The Reference DAC
Setting the reference for Digital to Analog Converters.

Four Hybrid DACs

The Reference DAC is equipped with MSB’s new Hybrid DAC technology.  Originated in the Select DAC, we’ve pushed the technology further, making it more compact and robust and above all – affordable.  Unlike the Select’s eight-module design, the Reference DAC only needs four modules to anchor eight high-powered channels for an unrivaled output.  The Hybrid module can be reconfigured to accommodate PCM or native DSD, ensuring it’s the most dynamic DAC on the market.


 

Simplicity

Smooth chassis lines. Few controls. Focused modularity. High-end quality. As we set out to create a new level of digital-to-analog conversion, our design statement ensured the best usability and quality. The resulting product has set a new, previously undiscovered reference in the listening experience.

 

A display for the listening chair

Designed with an easy-to-read display, our discrete LED installation is both stunning and practical. Our display is big enough that you can stay seated in your chair. No standing necessary – sit back and become immersed.

Designed in-house from the ground up, the display is assembled in its own CNC pocket in the uni-body, separate from the DAC. Along with targeted electrical isolation, the LED display is refreshed in between data points to reduce noise interference.

 

The Dual Powerbase

You can’t underestimate the importance of a clean power supply. A re-imagined design paired with the DAC reduces the noise floor even further. We’ve equipped the DAC with a single supply for the digital side of the DAC, along with an isolated supply for the analog side, yielding an unprecedented level of performance.


 

Completely modular

Our modular design encourages innovation. The DAC modules, clock, input and output modules are all user-replaceable. As these technologies change, we’ll update your DAC to keep it current and operational.




(Reference DAC base configuration shown)

Engaging with the Future

MSB is constantly developing new input modules for every application and technology.  With the release of MQA, MSB has prepared a new module and a streamlined software update. This augments your DAC with the most up to date technologies.  Put simply, your DAC is ready for the future.


 

The last preamp you will ever need

Upgrading from the Base Output Module will give you a cutting edge constant impedance passive volume control preamp.  Using this remarkable preamp will reduce system complexity and ultimately improve the audio quality of your entire system.  It’s a remarkable feat of electrical design that sets a new benchmark in the industry. The output modules are individually tuned for maximum quality balance or single-ended audio.

Even without the upgraded preamp module, the DAC still has built in volume control.

 

Expand your analog audio

With sideways expansion, the preamp can accommodate additional analog inputs, isolated sub outputs, and extra analog outputs.

CNC Billet chassis

Starting with an 65lb plate of ‘Kaiser Select Precision Plate’, material is machined in our own in-house CNC shop. After more than four hours of machining, 60% of the aluminum is removed, resulting in a 18lb finished product. The integration of our CNC shop allows for design optimization to create the best possible product. We use the high quality premium ‘Select’ metal, giving us the best anodized finishes on the market.