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After years of patient research and development, we are
proud to launch our MX-DAC with DSD. With its technical innovation, superb
technical performance and excellent build quality, the new MX DAC offers truly
outstanding value for money.
The MX-DAC is a tremendous performer. It has ultra low
distortion, very wide bandwidth and low noise. The technical performance of the
MX-DAC is on a par with any other DAC at any price. Jitter is about 12pps, s/n
ratio is -116dB (‘A’ weighted), linearity is +0.2dB at -116dB, stereo
separation is -104dB at 1kHz, frequency response is ruler flat and distortion
is 0.00025% at 1kHz and 0.0003% at 20kHz. These technical figures are
state-of-the-art and show that our implementation is almost perfect, to ensure
completely neutral and accurate digital-to-analogue conversion of any digital
input.
The MX DAC has inputs for: 2 x coax (up to 24bit 192 kHz
PCM), 2 x optical (up to 24bit 192kHz PCM) and asynchronous USB up to 24bit 192
kHz PCM as well as DSD 64 and DSD 128.
Also, all inputs whether from coax, optical or USB, are
processed in the DSD domain. This desirable feature gives a warmth and humanity
to the sound that simple digital conversion doesn’t achieve.
The MX DAC has both single ended and balanced outputs.
The new MX range has beautiful aesthetics and wonderful
build quality. The front panel and housing are both from exclusive custom-made
extrusions using mil-spec aluminium.
MX-DAC in brief
• Superlative
state of the art performance with ultra-flat frequency response
• Able
to process DSD64 and DSD128 formats as well as PCM up to 192kHz / 24bit
• Multiple
digital inputs – 2 x coax, 2 x optical, and asynchronous USB
• All
inputs processed and converted in DSD domain
• Very
low noise
• Extremely
low distortion
• Outstanding
linearity
• Outstanding
channel separation
• Beautiful
aesthetics and build quality
At $500 with unknown condition, this MX-DAC looks like a solid bargain if it's in good shape—typical used market pricing hovers around $400-700 for clean examples, depending on accessories and age. These mid-2010s units originally retailed near $1000, and solid performers like this Burr-Brown PCM1795-based DAC hold value well among enthusiasts chasing neutral, low-distortion sound without breaking the bank.
Before biting, verify the USB input's async DSD64/128 functionality with your source—early driver quirks or capacitor age can glitch high-res playback—and insist on the original 5V wall wart power supply, manual, and Windows driver CD, as missing bits tank usability. Probe for any remote control too, though it's optional. Pop it open if possible to eye the board for dust or swollen caps.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Musical Fidelity, a British hi-fi icon, traces its roots to 1982 when clarinettist and audio enthusiast Antony Michaelson founded the company in London. Disillusioned with the sound quality of existing gear after his stint at predecessor Michaelson & Austin, he handcrafted his debut product—a minimalist preamplifier dubbed "The Preamp"—on his kitchen table. Paired with the quirky Dr. Thomas power amplifier, these designs disrupted the market with their bold aesthetics and sonic punch, establishing Michaelson’s experimental ethos from the outset.
The brand has long centered on amplifiers as its cornerstone, spanning integrated, power, phono, headphone, and preamp models renowned for Class-AB topology and innovative touches like Nuvistor tubes. It expanded into streaming players, DACs, CD players, Bluetooth receivers, all-in-one systems, and even headphones and turntables, always prioritizing musicality over convention. Unconventional industrial designs, from curved heatsinks to sculptural panels, became signatures, influencing competitors.
Positioned firmly in the high-end arena, Musical Fidelity commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its value-driven performance and soulful sound. Iconic models like the A1 and F-series endure as collector favorites, blending accessibility with premium engineering. Acquired by Austria’s Audio Tuning in 2018, it continues evolving under new stewardship while honoring its heritage as a boutique force in British hi-fi.
See all Musical Fidelity listings on RADAR.
