S.M.S.L RAW MDA1 Dual ES9039Q2M Decoder Support MQA MQA-CD LDAC Hi-res DAC with Remote Control

RAW MDA1 DAC/Amp Review

Overview

The RAW MDA1 is a high-performance digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and amplifier that brings professional audio quality to your home setup. Equipped with advanced features including Bluetooth connectivity and dual ESS decoding, it promises to enhance your listening experience significantly.

Key Features

• Qualcomm Bluetooth Chip: Supports LDAC 24bit/96kHz, APTX/HD, SBC, and AAC for superior wireless audio quality.
• XMOS XU-316 USB Interface: Delivers real 32-bit audio processing and supports DSD formats.
• Flexible USB Modes: Switch between USB1.1 for up to 96kHz and USB2.0 for high-resolution 768kHz/32bit processing with driver installation.

Specifications

• Input: USB, Optical x2, Coaxial x2, Bluetooth
• Output: RCA, XLR, Headphone
• THD+N: 0.00005% (-124.5dB non-weighting)
• Dynamic Range: XLR—132dB, RCA—127dB, Headphone—122dB
• Power Consumption: <30W, Standby Power: <0.5W

Performance

The MDA1 impresses with its audio clarity and power delivery. It offers a headphone output power of 2.5W for 16Ω and 1.7W for 32Ω, ensuring compatibility with a variety of headphones. Users appreciate its clean sound, although some have reported that it may not provide enough power for hard-to-drive models.

User Feedback

Many customers have praised the RAW MDA1 for its exceptional audio quality, highlighting its headphone amplifier capabilities. However, feedback on Bluetooth functionality is mixed, with some experiencing disconnection issues.

Dimensions

Product dimensions are 7.05 x 7.05 x 0.1 inches, making it compact yet robust for various setups.

Conclusion

The RAW MDA1 is a versatile and high-quality DAC/amp suited for audiophiles seeking enhanced sound. Despite some minor drawbacks in power and connectivity, it stands out due to its advanced features and overall audio performance.