Introducing the new Bryston BDA-3.14 Streamer DAC. Now with streaming capability with the same great DAC you know from the BDP-3, this new flagship can do it all. Check out more details... [read more]
Introducing the Bryston BDA-3.14 Streaming DAC
A New Flagship with New Features
3.14? It seems like a strange step up for a new flagship model. However, when you realize that it's in fact a combination of the BDA-3 DAC combined with the internals of the BDP-Pi, the 3.14 designation makes sense.
This new flagship adds streaming capabilities to the BDA-3 DAC with a few more tricks up it's sleeve. The BDA-3.14 Streaming DAC is based on a built-in music player that provides access to NAS storage, USB devices and internet radio as well as hi-res streaming services such as Qobuz and Tidal. It’s also Roon compatible and, naturally for a Bryston DAC, has a plethora of digital connections: four 2-channel HDMI, asynchronous USB, optical and coaxial.
Below is more information on the Bryston BDA-3.14 Streaming DAC:
Overview
The BDA-3.14 offers streaming capability via a built-in music player that delivers access to network-connected storage and USB drives as well as streaming services such as Qobuz, Tidal, Roon and Internet radio. Digital connectivity between the internal music player and the DAC is managed using the I2S protocol, a premium interface standard used for connecting digital audio devices together that preserves audio and clock data with virtually zero error. The BDA-3.14 also features a digital volume control, enabling users to drive an amplifier directly. An updated version of Bryston’s Manic Moose user interface for phones, tablets and computers provides users with intuitive control overall functionality.
Bryston DAC Technology
The multi-award-winning BDA-3 DAC can decode up to 384 kHz/32-bit PCM music and up to DSDx4 natively. Each format is processed in its native resolution, preserving absolute bit-perfect signals all the way to the analog outputs. Additionally, Bryston’s ultra-precise re-clocking circuit reduces jitter to nearly unmeasurable levels. Bryston’s proprietary analog section is completely free of integrated circuits (ICs) that limit the bandwidth and dynamic range of so many competitive DACs. For maximum flexibility, the BDA-3 has an astonishing ten discrete inputs including four 2-channel HDMI, asynchronous USB, AES/EBU, TOSLINK, and digital coax. It also includes Bryston’s network module, which facilitates control via TCP/IP and RS-232—a must for integration with modern smart home platforms.
"If I explain that the BDA-3.14 contains the BDA-3 DAC as well as the contents of the BDP-Pi, can you guess what inspired the model number? Indeed, it’s mathematical constant Pi! Containing the contents and functionality of these two boxes in one for only 430 euros more than the basic BDA-3 DAC is a very good offer. The streaming component is not just slapped on either but properly connected via I2S which is the best possible connection."
Cristiaan Punter, Hifi-Advice.com | February 1, 2020
What Listeners Have Been Asking For
Everyone knows Bryston makes great digital audio players, DACs, and preamplifiers. With the launch of the BDA-3.14, you can have a full digital front-end, all-in-one unit for amazing sound at a drastically lower price. For just $400 more you get all of the features of the BDA-3 plus streaming with built-in Raspberry Pi. The BDA-3.14 runs a modified version of Manic Moose software compatible with Qobuz, Tidal, Roon, and more - plus NAS connectivity, Internet Radio, and you can still connect local drives with loaded music.
- The BDA-3.14 includes a remote control that will be in stock later this year. If they are not yet available when you order you will receive it separately once they arrive.
Specifications
Main Features
- Dual 32Bit AKM DAC IC's
- Discrete Class A analog output stage
- Independent analog and digital signal paths
- Independent power supplies
- Massive support for different PCM and DSD resolutions
- HDMI video pass-through with audio out (4K video pass-through)
Inputs:
- 4x HDMI
- 2x USB 2.0 Type B
- 2x S/PDIF (1x BNC, 1x RCA)
- 1x Optical (TOSLINK)
- 1x AES/EBU
Outputs:
- HDMI
- RCA
- XLR Control: TCP/IP, IR, DC, RS-232
"I've already purchased the review sample as my new reference."
Karl Schuster, The Absolute Sound | October 23, 2017
Related Products
If you have any questions about the Bryston BDA-3.14 Streamer DAC, please leave a comment below. Happy listening!
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