RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
Description:The new M-DAC+ is a high-performance, multi-purpose audio DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) for home use, designed to sit on a desk or table, or integrate into a hi-fi system. It incorporates a highly specified, audiophile-quality digital preamplifier and Class A output stage for connection to a power amp and speakers (the output can be fixed for those who wish to use an existing preamp or integrated amp), in addition to a high-quality output for headphone use.Redefining a ClassicThe new M-DAC+ is based firmly on the classic M-DAC, with carefully targeted improvements in key areas – a logical move, given the original model’s sustained popularity over the last four years. The M-DAC built a peerless reputation with press and public alike since its launch in the autumn of 2011, scooping multiple Product of the Year Awards from the likes of What Hi-Fi?, Hi-Fi Choice and EISA to make it arguably the most critically acclaimed DAC component ever made. “The audiolab M-DAC+ gets an awful lot right – so much, in fact, it comfortably justifies its ‘+’ designation”. ~ What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision, June 2016.The Finest DAC CircuitryLike the M-DAC, the M-DAC+ incorporates the ES9018 Sabre Reference 32-bit DAC chipset, still widely regarded as the finest available. This is surrounded by exceptionally well-specified circuitry that puts other similarly priced DACs to shame, including a proprietary, discrete master clock to minimise jitter, coupled with extensive time domain isolation. A JFET Class A output stage ensures that the audio signal, following conversion from the digital domain to analogue, is of the highest quality.High Performance with DSDUnder the hood lie a number of performance-related enhancements. The M-DAC+ now processes audio data up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB; this is a far higher specification than that required by current hi-res music formats, ensuring this new, premium-quality addition to the M-DAC family is fully equipped for future advances in ultra-high-definition digital sound.Pictured with 8300A Integrated amplifier.The USB input now also accepts DSD files (the digital audio system originally developed for Super Audio CD), offering compatibility with DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256. This is a significant addition, as DSD has an important role to play in the developing high-resolution digital download scene.Specifications: ModelM-DAC+General descriptionDigital-to-Analogue ConverterDACESS Sabre32 9018 chipSampling Rate24-bit / 192kHz (Optical, Coaxial, AES)32-bit / 384kHz (USB)2.8MHz (DSD64), 5.6MHz (DSD128), 11.2MHz (DSD256) Digital Input2 x Coaxial, 2 x Toslink Optical, 1 x AES/EBU, 1 x USB for PC USB, 1x USB for iPod/iPhone/iPadDigital Output1x Coaxial, 1 x Toslink OpticalOutput VoltageBalanced: 4.5V RMSUnbalanced: 2.25V RMS Output ImpedanceBalanced: 20ΩUnbalanced: 10Ω THD (1kHz 0dB 20Hz - 20kHz A wtd)<0.002%Frequency Response20Hz - 20kHz (± 0.2dB)Signal to Noise RatioRCA: > -115dB, XLR: > -120dBDynamic RangeRCA: > 115dB, XLR: > 120dBCrosstalkRCA: > 120dB, XLR: > 130dBDimensions (mm)114mm x 247mm x 292mmNet Weight3.7kg
Generating expert take…
Audiolab emerged from the frustration of two Imperial College students, Philip Swift and Derek Scotland, who in 1983 founded the brand in Britain to deliver high-quality hi-fi without exorbitant prices or needless complexity. Their debut 8000A integrated amplifier swiftly became a benchmark, praised for its robust build, transparent sound, and minimalist design that prioritized musical purity over gimmicks. This origin story rooted Audiolab in a philosophy of accessible excellence, evolving from kitchen prototypes to a lineup of landmark components like the 8000S preamp, 8000T tuner, and 8000M monoblocs.
The brand focuses on core hi-fi categories, excelling in integrated and power amplifiers, preamplifiers, DACs, CD players, tuners, and phono stages, with forays into AV processors and multi-channel amps during its TAG McLaren era from 1997 to 2004. Since joining the International Audio Group in 2004, Audiolab has refined its no-nonsense aesthetic while expanding to modern streaming and digital sources, always emphasizing engineering that extracts maximum performance from any system.
Audiolab holds a solid mid-tier position in the hi-fi market, renowned among discerning buyers for exceptional value—delivering near-high-end sound quality at approachable prices. It appeals to purists seeking reliable, unadorned British engineering rather than boutique exotica or vintage collectibles, maintaining a loyal following for its enduring reputation in straightforward, music-first performance.
See all Audiolab listings on RADAR.
