amp all in one – and it is phenomenally adept at each task. Readers familiar with the original Liberty DAC will recognize external similarities in the Liberty DAC II. The machine-stamped enclosure with Mytek logo venting is nearly the same size and design. The subtlety scaled face plate, LEDs, and rear-mounted connections orientation differ only slightly, and inputs remain plentiful. The Liberty DAC II has a remote for added convenience; the original had none. The most significant changes are tucked away inside the enclosure, unseen – but immediately heard and felt. What are they? Off we go… 

A substantial improvement comes via the new overspeced linear power supply and accompanying toroidal transformer. The analog outputs and headphone section have also received enhanced linear power circuitry. The converter chip-set was upgraded to an ES9038Q2M, the junior version of the ES9038PRO used in Mytek’s flagship product lines. These aren’t the only changes that were made, but the presence of all three is rare in a DAC of this price and size! Remember earlier when we mentioned the importance of the power and analog output stages? They’re proven in this Mytek’s pudding. 

Those power sections push up to 3 watts from the headphone jack and easily drive most high-impedance headphones. The Meze Liric and Meze Empyrean headphones paired with it very well. And it’ll decode up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256, and MQA – that covers the waterfront, and then some format-wise, with Roon streaming partners.

Wiring it up to the legacy system we’ve used the last few weeks provided stellar results. Then we connected the Liberty DAC II to a Primare Prisma MK2 Roon Ready bridge and instantly had a Roon Ready wireless legacy system. But this box sounds incredibly good no matter how you integrate it into your system – we’ll dig into the sound more deeply in our listening notes.

If you’re new to Liberty DAC II, you appreciate its finer features as much as its sound. The feeling of the 1/2dB stepped volume pot, the snap of the headphone jack when the plug seats, and how perfectly cabling locks into the rear connections. Its tactile feel is beyond satisfying.

Personally, its look and feel were pleasantly reminiscent of the studio gear of my past. It’s the first time I can say that a consumer audio desktop unit felt like studio hardware since I last had production gear on my desk daily.

The Liberty THX AAA HPA, audio purity – not morse code

The Liberty THX AAA HPA is another impressive sonic wonder in the Liberty product line. Let’s start by decoding its name. AAA is an acronym for the Achromatic Audio Amplifier technology developed by George Lucas’ THX production company. HPA stands for Headphone Amp. 

The Liberty HPA utilizes THX AAA 888 circuitry, the most linear amplifier technology available today. Its goal is hidden in the name, achromatic means “without color.” AAA technology was developed to deliver completely transparent musical accuracy with unprecedented dynamic range while maintaining extraordinarily low levels of noise and distortion – even at -1dB from the maximum output level.

The Liberty THX AAA™ HPA is a reference-grade desktop headphone device nearly identical to the Liberty DAC and equally suited for dedicated HeadFi enthusiasts or professional sound engineers. The Liberty HPA features controls for input, gain levels, and crossfeed mode on its face and four sets of analog inputs on the back. (Full tech specs for both devices can be found below)  

The Liberty HPA reinforces Mytek’s technical expertise and commitment to developing equipment capable of pristine music reproduction. Its genetics continue the legacy of the legendary Mytek Private Q headphone monitoring systems used in almost every New York City recording studio in the 1990s. Headphone cue systems are critical in music studios. Creativity instantly craters when artists and engineers can’t trust the accuracy of their headphone feeds.

The technology inside the Liberty HPA cranks out up to 6 watts of rich analog sound to four headphone outs; balanced XLR 4pin and 4.4mm, and unbalanced 1/4” and 3.5mm. That’s enough muscle to drive any pair of headphones available today with reference-grade audio transparency. Whether you’re using the Liberty HPA for studio monitoring or music immersion, you can trust that you’re hearing exactly what’s in the mix or Final Master. 

And, for those who use another DAC for reference decoding, there’s good news. The Liberty HPA can be paired with any DAC or device with analog outs. Connect it to your current DAC and feel confident that you’re hearing it at its best. The Liberty HPA dishes out power and accuracy anywhere you tie it into your signal chain.

Mytek’s Liberty DAC II and Liberty THX AAA HPA demonstrate the sonic benefits of the company’s studio heritage, delivering decoding precision and sound reproduction with astonishing musical accuracy. The only way to get closer to the original recording would be to hear it in the studio, where it was tracked and mixed.

Listening Notes

I auditioned the Liberty DAC II and Liberty THX AAA HPA in various configurations. First, using the DAC and its integrated headphone amp out, then the Liberty DAC II paired with the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 Roon Ready bridge for wireless networked streaming. Then with both of them wired to the THX AAA Headphone amp. I left the Liberty HPA gain settings on normal with crossfeed deactivated. I used the Meze Liric and Meze Empyrean for reference.

I found the sound of these devices to be absolutely stellar in their transparency and musical nature. I don’t mean a bright “audiophile” sound signature when I say transparent. That kind of presentation isn’t generally accurate because it’s been tuned to enhance higher frequencies. Both Liberty devices presented my reference albums with an exceptionally natural, lifelike sound signature. What you hear is more of the genuine character of the original recording. I wondered if that may be undesirable with genres and records with lesser production quality. I decided to test that possibility with one of Rock music’s undisputed classics.  

Rolling Stones – Exile on Main Street

This is an album I know like sugar knows ice cream. I’ve played it thousands of times on more systems than I can remember. It was recorded by The Stones while they were in the throes of legal and tax problems in England. Recording began in London before they decamped to an improvised dank basement studio in the South of France. It’s a legendary rock record, but it typically sounds murky when played by inferior devices because of its thick, humid mix. 

I demoed a few tracks from this album on the Chord Hugo 2 – 2go combo a month ago and was surprised by how wide the soundstage sounded – I’d never heard it open up so much. With the Liberty DAC II receiving wireless 24/192 kHz FLAC from the Primare streaming from Qobuz, the album crackled with wiry energy, displaying hypnotic rhythmic currents. The staging was narrower than it was with the Hugo, but it felt more natural. The sound was unbelievably analog in character. Like I was listening to a stereo mixdown on reel-to-reel tape at Sunset Sound circa the early summer of 1972.

The bass was full and had great punch. The depth of the kick drum cut through with lovely heft. The stacked guitars and organ felt less claustrophobic in the mids, and the horns, piano, and harmonica had wonderfully organic timbre and texture. The album sank wonderfully into my marrow when played through Meze Liric headphones. It was a transcendent listening session, one of those brief periods when you’re entirely engrossed in the music. It’s inspiring when music you’ve lived in feels this fresh again.

Sleep – Dopesmoker

This album just returned to streaming, thanks to renewed licensing from Third Man Records. The original album title has been restored. Dopesmoker evolved into Jerusalem upon release under the influence of eastern mysticism and cannabinoids. When I bought a copy on disc in 1999, it had a sticker on the front that read, “Threatens to eclipse the first four Sabbath albums in a wall of pot smoke and despair.” How could you not buy that?! 

For this one, I added the Mytek THX AAA HPA to the Liberty DAC II and Primare NP5 Prisma MK2, then seated the Meze Empyrean on my head. Now, admittedly, a stoner rock cult album may seem like a strange choice of demo music. But it contains one of the most unique untameable, and idiosyncratic organic signals you can throw at a converter – distortion-soaked layered guitar riffs.

For anyone schooled in fuzzology, Dopesmoker’s hour-long primordial riff swamp is ideal fuel for DAC study. The track’s chugging intro builds slowly in volume and instrumental intensity before an avalanche of Sovtek fuzz-fueled Orange Amplification crashes down upon the listener at 2:47 seconds in. It’s incredibly heavy, but its undulating oceans of woolly fuzz sounds remarkably musical. If ever there was an album that would suffer from enhanced analytical decoding, it would be this one. Instead, the waves of sonic magma are astoundingly controlled and detailed – oozing from the Liberty boxes with every watt of their pulverizing intensity perfectly delivered for maximum crushing impact.

It’s the first time I’ve played it in its entirety in a while, and I quickly realized just how poorly it’s been treated by Bluetooth streaming and the DACs on my laptop or phone. Follow the smoke to the riff-filled land? Can do, dude!

Conclusion, I have discovered my new go-to reference playback gear 

Mytek’s studio origins shine through in all their products; they exude a confident understanding of digital encoding, reference-grade playback purity, and studio-grade reliability. It’s a significant factor why their DACs and Amps are so highly esteemed. These products are perfection, unerringly reliable in Roon, and built to sustain years of heavy use – and, they make the same equipment used to create timeless music available to music lovers. 

The Liberty DAC II and Liberty THX AAA Headphone Amp have become my new reference DAC and HeadAmp. Their transparency and accuracy resonate with my studio and production background like no other prosumer DAC/Headphone Amp combination I’ve used previously has. They deliver phenomenally pristine sound and allow me to hear my favorite music exactly as the artist intended. 

If you’re looking for a DAC/AMP or Headphone Amp that shares DNA with studio-grade gear – your search is over. That legacy is at the heart of everything Mytek does. My Liberty DAC II order has been placed. 

For more details, please see Mytek’s partners page.

Additional observations of note:

• Mytek Liberty Series devices have a combination input/power button. Press and hold the button for a few seconds to power up the units.  
• The Liberty DAC II’s remote is fully integrated with Roon. Adjust volume, pause and resume play, or change tracks with the remote, and Roon responds just as if you were in the app. 
• The Liberty DAC II remembers your last volume setting when powered back up. 
• Exercise Caution: fixed output on the Liberty DAC II is achieved by turning the volume up to full. That would be an unpleasant surprise if one were to return to headphone listening after using fixed output. We’ll update these notes if an alternative fixed output mode is revealed. 
• Connecting the Mytek THX AAA to the Liberty DAC II, I used inexpensive RCA, and XLR interconnects and found the sound quality exceptionally good. 
• My preferred settings for the Mytek THX AAA HPA were with normal gain and without crossfeed activated.
• The Liberty THX AAA HPA can drive the most demanding headphones with complete ease, purchase with confidence.

Mytek Liberty DAC II and Liberty THX AAA Headphone AMP FAQs

Are these devices Roon Certified?

• Yes, the Liberty DAC II is Roon Tested and requires a wired USB connection. For wireless Roon RAAT streaming, simply connect the Liberty DAC II to a Roon Ready bridge. I used the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 in my tests with excellent results. 
• Roon Certification doesn’t apply to the Liberty THX AAA HPA. It’s a standalone headphone amp that can be connected to a DAC, Pre-amp, or any similar device with analog outs.   

What file formats and resolutions do these devices support?

• Mytek Liberty DAC II up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256 native, MQA™, DXD (USB); up to 24-bit/192KHz PCM, DSD64 DoP and MQA (EBU, S/PDIF, Toslink)
• Mytek Liberty THX AAA HPA is a reference-grade headphone amp. It can handle any signal you send to it. 

What type of input and output connections do they have?

• Mytek Liberty DAC II: 
• Inputs are 2 x SPDIF, 1 x optical, 1 x AES/EBU, and 1 x USB-B (USB2 Class2 driver-less)
• Outputs include 1 x 6.35 mm headphone output, 1 x unbalanced RCA, and 1 x balanced XLR
• Mytek Liberty THX AAA HPA: 
• Inputs are 3 x RCA, 1 x balanced combination XLR / 1/4” TRS
• Outputs include 1 x balanced XLR 4pin, 1 x balanced 4.4mm, 1 x unbalanced 6.35mm, 1 x unbalanced 3.5mm headphone outs, and 1 x Pre-amp RCA

Tech specs: 

Mytek Liberty DAC II:

• Compatibility: Roon Tested, MQA decoder/renderer
• DAC Chip Set: ESS SABRE ES9038Q2M DAC chip
• Inputs are 2 x SPDIF, 1 x optical, 1 x AES/EBU, and 1 x USB-B (USB2 Class2 driver-less)
• Outputs include 1 x 6.35 mm headphone output, 1 x unbalanced RCA, and 1 x balanced XLR
• Dynamic Range: 127dB DR
• Sample File Formats: up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256 native, MQA™, DXD (USB); up to 24-bit/192KHz PCM, DSD64 DoP and MQA (EBU, S/PDIF, Toslink)
• Headphone Output Power: 300mA, 3 Watts, designed for hard-to-drive headphones, 
• Headphone output impedance: 0.1 Ohm
• Power Supply: Linear with automatic voltage switching 
• Dimensions: 1/3rd Rack Mounting – 5.5″ (W) x 1.740″ (H) x 8.8″ (D)
• Weight: 4lbs.

Mytek Liberty THX AAA HPA:

• Amplifier Technology: THX AAA certified
• Inputs are 3 x RCA, 1 x balanced combination XLR / 1/4” TRS
• Outputs include 1 x balanced XLR 4pin, 1 x balanced 4.4mm, 1 x unbalanced 6.35mm, 1 x unbalanced 3.5mm headphone outs, and 1 x Pre-amp RCA
• Dynamic Range: 147dB (A-weighted)
• Volume Control: Premium 27mm analog ALPS attenuator
• Total Harmonic Distortion: -150dB min
• Headphone output power: 6 watts
• Power Supply: Built-in oversized 60W linear toroid with automatic voltage switching
• Dimensions: 1/3rd Rack Sizing – 5.5″ (W) x 1.740″ (H) x 8.8″ (D)
• Weight: 4lbs.

What comes in the box?

Mytek Liberty DAC II:

• Mytek Liberty DAC II
• USB 2.0 Cable
• Aluminum Apple remote
• Power cord
• Owner’s manual

Mytek Liberty THX AAA HPA:

• Mytek Liberty THX AAA HPA
• AC power supply
• Owner’s manual

Saying it aloud sounds a bit silly… but this truly is a golden era for standalone DAC buyers. Today’s DACs come in every form factor imaginable with expanded connectivity options and future-proof format and resolution support. Whether you’re shopping for your first external DAC or looking to upgrade, chances are there’s an ideal product within your budget that covers your requirements and promises years of enjoyment. La belle epoch du DAC is now!

Chasing DAC magic

In our previous review, we explained how easy it is to integrate Roon and improve the sound quality of a legacy hi-fi system with a carefully chosen DAC. Saying it aloud sounds a bit silly… but this truly is a golden era for standalone DAC buyers. There’s a burgeoning selection of affordable, feature-rich, great-sounding DACs from an ever-growing list of manufacturers. 

Comparing current options in the <$500ish range to that of even a few years ago brings their rapid proliferation into sharp focus. Today’s DACs come in every form factor imaginable with expanded connectivity options and future-proof format and resolution support. Whether you’re shopping for your first external DAC or looking to upgrade, chances are there’s an ideal product within your budget that covers your requirements and promises years of enjoyment. La belle epoch du DAC is now!

We also touched upon adding high-resolution wireless streaming convenience to DACs without networking capabilities with the help of a Roon Ready Bridge or streamer. We’ll cover that in more detail later in this article as we continue our how-to/review theme by pairing two Expert Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) award winners. EISA’s 2021-2022 Best DAC recipient, the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M, with the 2022-2023 Best Streamer awardee, the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2.

High-quality sound meets feature-packed value

Brit-gear powerhouse Cambridge Audio has built exemplary audio components for five decades and DACs since the mid-1990s. That pedigree of expertise is reflected in each new product they deliver. The DacMagic 200M is their latest flagship converter and neatly exemplifies the high-quality sound meets feature-packed value mashup we mentioned earlier. The proverbial boxes get a real tickin’ with this one. 

The DacMagic 200M provides:

• Dual mono ESS Sabre DAC chips.
• Support for up to 24-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512
• Full MQA support – Cambridge Audio’s first device to do that. If you’re one of Roon’s many TIDAL subscribers looking for an endpoint that can handle MQA decoding & rendering, the DacMagic 200M takes you there.
• Two sets of optical/coaxial input connections + USB-B and Bluetooth aptX
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outs
• A capable Class A/B headphone amp
• Intuitive ease of use and all the front panel LEDs you could want. 
• All of that is packed into a footprint roughly the size of a cigar box – making it equally at home on a desktop or in an AV cabinet.

The “single device solution” honor is tossed around plenty often in reviews, but the DacMagic 200M legitimately crushes it. It can accommodate three wired digital sources plus Bluetooth while integrated into a system and still handle headphones duties – for just $549. That’s a lot of DAC for the money. If the flexibility and features detailed above are on your must-have list, the DacMagic 200M certainly deserves a look. As expected, build quality, fit, and finish are typical top-tier Cambridge Audio caliber. So is its sound signature.

The DacMagic 200M has a curious reputation among some reviewers for being on the warmer side. I don’t really hear that. Defining “warm sound” is entirely subjective. In my opinion, warm sound involves a more classic tube-driven character, subtly rounded highs, and a pronounced midrange richness. The DacMagic was nearer to that in our test legacy system but not so much with powered monitors. As expected, the Bluetooth sound quality wasn’t as good as direct wired connections. But that’s typical with lossy streaming protocols. However, the DacMagic 200M’s Bluetooth sound was notably better than I’ve heard in some competing devices. In my opinion, Bluetooth connectivity is more of a convenience feature than a sonic one.  

Integrated with my test legacy system (RCA input only Yamaha receiver, B&W LM1 stereo speakers, and budget <$100 sub), the DacMagic 200M delivered clean, balanced, agile, and punchy sound. There was excellent detail and clarity throughout the frequency spectrum. The results were even more shocking when I connected it as a pre-amp to a pair of Klipsch R-15PM powered bookshelf speakers. 

The Klipsch are very efficient, energetic powered monitors – the detail retrieval and crispness of the DacMagic 200M practically exploded from the speakers. The notes seemed to be etched into the air. It wasn’t excessively bright or abrasively aggressive; more articulate and expressive in character. Though admittedly, the bagpipes in AC/DC’s It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock’ n’ Roll) certainly shaved off a few extra ear cilia. 

In headphones, the mids were full and seamlessly balanced with the punchy low-end but not augmented or pushed forward, cramping the highs. Snare drums had a nice snap, and cymbals resolved with crisp detail. Imaging and soundstaging were pleasing with an organic depth and breadth through headphones. Some tracks/headphones pairings exhibited a more pronounced “audiophile” character. But that had more to do with the source material or headphones I selected than a defining quality of the DacMagic 200M. 

Overall, the sound signature was balanced, natural, pleasantly detailed, and thoroughly enjoyable. Just what we expect from Cambridge Audio gear.

Bridges to better sound

Another question we frequently see from potential customers concerns Streamers and Bridges, what they do, and whether they need one to use Roon. 

Technically speaking, your phone, tablet, or computer are streamers because they receive and play digital music over the internet or your home network from streaming services or local file storage. The trouble with those devices as streamers is they aren’t designed for optimal music playback. When installed on a device, Roon software takes over streaming responsibilities from the operating system and provides better quality audio. However, depending on your needs, you may still want a standalone streamer whose only tasks are audio-related.

Roon Ready network bridges behave similarly to streamers, but they’re more Rooncentric – any audio hardware attached to one is made immediately available to Roon. They provide plug-and-play readiness from Roon to the digital inputs of your audio gear, whether it’s a standalone DAC, powered speakers, or a legacy system with digital inputs. They’re an instant system game-changer.

Some recent audio hardware has streaming protocols built in that are compatible with Roon, such as Airplay or Chromecast. Those streaming methods have bit-depth and resolution limitations that can be offensive to some Rooners. Limiting a high-resolution FLAC file encoded at 24/192kHz to CD-quality 16/44.1kHz is anathema to many listeners. Nobody wants that, give us all the bits, man! If your feelings are reflected by any of the scenarios I mentioned, we can help. 

The Roon Store has several network bridges to choose from, and our selection is growing. 

Achieving prime sound with the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 streamer

Primare of Sweden has applied a uniquely Scandinavian approach to audio manufacturing for nearly forty years – winning them awards and loyal customers. Their components meld premium sound quality with refined, timeless aesthetics. Primare practices the Swedish principle of Lagom (“laah-goam”), which translates to “just the right amount.” It’s an appreciation of harmonious, proportional balance – in all things. 

Fortunately for us, Primare puts that into practice in its components. Their 2022-2023 EISA Best Streamer winning NP5 Primsa MK2 continues their penchant for striking the perfect blend of technology, functionality, and ease of use. “Just the right amount,” as defined by Primare, turns out to be quite generous. 

The NP5 Prisma MK2 is the latest version of their standalone Prisma technology – the feature-rich platform at the heart of Primare’s most prestigious hi-fi components. The app reveals that the NP5 Prisma MK2 is an impressive hub of features, not just a streamer.

Even better, it’s a perfect candidate for this DAC + Streamer pairing how-to. There are a few critical factors to remember when selecting a streamer or bridge. They apply to our scenario as well.

• Ensure that the connectivity features are consistent with those on the device you’re connecting it to.
• Similarly, confirm that the streamers’ file format and resolution capabilities match those of the DAC, AVR, or component you’re pairing it with. 
• Reflect upon whether a DAC is actually needed. If the DAC in your AVR, integrated amp, disc player, or powered speakers is to your liking, then forget the whole external DAC business. Connect a streamer/Roon Ready bridge directly to the device you already have, and you’re set to go.  

The NP5 Prisma MK2 gels perfectly with the DacMagic 200M. Its connection points are simpatico. It can send 24-bit/192 kHz PCM, DoP, and MQA via coaxial to the DAC. Yes, the DacMagic 200M capabilities exceed 24/192kHz PCM but streaming services currently cap resolution at 24/192 FLAC or MQA. Anything above that is still a unicorn format that doesn’t exist.

As a bonus, the NP5 Prisma MK2 brings high-quality streaming to any component with a digital input plus all the added benefits of the Prisma platform. Anyone interested in Roon who owns a playback device with digital inputs is all set. One and done. And it’s wee, small enough to sit atop the DacMagic 200M or disappear entirely in an AV rack. It’s about the size of the first generation of Roku boxes.

But what about sound quality; is that a factor with streamers as it is with DACs? Yes, whenever components are being paired they should be as compatible sonically as they are in terms of connectivity and format support. Sending Roon wirelessly through the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 to the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M offered an unexpected surprise.

The DacMagic 200M suddenly exhibited a sumptuous warmth. I pulled up the Great British Sound playlist Cambridge Audio shared with us (now available on the Home page in Roon) and hit shuffle. 

I played the first three tracks it kicked out through the DacMagic 200M on its own, then again with the NP5 MK2/DacMagic 200M pairing. Each time the crisp detail of the DacMagic 200M was slightly rounded, the mid-range tonality more decadent, the bass meatier and more responsive. Amy Winehouse’s You Know I’m No Good crackled with added soul, energy, and attitude when fed through the NP5 MK2/DacMagic 200M combo.

The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M by itself was plenty sweet. Teamed with the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2, it was absolutely divine. For my sonic tastes, they offer a perfect blend.

Conclusion

The award-winning Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M and Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 perfectly demonstrate the improved sound and convenience that can be had by carefully matching quality externals. It also demonstrates just how painlessly and affordably adding Roon Readiness to your setup can be with the help of The Roon Store. Whether you’re shopping for your first DAC or Streamer, or looking to upgrade, chances are there’s an ideal product within your budget that fulfills your needs and promises years of enjoyment.

For more details, please see our Cambridge Audio and Primare Partner page.

Additional observations of note:

• Some DacMagic 200M reviews I’ve read incorrectly state that it can’t be switched between variable and fixed output mode. The instructions are cleverly hidden under the heading Toggle between fixed and variable output modes in the owner’s manual.
• The volume knob on the DacMagic 200M has a bit more resistance than most. If you have difficulty turning knobs, the DacMagic may provide a workout. I also noticed a bit of play in the knob but realized it facilitates the mute function achieved by pushing the knob inward.
• The DacMagic 200M is set to turn off after 20 minutes of inactivity by default. That seems to make some folks dyspeptic. Thankfully it’s easy enough to turn off. See the manual for more details.  
• For Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 MQA passthrough, use the Primare app to set the digital output to Native and sample rate to 192 kHz when connecting it to an MQA compatible DAC.
• The Primare Prisma app is a treasure chest of features and incredibly easy to use. Peak around it there and enjoy it in addition to Roon.

Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M and Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 FAQs

Are these devices Roon Certified?

Yes, the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M is Roon Tested and requires a wired USB connection. For wireless Roon RAAT streaming, simply connect the DAC to the Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 Roon Ready streamer or any other Roon Ready bridge. 

What file formats and resolutions do these devices support?

• Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM, DoP64 (optical) up to 24-bit/192 kHz PCM, DoP64 (coaxial) support up to 24-bit/762 kHz PCM, Native DSD512, DoP DSD256 (USB) Full MQA core and renderer
• Primare NP5 Prisma MK2 supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz PCM, DoP128. WAV, FLAC, LPCM, MQA, AIFF, ALAC, MP3, MP4 (AAC), WMA, OGG

What type of input and output connections do they have?

• Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M: Inputs are 2 x Optical/Toslink, 2 x SPIDF, 1 x USB Type B, Bluetooth 4.2 SBC and AptX. Outputs include 1 x 6.35 mm headphone output, 1 x unbalanced RCA, 1 x balanced XLR

•  Primare NP5 Prisma MK2: inputs are 1 x USB Type-A input for connecting digital storage devices. Outputs include 1 x Optical/Toslink, 1 x Coaxial RCA. Connectivity for Roon Ready, Airplay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, UPnP, and more with the Primare Prisma App.

Tech specs:

Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M:

• DAC Chip Set: Dual ESS9038 DAC chips, one per channel
• Frequency response: 10Hz – 58kHz (± 1 dB) 
• Total Hamonic Distortion (THD): @ 1KHz, 0dBFS
• Audio inputs: 2 x Optical/Toslink, 2 x SPIDF, 1 x USB Type B, Bluetooth 4.2 SBC and AptX 
• Audio outputs: 1 x 6.35 mm headphone output, 1 x unbalanced RCA, 1 x balanced XLR
• Output Impedance: <50 Ohms unbalanced, <100 Ohm balanced 
• Max Output Level: 2.1V RMS unbalanced, 4.2V RMS balanced
• Headphone Output Power: >300mW at 32Ω, >65mW at 150Ω 
• Supported File Formats: support up to 24-bit/96 kHz PCM, DoP64 (optical) up to 24-bit/192 kHz PCM, DoP64 (coaxial) support up to 24-bit/762 kHz PCM, Native DSD512, DoP DSD256 (USB) Full MQA core and renderer
• Power supply: 100-240V AC
• Dimensions: 8.6″ (W) x 2.0″ (H) x 7.6″ (D)
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Warranty: 2 years

Primare NP5 Prisma MK2:

• Connectivity: Roon Ready, Primare Prisma App, Airplay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, UPnP
• Audio Inputs: 1 x USB Type-A input for connecting digital storage devices
• Audio outputs: 1 x Optical/Toslink, 1 x Coaxial RCA
• Supported File Formats: support up to 24-bit/192 kHz PCM, DoP128. WAV, FLAC, LPCM, MQA, AIFF, ALAC, MP3, MP4 (AAC), WMA, OGG
• Power supply: 100-240V AC
• Dimensions: 5.6″ (W) x 1.4″ (H) x 4.9″ (D)
• Weight: 1.1 lbs.
• Warranty: 3 years

What comes in the box?

Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M:

• Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M
• AC power supply
• 3 AC power plug adapters (US/Euro/UK)
• 1-7/8″ Bluetooth antenna
• Quick Start Manual
• Important Safety Instructions

Primare NP5 Prisma MK2:

• Primare NP5 Prisma MK2
• AC power supply
• 4 AC power plug adapters (US/UK/EU/AU)
• RS232 cable
• User Guide
• Chromecast Built-in Quick Start Guide

Creating a Rooniverse of your own

The audio gear-o-sphere is absolutely bursting at its seams with devices and confusing terminology – especially when viewed from the perspective of the casual observer, budding audiophile, or veteran Hi-Fi enthusiast. Buyers begin to feel like they need an electrical engineering degree just to purchase new gear. That can be offputting; we know because you’ve told us so.

Every few days, The Roon Store gets questions like this one recently sent in by Terry.

Greetings, Roon Labs! I’m interested in Roon, my friend uses it and raves about it! He told me to find a good DAC and maybe a streamer, but I’m not sure what that is. I have a recent Mac laptop and was into stereo gear in college, but that was nearly 50 years ago. I’d like to try Roon, but I don’t want to replace everything I use now. Can you help me figure out what I need?

p.s. I’m also interested in a pair of headphones. Thanks!

Terry R.

Yes, we can! And thank you, Terry, for allowing me to use your question and requirements as the foundation for this combination Roon “how-to” and gear review! 

Roon is all about helping our customers get the most out of their systems. A new line of products from Burson Audio provides an ideal solution for anyone looking to modernize legacy equipment, get CD quality or better wireless playback, and add quality headphone capabilities to their current setup. For this installment of Roon Ready Writeups I built a legacy system similar to Terry’s to demonstrate how easily it can be done.

Burson Audio headphone amp/DACs – a single box solution.

First, let’s start with a common question; “What’s a DAC?” Simply put, DAC is an acronym for digital to analog converter. A DAC is involved whenever digital audio is played from computers, tablets, or smartphones. Its job is to convert digitally encoded audio files, like those from streaming services, to an analog signal that can be understood by your amplifier, speakers, and ears. This helps illustrate a DAC’s critical role and why selecting a quality device when upgrading a legacy audio system is of paramount importance. A bad DAC is a fast track to tarnishing the sound of a classic Hi-Fi system with a single device. An underperformer will negatively impact every digital source it plays.

Fortunately, Burson Audio has several sonically advanced, sturdily built, and value-packed DACs to choose from. The Playmate 2, Conductor 3X Performance, and Conductor 3 Reference DACs cover our needs. Burson Audio’s value to cost reputation was established through building enthusiastic word-of-mouth appreciation from customers, reviewers, and select dealers rather than through marketing teams, advertising budgets, and trade-show attendance. It’s been a winning strategy for Burson for nearly thirty years.

Burson Audio DACs cut an attractive, minimalist profile in their high-density aluminum enclosures. The ridged “cool case” design acts as a heat-sink to offset the internal temperature generated by their Class A solid-state circuitry. The brushed space grey face plates are wonderfully clean, featuring a single OLED display, microphone, and headphone connections, and a knurled knob for making volume and menu adjustments. Multiple or single menu buttons are provided on the front panel, depending on the model. The Performance and Reference series models include a remote. The Playmate 2 does not, but it can be purchased separately – which I highly recommend for added operating convenience.

The menu and settings are intuitive and easy to use. Press the menu button to access options, turn the knob to your preferred setting, press the knob to navigate it, and save preferences. I left the more granular settings on the default settings for this review and only adjusted the input, output, and gain. 

Burson Audio’s research and development notoriety is well established. Their custom-designed op-amps, advocacy of “op-amp rolling,” and max current power supply circuitry are the most visible hallmarks of their innovative approach. But their tech sensibilities extend well beyond that. For proof, grab the included hex key and look inside one of their devices. You’re greeted with the same clean design aesthetic found on their exterior. You’ll see Burson Audio’s signature OP-amps alongside top-of-the-line components from Neutrik, specially tuned Qualcomm CSR8675 Bluetooth 5.0 receivers (in the Reference and Performance models), and Sabre 32-bit ESS9038Q2M DAC chips. A more complete breakdown of the specs for the discussed models can be found at the end of this review. 

Suffice it to say these are expertly designed, speced, and assembled devices. There’s nothing of merit to fuss about when inspecting the physical or technical build quality.

Supercharging a legacy Hi-Fi system

To review the Burson DACs, I considered the questions Terry sent us: “How can I add Roon and headphones listening to my setup without having to replace everything else I’m using.” 

I’m happy to say it’s much easier than many new Roon customers think! The first step involves installing Roon software on a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. That machine serves as the Roon Core, the central nervous system of your Roon ecosystem. Terry already owns a compatible Mac laptop, so his Core requirements are taken care of. On to step two…

He’ll need a device that’s recognized by Roon software and capable of talking to his current setup. The Burson Conductor 3 Reference, 3X Performance, and Playmate 2 are perfect solutions for that! They’re all certified by Roon to work seamlessly with our software. And I can tell you, as a former member of Roon’s tech support team, that I can’t remember receiving a single support request for a Burson Audio DAC. They worked absolutely flawlessly for me with Roon. 

They paired exceptionally well with the legacy test system I built using a late 1990s Yamaha receiver, B&W LM1 bookshelf speakers, and a budget subwoofer. I connected the Burson DACs to the Yamaha using inexpensive Monoprice Monolith RCA cables. And to further simulate Terry’s setup, I migrated my Roon Core to a Macbook Air, connected it to the Burson DACs with a 15′ USB-C cable, and then used my iPad as a Roon Remote.

Fulfilling the last requirement, the Burson DACs feed muscular Class A wattage to their headphone connections, plenty enough to drive even the most power-hungry headphones. They effortlessly pushed the Meze 99 NEO‘s, Empyrean, Liric, and my Massdrop 6XX cans. 

Sound Quality

I demoed each DAC with the legacy setup by randomly shuffling my Roon library to simulate laid-back weekend background music, then switched to headphones for a close listening session. As previously mentioned, all the sound shaping filter settings were left on the factory defaults. 

When integrated with the system setup, the Burson DACs sounded wondrously lush, exhibiting an exquisitely balanced, pleasing, natural sound signature across the entire frequency range. Their voice is full and dynamic; with stellar resolution and responsiveness. Detail, transparency, instrumental realism, imaging, space, and soundstage were at the level of quality powered stand mount speakers. I caught myself comparing their imaging and sweet spot to KEF’s several times.

Lows were full-bodied with excellent depth and chest-thumping energy. Charles Mingus‘s double bass literally made the walls vibrate. Impressive, especially when they were produced by <$100 budget sub that had never dreamed of sounding that good. 

Mids were rich, detailed, and wonderfully expressive. Unexpected song elements revealed deeper character – Fu Manchu’s fuzz-drenched guitars showcased molten texture as their amps unleashed waves of titan-slaying distortion. On the other end of the spectrum, Acoustic guitar strings were silky and articulate, and vocal presence was remarkably vivid and lively. 

Mid-Highs and Highs were airy and detailed but with a pleasant smoothness. There was copious transparency, excitement, and shimmer, but it was exceptionally musical and proportionate to the mids and lows. Gregor Piatigorsky, Charles Munch, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Dvorak‘s Cello Concerto in B minor (Op.104) danced in the high ceilings of my living room like it had been written for the space. The room is nearly entirely reflective surfaces and glass that sometimes cause problems for higher frequencies. But it accommodated the crushing volume I pushed through the Burson DACs without generating harsh harmonics or flutter echo. 

The sound signature of all three units was pretty consistent. The Conductor 3 Reference and Conductor 3X Performance benefitted in terms of transparency, resolution, and detail – advantages provided by Burson’s flagship V6 Vivid op-amp circuits. I also connected to those models using the enhanced Qualcomm Bluetooth 5.0 receivers and noticed the benefits of the upgraded circuitry. The Playmate 2 performed so admirably with the stock op-amps that I’ve decided to plug in the V6 Vivids for a test drive before returning it. All said it would take considerable effort and an active imagination to fault the sound quality of these units. They easily outperform devices several times their price.  

Headphones listening notes

My recent headphone listening has paired Meze models with the Chord Hugo 2 and Mojo 2. It’s a solid combination and one I’ve really enjoyed. My appreciation of Burson DACs was clinched after their test system performance, but their synergy was positively transcendent when partnered with the Meze 99 NEO, Liric, and Empyrean headphones.

Bob Marley and The Wailers – Positive Vibration from Rastaman Vibration

Pairing the 99 NEOs with the Conductor 3X Performance made them sing like open-back models. Heavy bottom end is synonymous with Roots Reggae, but it’s a very musical low end. Through an inferior DAC and poorly paired headphones, it often sounds muddled and flabby. I was floored by the depth of the bass extension and how well the Meze’s balanced them with the mids and highs on this classic track. Heavy detailed bass will reveal weaknesses quickly. But there were none present with this pairing.

Miles Davis Quintet – Shhh/Peaceful from In a Silent Way

For this incredibly funky, heavily textured Electric-Miles era jam, I broke out the Meze Liric and wired up the Playmate 2. The diminutive desktop Headphone Amp went straight to work, revealing tons of detail, luxurious mid-range wetness, and low-end groove. Miles’ trumpet fearlessly reaches far into the more challenging outer limits of its range a couple of times in this number. Those notes tend to sound sharp and brittle on most systems, but they were slightly rounded with the Playmate 2 and Liric. It’s a dense, energetic arrangement (three keyboards??!!), but with this combination, there was ample room to step inside, get comfortable, and look around.

Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here from Wish You Were Here

The Floyd’s moving ode to Syd Barrett, their lost founder, and friend, was perfectly showcased by the Empyrean and Conductor 3 Reference marriage. David Gilmore‘s Martin acoustic and expressive vocals are the perfect vehicles for Roger Waters‘ stirring, heartfelt lyrics to his erstwhile, broken bandmate. The BBC radio audio collage intro possessed surprising ambient detail. The whistling heterodyne signal haunts the corners of the soundstage like a phantom. After this, I hopscotched through the classic album rock in my library, playing one well-worn track after another, soaking up freshly revealed nuances with each new selection.

Conclusion

Burson Audio manufactures sonically advanced, sturdily built, value-packed DACs that outperform units several times their price. The Playmate 2, Conductor 3X Performance, and Conductor 3 Reference DACs paired phenomenally well with our legacy test system.

Their sonics are wondrously lush, exhibiting an exquisitely balanced, pleasing, natural sound signature across the entire frequency range. Their voicing is full and dynamic. Detail, transparency, instrumental realism, imaging, space, resolution, responsiveness, and soundstage thoroughly exceeded expectations. Headphone listening was transcendent when paired with the Meze 99 NEO, Liric, and Empyrean.

Discovering previously missed details in my reference tracks and favorite songs is one of many rewards gleaned from testing and reviewing new gear. These Burson DACs scattered easter eggs throughout my most treasured go-to albums and performances to such a degree that finding them became a sonic fever dream of rediscovery.

The Playmate 2, Conductor 3X Performance, and Conductor 3 Reference DACs are ideal solutions for anyone looking to modernize, add quality headphone capabilities to their current setup, or affordably upgrade their existing DAC. I highly and enthusiastically recommend them!

Additional observations of note

• The Burson Audio Performance and Reference models run a bit hot after a few hours of use, even with the Cool Case design. Burson offers an optional Cool Stand to help alleviate that.
• Like a Class A guitar amp, unplugging headphones or connection cables, while the DAC is in use, isn’t recommended. Doing so could damage the unit. Always press pause before disconnecting cables.
• Burson Audio provides specially designed XLR to RCA connectors for pairing the Conductor 3X Performance to receivers with RCA jacks. Failure to use them can damage the units. They’re quality connectors, use them. Burson has done the work for you; there’s no need to overthink things.
• The fixed line-out signal of these DACs is pretty hot. Changing the output to Pre-Out and lowering the output level helped provide a wider range of volume adjustment for the Yamaha. Legacy receivers with adjustable input gain could use the fixed DAC line-out signal with minor input level attenuation.
• The volume knob on the DACs is a little fussy. Volume units may jump up or down in the opposite direction of manipulation. 
• The icon for Audio File Type and Resolution flickered slightly on the Performance and Playmate models I reviewed, a minor quibble – yet potentially annoying to some buyers.

Burson Audio DAC FAQs

Are Burson Audio DACs Roon Certified?

• Yes, these DACs are Roon Tested and work flawlessly with a wired USB connection. For wireless Roon RAAT streaming, simply connect the DAC to a Roon Ready bridge of your choice.

What file formats and resolutions do Burson DACs support?

• All three Burson Audio DACs we reviewed support up to 24-bit/192 kHz PCM via their Toslink/Co-axial input. Connected via USB support extends to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and Native DSD512. The Reference and Conductor models support DSD via PCM up to DSD512. Playmate 2 DSD via PCM support up to DSD256.  

What type of input and output connections do they have?

• Conductor 3 Reference: inputs include 2 x RCA line-level, USB C, Optical Toslink, Coaxial, BlueTooth 5.0, and gaming microphone. Outputs are 1 x RCA Pre Amp, 1 x RCA Line Level DAC Out, and 2 x 6.3mm headphone jacks.
• Conductor 3X Performance: inputs include USB C, Optical Toslink, Coaxial, BlueTooth 5.0, and gaming microphone. Outputs are 1 x XLR Preamp/DAC, 1 x RCA Preamp/DAC, 1 x 6.3mm headphone jack, 1 x XLR headphone jack.
• Playmate 2: inputs include USB C, Toslink, and gaming microphone. Outputs are 1 x RCA Pre-Amp and 1 x 6.3mm headphone jack.

Tech specs:

Burson Audio Conductor 3 Reference:

• DAC Chip Set: 2 x ESS9038 DAC chips, one per channel
• Frequency response: ± 1 dB 0 – 58Khz
• Total Hamonic Distortion (THD): <0.0015%
• Inputs: 2 x RCA line-level input, USB C, Optical Toslink, Coaxial, BlueTooth 5.0, Microphone
• Outputs: 1 x RCA Pre Amp, 1 X RCA Line Level DAC Out, 2 x 6.3mm Headphone
• Headphone Amp Wattage Rating: 7.5 Watts SE
• Dimensions: 10″ (W) x 12.125″ (L) x 2.75″ (H)
• Weight: 6 lbs, 9.75 oz
• Warranty: 2+1 Years 

Burson Audio Conductor 3X Performance:

• DAC Chip Set: 1 x ESS9038Q2M DAC chip
• Frequency response: ± 1 dB 0 – 58Khz
• Total Hamonic Distortion (THD): <0.0015%
• Inputs: USB C, Optical Toslink, Coaxial, BlueTooth 5.0, Microphone
• Outputs: 1 x XLR Preamp/DAC, 1 x RCA Preamp/DAC, 1 x 6.3mm Headphone, 1 x XLR Headphone
• Headphone Amp Wattage Rating: 6 Watts XLR / 3 Watts SE
• Dimensions: 7.688″ (W) x 9.72″ (L) x 2.25″ (H)
• Weight: 3 lbs, 15.125 oz 
• Warranty: 2+1 Years 

Burson Audio Playmate 2 DAC: 

• DAC Chip Set: 1 x ESS9038Q2M DAC Chip
• Frequency response: ± 1 dB 0 – 35Khz
• Total Hamonic Distortion (THD): <0.002%
• Inputs: USB C, Toslink, Microphone
• Outputs: RCA Pre-Amp, 6.3mm Headphone 
• Headphone Amp Wattage Rating: 3.5 Watts SE
• Dimensions: 6″ (W) x 8.375″ (L) x 2.25″ (H)
• Weight: 2 lbs, 4.5 oz
• Warranty: 2+1 Years 

What’s in the box?

Burson Audio Conductor 3 Reference:

• Conductor 3R DAC
• Power cable and supply
• Four spare OPamps
• USB C cable
• Allen wrench
• Extra fuse
• Remote

Burson Audio Conductor 3X Performance:

• Conductor 3XP DAC
• Power cable and supply
• XLR to RCA adapters
• Four spare OPamps
• USB C cable
• Allen wrench
• Extra fuse
• Remote

Burson Audio Playmate 2:

• Playmate 2 DAC
• Power cable and supply
• USB C cable
• Extra fuse
• Gaming headphones adapter
• Allen wrench

Premium wireless streaming speakers

Roon Ready Writeups returns with a look at one of the most popular device categories among Roon customers: All-in-One Speakers. Due to their popularity, we receive a lot of speaker questions from our customers. The most frequently asked is, “Which is the best speaker if I want to ….?”

Fortunately, there are several stellar options that satisfy the dizzying range of possibilities represented by the ellipsis in the previous sentence. Let’s start with two Bluesound speakers that are staff and customer Roon Ready favorites – the Pulse 2i and its smaller sibling, the Pulse Mini 2i.

The Pulse 2i is Bluesound’s premium all-in-one stereo speaker. It delivers 150 watts of NAD Electronics bi-amplified, room-filling sound to two 5.25″ woofers and two 1″ dome tweeters by PSB. The Pulse 2i produces stunning full-range audio from an enclosure that’s roughly the size of a shoebox. Everything I played through this speaker was nicely detailed and deeply satisfying; it shines with symphonies, saxophones, and singer-songwriters. 

The Pulse Mini 2i is its downsized sibling. It’s small but punches above its weight, delivering 100 watts of lovely NAD bi-amped audio via 4 PSB drivers, two 4″ mid-bass woofers, and two 0.75″ dome tweeters. The sound quality belies its miniature footprint. If you’re like me, you’ll catch yourself looking at this speaker in disbelief while putting together ingredients in the kitchen. 

Aside from their power and physical differences, Bluesound has designed both speakers with the same core feature set. Both support Roon’s most utilized formats: FLAC (up to 24/192kHz), WAV (up to 24/96kHz) MQA, and MP3. As well as AAC, WMA, WMA-L, OGG, ALAC, and AIFF. Rear-mounted connection points include:

• 1 USB Type-A port for connecting a flash drive 
• 1 USB Mini B for servicing
• 1 combination mini-stereo/optical audio input (adapter included) 
• 1 mini-stereo headphone out
• 1 RJ45 gigabit ethernet port 

While we always recommend using a wired ethernet connection when possible, both speakers feature robust dual-band WiFi connectivity for when you want to grab your speaker and head for the patio, garage, or pool. Both provide rock-solid and hassle-free Roon Ready connectivity in addition to TIDAL Connect, Airplay 2, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD. Setting up with Bluesound’s BluOS app is intuitive and effortless; see the how-to video below.

The speakers have a moisture-resistant, sealed, wedge-like design with top-mounted touchpad controls. Roon Advanced Audio Transport (RAAT) implementation guarantees that those controls are fully integrated with Roon. Raise or lower the volume, pause, or change tracks from the speaker controls and Roon responds just as if you were in the app. Their unique shape and lack of rear bass porting make them perfect for corner placement. Both speaker enclosures accept a custom bracket from BlueSound for clean wall mounting. 

Ideal customer use scenarios

Another strength of Bluesound speakers is their ability to satisfy a wide range of customer needs: 

• If you’re an aspiring audiophile or someone who’s looking to add another Roon Zone, these are a great choice. 
• Both are great-sounding options for the patio, bathroom, office, or kitchen. The Roon/Pulse Mini 2i combo has certainly made family meal prep more enjoyable at my home. 

And, with a few easy clicks in the Blu-OS app, any of the following configurations are possible:

• A sleek all-in-one, Roon Ready stereo setup for a small apartment or larger room. 
• A multichannel wireless surround system. 
• A fixed, multi-speaker group that’s easily synced in Roon.

Problem-free enjoyment

More impressive than all of the qualities detailed above, however, is that they’re 100% reliable in Roon. I haven’t experienced any problems with these speakers since adding them to my Roon setup – not a single audio dropout or disappearing zone. A sum total of zero issues… that’s another sweet spot our customers seek in equal measure to sound quality. And Bluesound truly delivers when it comes to convenience. Roon customers’ feedback is completely consistent with my experience: they’re a pleasure when paired with Roon. There’s no fuss; it’s just you and your favorite music.

Our conclusion

The qualities described above are more than enough to earn our enthusiastic recommendation. But Bluesound’s crowning achievement is that they build wonderfully sounding speakers for an unbeatable price. The Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i deliver rich, detailed, dynamic sound across their full frequency range. They’re exceptionally balanced in their voicing, there’s no artificial EQ enhancement to cause hearing fatigue. Bluesound delivers a natural sound stage that invites and rewards extended listening sessions. This is just exactly what you expect from a premium speaker; transparency, balance, and detail that brings you closer to your favorite music.

The Bluesound Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i excel in that respect while adding a wealth of convenience and reliability. Simply add the Bluesound Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i to your setup and enjoy Roon/Bluesound sound and convenience for yourself!

For more gear options, please see Bluesound’s partners page.

Bluesound Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i FAQs

Are the Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i Roon Ready?

• Yes! The Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i support wireless Roon streaming over your home network making them perfect options for adding additional music anywhere in your home.

Which file formats, and resolutions, are compatible with the Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i ?

• Roon’s most utilized formats are supported! FLAC (up to 24/192kHz), WAV (up to 24/96kHz), MQA, and MP3 – in addition to AAC, WMA, WMA-L, OGG, ALAC, and AIFF.

What types of input and output connections are provided on the Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i? 

Physical connections include:

• 1 USB Type-A port for connecting a flash drive
• 1 USB Mini B for servicing
• 1 combination mini-stereo/optical audio input (adapter included)
• 1 mini-stereo headphone out
• 1 RJ45 gigabit ethernet port 

Wireless connectivity support for:

• Roon Ready connectivity plus dual-channel Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD
• TIDAL Connect, Airplay 2, Google Assistant, Spotify Connect, Live Radio, and others via Bluesound’s BluOS app

Tech specs:

Pulse 2i

• Loudspeakers: 2 x 5.25″ PSB woofers; 2 x 1″ PSB tweeters
• Total amplification power: 150 watts bi-amplified (65W x 2 woofers; 10W x 2 tweeters)
• Frequency response: 45-20,000 Hz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: THD+N 0.030%
• Dimensions: 16.5″ (W) x 7.8″ (H) x 7.55″ (D)
• Weight: 11 lbs, 2 ozs
• Warranty: 1 year

Pulse Mini 2i

• Loudspeakers: 2 x 4″ PSB woofers; 2 x .75″ PSB tweeters
• Total amplification power: 100 watts bi-amplified (40W x 2 woofers; 10W x 2 tweeters)
• Frequency response: 50-20,000 Hz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: THD+N 0.030%
• Dimensions: 13.2″ (W) x 6.8″ (H) x 6.1″ (D)
• Weight: 7 lbs, 15 ozs
• Warranty: 1 year

What’s in the box?

Pulse 2i and Pulse Mini 2i come with:

• Bluesound wireless speaker
• 2 AC power cables (US and European)
• Optical to 3.5mm adapter
• Ethernet cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty/Safety Guide

The following review was graciously contributed by Roon Community contributor, Thomas. Layout and editing were added by the Roon Editorial staff to convert the forum posts to a review format.

Discovering the Escape P6 Air

I had read about the P6 Air before, but it was not clear to me if and how stereo pairing would be possible. By accident, I discovered the Escape booth at the Munich High End show in May. Unfortunately, it was not possible to listen to the speakers. But, I had a talk there, where I learned how to configure the stereo pairing with Roon. More on that is below.

A week later, I listened to the speaker at a local dealer in Germany and ordered a pair at once. I have been enjoying my Escapes for three weeks now, mainly as a garden sound system.

Sure, you can find good speakers for this price. But, it’s hard to find portable WiFi enabled speakers with the sound quality of an Escape P6 Air stereo pair.

Thomas, Roon Community Contributor

Sound Quality

There was a huge difference in sound quality with the Escape P6 Air compared to my older pair of not much cheaper SAXX-Audio AS 50 speakers I used with a Chromecast Audio dongle – and with no grouping option to my other Roon zones.

I am fortunate, because my son is grown up, and most of my neighbours are of advanced retirement age and therefore mostly hard of hearing. I love being able to listen to good-quality music at an appropriate volume outside on a warm spring/summer evening in a quiet suburb in my region. To be able to perceive something like a soundstage, or to locate instruments in a stereo setup, on the terrace in good weather with a glass of delicious wine is, for me, real quality of life!

It’s simply different than in a closed living room or listening room; even though my systems are objectively considerably better in those spaces. I’m just glad, after a long search, to have finally found outdoor speakers that largely meet my requirements.

Of course like all digital active speakers, the Escapes are DSP sounded. But there are a few options to choose from, and fewer still that can be adapted to one’s own requirements and tastes.

Creating an Escape P6 Air stereo pair in Roon

The Escape P6s were originally designed as a stand-alone solution and, in order to create a stereo effect as such, have two opposing full-range drivers in addition to the subwoofer.

Escape gave me a solution to my stereo pair requirements that uses Roon’s Procedural EQ mix filter and is better suited for outdoor use. Due to the P6 Air’s additional sound radiation to the rear a “fuller” sound image is created.

Reliable outdoor connectivity

Most of the time the connection is very stable, but it sometimes depends where on the terrace I set up the speakers. I have mesh WiFi with a router and two repeaters connected via LAN.

On one terrace, the connection runs via only one repeater – and it always works. On another terrace, my source device sometimes switches between the router and a repeater. I occasionally have problems because of this, i.e. it takes longer for a connection to become stable. The speaker connection sometimes breaks, or the signals from both speakers are not exactly synchronised. At the same time, a message appears that Roon is looking for the server. This is usually easily solved by restarting the album, radio station, or playlist.

Conclusion

With a few more days of user experience, I would add the following: Radio Paradise is usually my favourite source for daily “music consumption” when outside. But with the Escape P6 Air I can now enjoy well-produced jazz, classical, and opera – in really good quality.

20 hours on one battery charge is rarely possible in my experience, but at least 12 hours at moderate volume is absolutely feasible. Although I’ve noticed that the Escape Remote app sometimes displays my two speakers at 30% and 70 % battery capacity, respectively, at the same runtime.

Nevertheless, for me, the sound quality of the P6 Air is exceptional, even for this price point – especially in stereo pairing. They are, for me, the best sounding truly mobile outdoor speakers that I could hear so far. And, with Roon Ready as the icing on the cake that makes pairing the two zones possible.

The Roon Store only serves North America. In my particular case, being in Germany, I bought my Escape P6 Airs from an established Munich HiFi dealer. But, I hope my experience helps you in the decision-making process. I definitely recommend the Escape P6 Air!

For more details, please see Escape’s Partners page.

Tech specs:

• Connectivity: Roon Ready, Airplay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 5
• Loudspeakers: 2 x 3″mid-range drivers; 1 x 6 1/2″ woofer
• Total amplification power: 60 watts RMS total system power
• Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
• DSP: Soundstage width adjustment, user adjustable EQ
• Control interface: Top panel touch controls, Escape Remote App for iOS and Android, Google Home app
• Battery: lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo4) provides 16 hours at background volume / 8 hours at typical listening volume
• Dimensions: 7.8″ (W) x 21.6″ (H) x 7.8″ (D)
• Weight: 16 lbs, 8 ozs

What’s in the box

• P6 Air Wireless Speaker
• Power cord
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty/Safety Guide

In their essence, Empyrean and Elite are sound-emitting art objects for the head that transport their wearer to a mystical parallel universe where music has retained all the supernatural attributes regaled upon it in the tales of yore. Or something very close to that… anyway. 

Roon Ready Writeups returns with part three of our Meze earphones and headphones series. Part one highlighted the Rai Penta and Advar in-ear monitors, while Part two featured their closed-back models, the Liric, 99 Neo, and 99 Classics. In this segment, we’ll explore their flagship open-back models – the revolutionary Empyrean and Elite.

Meze’s Hypnotic Allure

In the lead-up to this review, I wondered if it was possible to discuss these models without unwittingly stepping in a pile of hyperbole. Meze’s Empyrean and Elite headphones are some of the most innovative planar magnetic headphone designs the world has to offer. But for all its accuracy, that statement utterly fails to communicate the euphoria of handling and listening to them. These products practically beg the beholder to go off the deep end descriptively. It’s as if some secret hypnotic force within their enclosures urges the writer on. In their essence, Empyrean and Elite are sound-emitting art objects for the head that transport their wearer to a mystical parallel universe where music has retained all the supernatural attributes regaled upon it in the tales of yore. Or something very close to that… anyway. 

Beauty and innovation in every detail

If Meze Audio needed to communicate its aesthetic and acoustic ethos with a single product, either of these headphones would exceed the requirements. Both result from their ongoing success in teaming up with Rinaro Isodynamics of Ukraine. Rinaro has been a fixture at the forefront of planar magnetic research and development since the 1980s. It’s a partnership built on curiosity, experimentation, and daring. The Empyrean and Elite exemplify the culmination of 30 years of intense acoustic research packed into designs that check every box, sonically and stylistically. 

Every element of these headphones is purpose-built for unparalleled performance. Meze’s characteristic attention to detail is on full display here. Empyrean and Elite come housed in a striking aluminum flight case with high-quality accessories. Not surprisingly, the stock OFC cables that accompanied the headphones were of exceptional quality. Unlike other audio companies that skimp on trimmings, Meze’s presentation is elegant, tacitly conveying respect and appreciation for their customers.

The chassis of these headphones is ingeniously milled from a single piece of precision aluminum. The skeletal grillwork isn’t just beautiful; it increases airflow and driver performance. The exceptionally lightweight carbon steel frame and unique pressure distribution headband design balance weight evenly, ensuring maximum comfort. The hybrid Alcantara and leather pads provide a cozy luxurious musical space that invites hours of relaxed listening. The ultra-thick earpads are held firmly in place by the driver’s magnetic system, making changing out ear pads an effortless task. There’s nothing left to improve in terms of form and fit.

Empyrean and Elite represent the absolute apex of planar magnetic technology. Both feature first-of-their-kind hybrid dual driver arrays that are hand assembled by Rinaro exclusively for Meze. The dual voice coil configuration improves the sound intensity distribution and creates a balanced response across the entire frequency spectrum. 

The larger switchback coil generates the low-end frequencies and is positioned in the upper part of the driver. The spiral coil delivers middle-high frequencies and is set directly in front of the ear canal, improving auditory perception in those ranges. The ovoid earcups conform to the ear’s natural anatomy and sound processing, enabling sound waves to enter the ear without any time delays or image slurring. 

The soundstage of both headphones is quite copious; their ample breadth lends additional dimension to the sound, much like listening to high-end speakers in a room but without the environmental tone coloring. 

Empyrean and Elite feature captivating, vivid sound. There’s great heft and body to the voicing, but it maintains an exceptionally even balance that provides plenty of instrumental space across a wide frequency range. High-range extension feels airy yet natural and balanced. The same holds true for the mids and the low end making them perfect for reproducing complexly layered music and critical listening – no matter your choice of music. 

Listening Notes

I demoed each track with the Empyrean, followed by the Elite, to closely examine the sonic differences between the models. Selections were played through Chord’s Hugo 2 portable DAC with the EQ and Crossfeed features set to “off.”

Simon & Garfunkel – Scarborough Fair/Canticle from Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, And Thyme

Empyrean: Roon attracts fans of every genre of music. I chose this song because it’s folk-pop music with distinctive classical attributes. The soundstage created a wide vista for examining each instrument’s voice. Notes from Simon’s acoustic bloom below the delicate ring of the chimes. The harpsichord dances behind fully resolving descending bass lines. The multitracked vocals comprise a symphony of textures. Listening to the track through the Emypreans was genuinely like hearing it for the first time. I played it five or six times in a row, attempting to focus on each instrumental element individually but got swept away in the intoxicating music every time. 

Elite: I admit to thinking that there couldn’t possibly be anything Elite could add to what I heard in the Empyrean, but I was wrong. Texture, timbre, and space are complex elements to capture in text. In the intro, Simon’s guitar has a slightly warmer mid-range resonance on the plucked strings. Air on the layered vocals feels slightly more pronounced. The harpsichord is crystalline and holographic in the far right channel. The descending bass line is fuller and authoritative but with less crispness than heard in the Empyrean. It feels foundational and broader through the Elites.  

Charles Earland – Black Talk from Black Talk

Empyrean: Black Talk is a stunning reinterpretation of The Beatles’ Eleanor Rigby with an exhilarating drive. This one perfectly demonstrates the Empyrean’s skill at bringing a song’s essence to life. The instrumentation simmers deliciously. Melvin Spark’s hollow body jazz guitar is spunky and funky. Earland digs in, and man, let me tell you – this is what the Hammond is supposed to sound like! The trumpet and tenor and perfectly articulated. The fuzzy vibration from Person’s reed tells you everything you need to know about Meze’s detailed presentation. Idris Muhammad keeps things cooking on drums. They’re back in the mix and boxy, but that’s a characteristic of the mix – not the headphones.

Elite: The Elite added a bit of overall pop to the track, and the trumpet and tenor stepped forward in the mix. My Hammond love was further accentuated here – what a lush groove! The texture on the trumpet was more apparent. The guitar picked up some heft as well. But all of this was accomplished without artificial thickening or muddying of detail. 

The Jimi Hendrix Experience – All Along the Watchtower from Electric Ladyland

Empyrean: Ok, but how do they handle Jimi’s apocalyptic take on Dylan’s pastoral original? Well, with all the detail and excitement I’d expect based on the previous selections. This track retains Jimi’s dense orchestration, but there’s more space, thanks to the Empyrean’s staging and detail. I heard either scratch or buried vocal tracks I’ve never noticed hiding in the right rear of the mix. When I consider the number of times I’ve spun Electric Ladyland, that’s an awe-inspiring feat. Jimi’s guitar multitracking brilliance is illustrated in full psychedelic technicolor, thanks to Meze!

Elite: The models’ differences were less noticeable here. Perhaps I’m still reeling from what I heard in the Empyrean, but the presentation is very similar, going from one to the other on this particular track. There may be a subtle degree of added depth in the mid-range with Elite that better showcases Jimi’s guitar prowess but it’s a very nominal difference.

Our Conclusion: The quest for perfect sound has reached its end.

Meze has carved out a unique niche among audio manufacturers, where daring and timeless artistic expression intersect with passionate innovation that exceeds all expectations. Empyrean and Elite establish a new standard, not just among audiophile headphones but in natural, accurate, life-like sound reproduction. These aren’t only the best-sounding and most comfortable headphones I’ve ever heard or worn. – they’re products of heirloom quality destined to amaze and inspire generations of music listeners. If you’re seeking headphones with unrivaled aesthetics and an accurate yet vivid and uniquely engaging sound signature, Meze should be on your shortlist. Pure magic awaits you in the Empyrean and Elite. 

Tech Specs:

Empyrean

• Driver Type: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ3
• Ear Cup Design: Open Back
• Frequency Range: 4Hz – 110kHz
• Impedance: 31,6 Ω
• Sensitivity: 100 dB/1 mW
• Maximum SPL: > 130 dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.1% at 1kHz
• Materials: Black Leather, Magnesium Frame
• Weight: 15.1 ounces
• Warranty period: 2 years

Elite

• Driver Type: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ3SE
• Ear Cup Design: Open Back
• Frequency Range: 3Hz – 113kHz
• Impedance: 32 Ω
• Sensitivity: 101 dB/1 mW
• Maximum SPL: > 130 dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.05% at 1kHz
• Materials: Black Leather, Magnesium Frame
• Weight: 15.1 ounces
• Warranty period: 2 years

What’s in the Box

Empyrean

• Meze Empyrean Open-Back Headphones
• High-strength aluminum suitcase with foam inserts
• Two sets of earpads: one Alcantara, one Real Leather
• Serial number and Inspection certificate
• Owners Manual
• Cable options: 
  • 2.5m OFC Cable, 4 pin mini XLR to 6.5mm jack or
  • 1.2m OFC Cable, 4 pin mini XLR to 3.5mm or
  • 2.5m OFC Cable, 4 pin mini XLR to XLR

Elite

• Meze Elite Open-Back Headphones
• High-strength aluminum suitcase with foam inserts
• Two sets of earpads: one Alcantara, one HYBRID Perforated Alcantara Interior + Real Leather Exterior
• Serial number and Inspection certificate
• Owners Manual
• Cable options: 
  • 2.5m OFC Cable, 4 pin mini XLR to 6.5mm jack or
  • 1.2m OFC Cable, 4 pin mini XLR to 3.5mm or
  • 2.5m OFC Cable, 4 pin mini XLR to XLR

Any audio product that inspires us to spend more time listening to music is a winner. Naturally, that makes us big fans of Meze headphones… they place high-quality audio within easy reach of most buyers’ budgets.

Roon Ready Writeups is back with part two of a three-part series on Meze earphones and headphones. In part one, we checked out their stellar Rai Penta and Advar in-ear monitors and were excited by what we heard and saw – you can find that review here if you missed it. In this installment, Meze’s closed-back models take the spotlight as we discuss their planar magnetic Liric, 99 Neo, and the 99 Classics – the model that secured them a trove of coveted awards and an equal measure of brand loyalty upon their release in 2015.

Any audio product that inspires us to spend more time listening to music is a winner, in our opinion. Naturally, that makes us big fans of Meze headphones. Not simply because they achieve that goal in addition to looking and sounding great, but more importantly – they place high-quality audio within easy reach of most buyers’ budgets. Another advantage of quality headphones is that they create a personal listening space that’s free of room coloration and that can be enjoyed anywhere.

Some owners may initially hesitate to take their Mezes on the go, but they’re certainly up to the challenge. The 99 Neo and 99 Classics cost much less than many of the more pervasive popular brands saturating the market, have far better sound, and feature superior build quality. Every component of the 99 series is manufactured in-house by Meze and is owner replaceable in the unlikely event that they should ever require repair. I can’t think of another headphone in this price range that can make that claim.

Old school cool

When I opened the 99 Neo for the first time, I was immediately smitten by its vintage vibe. Their textured black earcups evoke the retro cool of classic 1970s cans by Pioneer, Kenwood, and the Koss Pro 4AAs I wore for many years while working in radio. 

The craftsmanship of the 99 Classics is even more striking. Each pair is fitted with solid walnut earcups featuring unique grain figuration. Like a fine acoustic instrument, the patina of daily use imbues the eye-catching tonewood with additional character. The earcup shaping and finishing process takes 45 days, about the same amount of time required to build a top-of-the-line Martin Guitar. That’s an impressive commitment to quality.

Meze Audio founder, Antonio Meze, has stated that considerable effort went into achieving a uniform sound signature between the Neo and Classics, making the Neo an absolute steal for the price. The tonal presentation of the 99 Series is similar to those vintage brands mentioned earlier. I’d describe its voice as “classic hi-fi” rather than “audiophile.” Like many fellow reviewers, I couldn’t be more pleased with that as they sound perfectly lovely with a rich, soulful, naturally engaging articulation. The highs could feel slightly rolled off to some listeners, but I find them nicely detailed and authentic, without any artificially augmented coloring.

All resemblance to vintage audio headphones evaporates when it comes to comfort. Rather than the vice-like grip of those vintage models I mentioned, the 99 series are unbelievably lightweight. The spring steel frame eliminates fatigue, while the self-adjusting padded leather headband ensures maximum comfort. The medium firm, comfy earpads and snug fit provide excellent isolation inviting hours of relaxed listening. Simply put: they are the most comfortable headphones I’ve ever worn. I’ve actually fallen asleep wearing them.

Liric is Meze’s first closed-back planar magnetic headphone for audiophiles on the go. Like the 99 models, it has a somewhat vintage appeal, but sonic gold awaits inside its elegant, understated exterior. It’s a bold marriage of cutting-edge acoustic engineering and Meze’s unmistakable artistic expression, featuring the same revolutionary hand-assembled isodynamic hybrid array technology found in their flagship Emyprean and Elite models – for a fraction of the cost. In fact, Liric caught many Meze observers off-guard with its wealth of new features and by how quickly it followed the unveiling of the Elite.

The newly designed Phase-X system eliminates phase distortion while creating three-dimensional spatial imaging for immersive listening. The advanced ovoid earcup maximizes acoustic space and sonic delivery. Meze’s precisely tuned pressure equalization system enhances earcup energy release, resulting in vividly detailed, life-like, enveloping sound. Liric also introduces Meze’s new Ear Pad Air Flow system, combined with an advanced skeletal frame, soft touch leather headband, adjustable fit, and vented cushion for fantastic comfort with prolonged listening.

Liric’s sound signature is abundantly pleasing – featuring buttery mids and detailed, airy highs with robust, natural deep bass. The sound staging is astoundingly three-dimensional for a closed-back headphone.

Listening notes

I demoed each track with the 99 Series, followed by Liric, to examine the sonic differences between these models. Selections were played through Chord’s Mojo 2 portable DAC with the EQ and Crossfeed features set to “off.”

Gordon Lightfoot – The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald from Summertime Dream

99 Series: Lightfoot’s haunting ode to men who went down with the SS Edmund Fitzgerald is lush and warm through the 99s. The drum and guitar bass response is robust but not exaggerated. When the toms kick in at 1:34, the sense of depth is intoxicating. The layered guitars land right in the 99s’ mid-range sweet spot. The steel guitar has nice sparkle, with a slight roll-off of its brighter edges. Closer listening reveals nice air between Lightfoot’s vocal and the instruments’ interaction with the plate reverb. 

Liric: Through Liric, you’re placed on the ship’s deck, fully immersed in an unfolding cinematic drama relayed in the song. Liric’s presentation is remarkably organic and pleasing. They required a slight bump in volume to match the gain of the 99s. Bass extension was more pronounced yet remained natural. The warmish snare of the 99 is snappy here. The toms acquire additional heft, and instrumental detail is sharper overall as is expected, given the advanced tech packed into this model.

Bob Marley & the Wailers – Natural Mystic from Exodus

99 Series: The opening from Exodus perfectly showcases the 99s bass chops. This is my go-to for bass reference, thanks to the heavy foundation laid down by the Barrett Brothers. This track swamps out underachievers, and the 99s sail through it with finesse. The up-stroke of the guitars is clear and articulate. Bob’s vocal takes center stage and is presented with lovely detail. Like the previous track, the reverb on the voice and instrumentation has an airy warmth. This one really demonstrates the musicality and bass extension of the 99 series.

Liric: The take-away on this track is mirrored in the previous description. Liric handles the bass lines admirably, adding depth and texture without artificial coloring. The guitars demonstrate additional detail and clarity. The steel drums pop aggressively. Interestingly, Bob’s vocal feels slightly softer in some passages compared to the 99s. 

Billie Holiday – I’m a Fool to Want You from Lady in Satin

99 Series: By the time Billie recorded Lady in Satin, the turmoil of her life was fully imprinted on her voice. Her cracked, broken instrument is a startling juxtaposition against Ray Ellis’ shimmering orchestral backing. This piece dismisses charges from critics who claim that the 99 series lacks high-end definition. The soundstage here is spacious and lovely. Billie’s melancholy melismatic vocal tugs at the heart, cushioned by soaring violin accompaniment. Every instrument in the mix has plenty of room for individual examination. 

Liric: Wow, just wow! The lush presentation of the 99s is taken to an entirely new level through the Liric. The Liric feels more like an open-back design when showcasing this piece. The instrumentation exhibits increased detail, revealing previously missed call and response between Billie’s vocal and the trombone. Holiday’s delivery here is shockingly frail and intimate. The song’s storyline is one she’s lived, lending authenticity and emotional resonance to her reading.

Our Conclusion: Unbeatable audio for the price.

The Meze 99 Neo and Classics are incredibly comfortable and offer unbeatable sound quality at their price point. Build quality is on-par with models that are far more expensive. Attention to detail is top-notch; all components are replaceable if needed, and they’re easily driven by ordinary mobile devices without any significant loss in fidelity. Meze’s 99 Neo and Classics could represent the best value on the market for sound quality this impressive.  

Liric, while more expensive, offers a substantial accomplishment in planar magnetic audio. By completely reimagining the sonic advancements of their flagship Emyprean and Elite models for a closed-back design, Meze demonstrates that they’re not content to rest on past achievements. I feel confident that we’re sure to see and hear many more surprises from Meze in the future. 

Their passion for innovation and pushing boundaries is inherent across their entire product line. Whether you’re in the market for your first set of quality affordable headphones or poised to explore a planar magnetic option, Meze’s closed-back models are no-risk choices featuring sublime sound and unmatched design traits.
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Tech specs

99 Neo

• Transducer size: 40mm
• Frequency response: 15Hz – 25KHz
• Sensitivity: 103dB at 1KHz, 1mW
• Impedance: 26 Ω
• Rated input power: 30mW
• Maximum input power: 50mW
• Detachable Kevlar OFC cable
• Plug: 3.5mm gold plated
• Weight: 260 gr (9.2 ounces) without cables
• Ear-cups: ABS Plastic

99 Classics

• Transducer size: 40mm
• Frequency response: 15Hz – 25KHz
• Sensitivity: 103dB at 1KHz, 1mW
• Impedance: 32 Ω
• Rated input power: 30mW
• Maximum input power: 50mW
• Detachable Kevlar OFC cable
• Plug: 3.5mm gold plated
• Weight: 260 gr (9.2 ounces) without cables
• Ear-cups: Walnut hardwood

Liric

• Driver Type: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array® MZ4
• Operating Principle: Closed
• Ear Coupling: Circumaural
• Frequency Response: 4-92,000 Hz
• Impedance: 30 Ω
• Nominal SPL: 100 dB (1 mW / 1 kHz)
• Maximum SPL: > 130 dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.15%
• Weight: 391 g

What’s in the Box

99 Neo

• 99 Neo in Black/Silver or Black/Gold
• Hard Case: protective EVA case with Meze Audio metal logo
• 59″ braided Kevlar cable with mic/remote terminated in straight 3.5mm plug
• 3.5mm-to-1/4″ adapter
• Airline jack adapter
• Soft zippered cable and accessories pouch
• Manual
• 2 Meze Audio decals

99 Classics

• 99 Classics in Walnut/Silver or Walnut/Gold
• Hard Case: protective EVA case with Meze Audio metal logo
• 9.9′ Cable (straight 3.5mm plug)
• 59″ braided Kevlar cable with mic/remote (straight 3.5mm plug)
• 3.5mm-to-1/4″ adapter
• Airline jack adapter
• Soft zippered cable and accessories pouch
• Manual
• 2 Meze Audio decals

Liric

• Presentation Box
• Liric planar magnetic headphones
• Hard Case: protective EVA case with Meze Audio metal logo
• 122″ audio cable (straight 3.5mm plugs)
• 56″ audio cable (straight 3.5mm plugs)
• 3.5mm-to-1/4″ adapter
• Airline jack adapter
• Accessory cables pouch
• Large format full-color brochure

In the last few DAC reviews I’ve written for The Roon Store, I’ve been somewhat coy about the headphones I used to demo the devices. And let me tell you, it was hard to keep the reason for that a secret. Now, I can dispense with mystery and reveal our new partnership with Meze Audio. Like most music fans and audio gearheads who have heard Meze Audio’s products, we’re blown away by their design, build quality, and sound.

Meze has taken the audio world by storm since the release of their 99 Classic in 2015. And they’ve continued that streak with each follow-up product they’ve unveiled – dethroning some of the most revered headphones on the market in their quest for perfection. Now that we’ve spent quality time with their headphones, we can attest that their mountain of audio awards is well deserved. 

Our passion at Roon is to help you get the most musical sound reproduction possible from your system. Our Meze partnership places us in a unique position to realize that goal; few devices can transport you to an entirely new acoustic space and elevate detailed listening and music appreciation in the way a quality pair of headphones or IEMs can. They’re high-quality audio devices you can take anywhere. The abundance of small portable, affordable DAC/amps means easy high-res audio on the go – everywhere you go.

Musical Mysticism:

Meze’s products have an alluring quality inspired by the heritage of their Romanian birthplace. They create a stunning harmony made of timeless aesthetics and acoustic advancements fueled by a yearning to challenge the barriers accepted by the mainstream audio manufacturing community. 

I can’t say that I’ve been overly concerned with headphone cosmetics in the past. If they sound good and are reasonably comfortable, that’s been my benchmark. Meze changed that, their products are artworks that produce sound. Once you’ve seen and heard them, the thought of returning to ugly plastics is truly disheartening.

Advar takes its name from Romanian Mysticism, the Advar was a powerful talisman that blessed those who wore it. Just as the Meze Advar, finished in high-gloss black chrome and textured yellow gold, blesses the listener with a warm, dynamic sound. The precisely tuned 10.2 mm dynamic driver is easily driven by standard mobile devices but shines with a bump in power. Advar’s EQ curve sounds similar to the Meze 99 Classics, with a slight emphasis on the bass, upper midrange, and the mid-treble. 

The Rai Penta is Meze’s flagship IEM. The aesthetics, innovation, and build quality of their full-sized headphones are miniaturized in Rai Penta with incredible precision. They’re also the most lightweight, well-fitting, and comfortable IEM I’ve ever worn. The pebbled space-blue anodized finish is etched to display Meze’s lyre logo. Its beauty is matched only by its sound.

Rai Penta features a perfectly tuned, five-driver, hybrid array that delivers a pristine, harmonically balanced, sound signature with remarkable detail across their entire frequency spectrum. Meze’s Pressure Equalization System graces Rai Penta with a soundstage resembling their flagship Empyrean and Elite models – packing incredible value into its jewel-like enclosure. Like Advar, the efficiency of its driver array means it can be powered by ordinary mobile devices. But, when paired with a headphone DAC/amp it delivers lustrous listening.

Kick Out the Jams 

For our listening tests, I demoed each track with Advar, followed by Rai Penta, to reveal the unique sonic characteristics exhibited by the different models. They were paired with Chord’s Mojo 2 portable DAC with the EQ and Crossfeed features set to “off”.

Fleetwood Mac – Gold Dust Woman from Rumours

• Advar: This is pure 1970s album rock gold-dust at its most sublime. Advar’s subtly enhanced voicing makes it a perfect companion for this track. Each instrument in the mix is afforded ample room to breathe. Mick Fleetwood’s metronome-like rim shots are crisp, and McVie’s bass line is warm, fat, and natural. Buckingham’s layered guitar parts sparkle while Christine’s keyboard adds understated yet perfect color. Stevie Nicks’ spellbinding vocals exhibit an intoxicating depth of emotion and yearning. As the song builds and the mix thickens, the airy sense of space is retained. If I only had five minutes with Advar to make a purchase decision, this track would seal the deal.
• Rai Penta: Through Rai Penta, the experience is like sitting in the studio with the band for the final mixdown. Highs are spectacularly vivid and overall resolution is truly breathtaking. The soundstage is more spacious but not exaggerated. The instrumentation benefits from pronounced clarity and depth, the air around Stevie’s vocal is ethereal and vocal harmonies display added texture and nuance. There’s no denying that it’s a reference sound signature, but one that’s pleasing and inviting.

Compay Segundo – Yo Vengo Aquí from Nueva Antología. 20 Aniversario

• Advar: Antologia (originally titled Yo Yengo Aquí when released) was recorded a year before Segundo garnered renewed fame as the elder statesman of the Buena Vista Social Club album and documentary. He’s joined here by a Trio from Madrid for a set of Cuban and Spanish folk standards. The soundstage here is gorgeous, and the small, lively recording space adds a rich organic compression to the track. Compay’s fluid guitar lines weave through the mix as his warm voice anchors the Grupo. Spanish lead vocalist Julio Fernández fits hand in glove with Segundo’s baritone and adds tasty maracas texture. Benito Suarez deps nicely on the second guitar as Salvador Repilado’s Contrabasso provides a robust foundation. Few listeners would believe this was a quickly assembled ensemble with just a few hours of rehearsal under their belt before these recordings. Yo Vengo Aquí flows from the Advars like pure honey.
• Rai Penta: here Yo Vengo Aquí jumps from the Rai Penta like a dancer and mirrors the presentation of the previous track. Hidden details reveal themselves more effortlessly; the interplay of the instruments exhibits greater nuance and vocals are more distinct. The crispness of the acoustic guitars is enhanced, spotlighting their instrumental dexterity. Surprisingly the maracas feel slightly recessed when heard thru the Rai Penta. Rai Penta’s bass voice is full and natural but the added warmth and richness of Advar’s gentle bump in the lows is missing here. 

Gábor Szabó – Mizrab from The Socerer

• Advar: Mizrab was recorded before a live audience at Boston’s Jazz Workshop in April 1967. The ringing decay of the hand cymbal in the opening perfectly showcases Advar’s smooth upper register, as the remaining instrumentation highlights its accurate, life-like expressiveness. Szabo’s amplified acoustic unfurls fluid serpentine ribbons of mesmerizing gypsy jazz guitar throughout the piece. Hal Gordon’s hand drums feel like they’re just a few feet away as they establish a pulsing rhythmic exchange with Marty Morell’s kit. Advar places you right at the heart of Mizrab’s hypnotic musical journey.
• Rai Penta: Mizrab benefits from Rai Penta’s accuracy and detailed imaging, the same opening finger cymbals exude stunning realism, sounding as if they’re inches away from the listener’s seat. The recording space becomes more apparent and defined. The same annoying live music attendees who yammer endlessly walked the earth in 1967, you can hear them in the background while the band coaxes Mizrab along its sinuous path. Its a mesmerizing listen, with a touch less warmth than with Advar but in no way less satisfying.

The Verdict:

Meze occupies a singular position among audio manufacturers. Their passion for innovation and “no-compromise” quest for perfection drives their every decision. It isn’t hollow marketing copy; it’s confirmed by the four mouse scrolls it takes to get through the accolades listed on their home page. Their engineering acumen, choice of materials, precision craftsmanship, and build quality testify to their dedication to excellence. Attention to detail extends to the most minute elements of their products.

Advar and Rai Penta demonstrate individual strengths and have uniquely tuned voices that gelled exceptionally well with the demo tracks we selected – and everything else we played through them. They’re pieces of sound art, designed to reveal subtle details with warmth and incredible accuracy that are built for a lifetime of enjoyment. If you’re in the market for a premium set of in-ear monitors that are comfortable and boast unrivaled sound quality they deserve your consideration. Surprising intricacies are waiting for discovery in your favorite songs, hear them again for the first time.

Additional Observations of Note:

• Selecting the best-fitting ear tip is essential to getting optimal sound and isolation from both Advar and Rai Penta. Experiment with the provided ear tips until you find the one that offers a snug fit. Advar seemed a bit thin in the Low/Mid Bass until I found the correct ear tip – once found, the frequency response was lush and full.
• The MMCX connection on the Advar doesn’t fit as snuggly with the flange as it does with Rai Penta. There was no discernable loss of imaging or detail, but it creates the impression that it is not completely seated. 

Tech Specs:

ADVAR

• Driver: 10.2mm Dynamic driver
• Frequency Range: 10 Hz – 30 kHz
• Impedance: 31 Ω
• SPL: 111dB/mW
• Distortion: <1% at 1kHz
• Stock cable: braided cable made of SPC (silver plated copper) custom wires ending in gold plated 3.5mm
• Materials: Solid stainless steel chassis produced by metal injection molding, with CNC finishing
• Finish: High-gloss Black Chrome plating on the main shell

RAI PENTA

• Driver: PENTA-HYBRID DRIVER (4 x Customized Balanced Armature and 1 x Dynamic Driver working harmoniously together)
• Frequency Range: 4Hz – 45kHz
• Impedance: 20Ω
• Sensitivity: 100dB SPL/1mW
• Max Input Power: 30mW
• Distortion: <1%
• Stock cable: braided cable made of SPC (silver plated copper) custom wires ending in gold plated 3.5mm
• Materials: High-precision sculpted chassis is CNC milled from solid aluminum
• Finish: Pebbled anodized Space-Blue finish with aluminum Meze Lyre detail

What’s in the Box

ADVAR

• Left and right in-ear monitors
• 48″ braided audio cable with dual MMCX connectors and a straight 3.5mm plug
• 5 Pairs of Final Audio silicone ear tips
• Cleaning tool
• MMCX removal tool
• Hard Case: protective EVA case with Meze Audio metal logo
• User Manual

RAI PENTA

• Left and right in-ear monitors
• 48″ Braided cable with dual MMCX connectors and a straight 3.5mm plug
• 3.5mm-to-1/4″ Adapter
• Airline adapter (female 3.5mm jack-to-dual 3.5mm male plugs)
• 8 pairs of ear tips
• Cleaning tool
• Hard Case: protective EVA case with Meze Audio metal logo
• User Manual