DACs have always been a prominent part of the Musical Fidelity line of devices, and the MX-DAC is the latest update to the line. The specifications of the device are unusual for this company. This is the first USB DAC device from Musical Fidelity that supports DSD, in this case up to DSD128.
In terms of functionality, the Musical Fidelity MX-DAC is one of the least equipped models, but it is hardly minimalist. The device has 5 digital inputs, including a pair of coaxial, two optical and, naturally, USB-B. This DAC does not have a volume control, but it does have both XLR and RCA inputs on board, as well as a digital filter settings switch, allowing you to adjust the system to your personal taste.
If you prefer detailed visual information, the Musical Fidelity MX-DAC is for you. This unit displays input, filter settings, sample rate, etc. using a simple but effective system of LED indicators. Where MF’s designers have really succeeded is in ergonomics. Despite the fact that the MX-DAC’s display provides a lot of information, the unit still looks laconic and elegant. In fact, this unit is one of the most pleasing to the eye in the test. The impression is slightly spoiled by the external power supply, but at least it is quiet in operation.
The unit from Musical Fidelity has a two-mode digital filter system, the first filter option was chosen for blind listening. The difference in sound between the two filter positions is not that huge, but in the first position the Musical Fidelity MX-DAC sounds more detailed, while in the second position the unit produces a softer sound, with some loss of attack and exaltation of playback. In normal use, you will always have the option to choose between two filter positions, depending on the music you are listening to.
The Musical Fidelity MX-DAC has no problem playing DSD material, and even when switching sample rates, you won’t hear any dropouts or extraneous noise. Both coaxial and optical connections are seamless. The device also has RCA/XLR outputs, which is important considering that many amplifiers sound best when connected to a DAC in a balanced manner.
During the test, the Musical Fidelity MX-DAC divided the audience in terms of its perception. All three listeners noted that the device has the brightest sound character of the six devices in the test, but only one considered this a problem. The upper frequency range is very detailed. Vocal parts in all test tracks sound very clear and realistic.
The DAC did not show its best side when listening to The Police. One listener rated the device’s sound as sharp, while the others considered it not too noticeable against the background of the other models in the test. When listening to other, higher quality recorded tracks, there was a feeling of insufficient depth of the scene during playback in comparison with other DACs.
However, the unit has no issues with low frequency reproduction. Where it counts, the low end is bright and dynamic. One listener noted a lack of musical involvement with this DAC, while others found the MX-DAC’s sound character to be full and lively on most recordings. For example, with a string ensemble playing Largo, the instrument character was precise in the upper range, and full of life and energy throughout the rest of the spectrum.
While the MX-DAC has its weaknesses, with a little attention to system design, it’s a great value for the money for the music it reproduces. Thanks to the quality of its design and build, it’s a very impressive DAC that can handle a wide range of material, even if there are models in the test that are even more versatile.
Musical Fidelity MX-DAC Specifications
Bit Rate and Sampling Rate: 32-bit/192kHz
Audio DAC: Multi-bit Sigma-Delta
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.002%
Frequency Response (PCM/DSD): 2Hz-90,000Hz/2Hz-40,000Hz
Inputs: 2 optical (up to 24-bit/96kHz), 2 coaxial (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and asynchronous USB (up to 24-bit/192kHz), DSD 64kHz and 128kHz
Outputs: Linear RCA, balanced XLR
Maximum Power Consumption: <1W max, <0.25W standby
Dimensions (WxHxD): 220x53x215mm
Weight: 1.9kg
