SMSL M400
Desktop MQA DAC
The SMSL M400 DAC features balanced XLR and traditional RCA outputs and uses high-quality components such as the AKM AK4499 DAC chip, XMOS U216 USB interface, and supports playback of MQA encoded audio formats.
AKM AK4499 DAC CHIP
The M400 uses the high performance AK4499 DAC chip. This is currently the best performing type in AKM's range, contributing greatly to the unit's impressive 131dB signal-to-noise ratio and -124dB distortion, as well as supporting high sample rates up to 768kHz/32bit PCM and native DSD512 resolution.
FULL MQA DECODING
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning UK technology for restoring the sound of the original recording. MQA Master files are authenticated by performing artists, producers and rights holders. The resulting files are small enough to be conveniently streamed or downloaded. The M400 D/A converter also includes an MQA decoder, so you can play back programmes encoded in this way with the best possible sound quality. (MQA decoding is only available via the USB input.)
XMOS XU216 USB INTERFACE
The USB input circuitry of the M400 converter is based on an XU216 32bit XMOS interface, with a custom driver. This ensures detailed and high quality playback while supporting high sampling rates.
ACCUSILICON CLOCK SIGNAL GENERATOR
The M400's digital units are driven by an extremely high precision and ultra-low noise Accusilicon clock generator to ensure the most accurate sound. These ultra-low phase noise (<90dBc @ 10Hz) crystal oscillators are commonly used in professional recording equipment.
DIGITAL FILTERS
The SMSL M500 converter offers a choice of 7 digital filters for PCM sources, allowing the sound to be tailored to the listener's individual needs.
Fast linear
Slow linear
Apodizing
Fast minimum
Slow minimum
Fast hybrid
Brick wall
DISPLAY AND HOUSING
The SMSL M400 is equipped with a high brightness colour display on the front panel, showing all the information related to the current playback, such as volume level, active input, signal stream format and sample rate of the processed material. The components are housed in a robust, CNC machined anodised aluminium casing. The unit is also equipped with an infrared remote control for easy remote control.
FULL CONNECTION
On the connectivity side, the SMSL M400 is extremely well equipped, with optical and coaxial SPDIF, USB-B input with excellent XMOS U216 interface, I2S digital inputs on HDMI connection, but also capable of receiving bluetooth streams, supporting the best audio protocols available today: UAT, LDAC, apt-X HD, SBC, AAC, with up to 192kHz/24bit wireless transmission. The device has a balanced stereo XLR output and a conventional stereo RCA output, which can be used in parallel.
