Bryston
BDA-3 External DAC
$3,395.00 USDFeatures
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)
Warranty
Bryston BDA-3 Digital to Analog Converter
Audiophiles often seek 'giant killer' components—rare pieces of equipment that exceed expectations. The Bryston BDA-3 is one of these rare finds. This extraordinarily well-engineered DAC is compatible with virtually any digital source component and boasts performance measurements near the theoretical limits of the digital audio streams it decodes. The BDA-3 resolves the finest details in digital recordings with remarkable clarity, ensuring every nuance is heard. Beyond its superb measured performance, it offers intuitive operation and exceptional sound quality, making it a joy to use and listen to. Regardless of your digital audio budget, the BDA-3 should be on your short list.
The Bryston BDA-3 is a world-class hi-fi DAC packed with a perfect mix of features, making it an essential part of any digital audio chain. As Bryston's highest-resolution DAC to date, it adds DSD playback to its repertoire, enhancing its versatility. With the BDA-3, you can use diverse audio sources such as Bryston's BDP digital music players, computers, music servers, and CD players to achieve the most accurate and superb-sounding digital playback currently available. The BDA-3 is designed for systems where high performance is desired, delivering an unparalleled audio experience.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the Bryston BDA-3 External DAC with the Silver Dragon Interconnect. Sold in Pairs, the Silver Dragon V2 is our top-of-the-line silver conductor-based interconnect. With a braided geometry and amazing shielding, this interconnect is a remarkable solution where noise isolation is key. Get the best cables for your best audio gear.
Premium Digital-to-Analog Conversion
The Bryston BDA-3 delivers superb sonic performance through precise re-sampling and re-clocking of the digital input signal. With the exception of user-selectable up-sampling, the BDA-3 maintains the integrity of the original format, ensuring that no conversion occurs at a non-native rate. This meticulous attention to detail preserves the purity of the audio, providing an unparalleled listening experience.
A significant advancement from the BDA-2, the BDA-3 not only supports PCM playback at resolutions up to 384kHz/32-bit but also introduces full DSD capability. The BDA-3 can decode up to DSD-256 through its asynchronous USB inputs and accepts SACD input via HDMI. This wide compatibility with high-resolution formats makes it a versatile addition to any audiophile's setup.
The BDA-3 is equipped with 10 separate inputs, providing extensive connectivity options:
- Four 2-channel HDMI inputs: For connecting modern digital sources, including SACD players.
- Asynchronous USB input: For high-resolution audio playback from computers and other digital sources.
- AES/EBU input: Professional-grade connection for high-quality audio transfer.
- TOSLINK and digital coax inputs: For additional digital source compatibility.
In addition to its extensive input options, the BDA-3 features a network module that facilitates control via TCP/IP and RS-232, making it an ideal component for modern home automation systems. This integration capability ensures that the BDA-3 can seamlessly fit into a sophisticated audio setup, offering both outstanding performance and convenience.
Key features of the Bryston BDA-3 include:
- High-Resolution Audio Support: Capable of playing PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit and DSD up to DSD-256.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Includes HDMI, USB, AES/EBU, TOSLINK, and digital coax inputs.
- Advanced Control Options: Network module for TCP/IP and RS-232 control, ideal for home automation.
- User-Selectable Up-Sampling: Offers flexibility for audiophiles to customize their listening experience.
- Precision Re-Sampling and Re-Clocking: Ensures the highest fidelity in digital audio playback.
The Bryston BDA-3 is designed for audiophiles seeking the ultimate in digital audio performance. With its high-resolution support, extensive connectivity, and advanced control options, it stands out as a top-tier DAC that delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility.
"I've already purchased the review sample as my new reference."
- Karl Schuster, The Absolute Sound | October 23, 2017
“With its extremely low levels of noise, harmonic and intermodulation distortion, and its superb resolution, the Bryston BDA-3 offers measured performance that is as good as digital can get.”
- John Atkinson, Stereophile | Nov. 2016
"The Bryston BDA-3 digs out all the information there is, from broad strokes to nuance, and arranges it all perfectly for consumption."
- Carlo Lo Raso, Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity | Jan. 2018
About Bryston Amps and Speakers:
Bryston is a leading manufacturer of high-performance audio equipment based in Ontario, Canada, renowned for its powerful and accurate amplifiers and speakers that deliver stunning sound quality. They have been designing and manufacturing state-of-the-art electronics for consumer and audio professional markets for more than 50 years. Since the debut of its first amplifier in 1973, Bryston has grown its product line to encompass a range of world-renowned Amplifiers, Loudspeakers, and Digital Audio Components. Each of Bryston's hand-assembled products is extensively tested before shipment. From their state-of-the-art solid-state amplifiers to innovative products like the Bryston 4B, BDA-3.14, BDP series, Cubed series, and the legendary Bryston 20, their amplifiers, phono preamplifiers, conditioners, and stereo power amplifiers are engineered to extract every nuance from audio sources, revealing details and dynamics that other amplifiers struggle to reproduce. Bryston's extensive lineup of amplifiers spans from compact powerhouses to massively powerful monoblock amplifiers designed to drive the most demanding speakers and subwoofers. Their amplifiers are revered for their ability to deliver a stunningly realistic and immersive soundstage with thunderous dynamics and jaw-dropping accuracy.
From their state-of-the-art solid-state power amps and headphone amplifiers (BHA-1) to innovative products like the Bryston 4B, BDA-3.14, Cubed series, and the legendary Bryston 20, their amplifiers, phono preamplifiers, conditioners, and stereo power amplifiers are engineered to extract every nuance from audio sources, revealing details and dynamics that other amplifiers struggle to reproduce. Bryston's extensive lineup of amplifiers spans from compact powerhouses to massively powerful monoblock amplifiers designed to drive the most demanding speakers and subwoofers. Their amplifiers are revered for their ability to deliver a stunningly realistic and immersive soundstage with thunderous dynamics and jaw-dropping accuracy.
Beyond just sheer power, Bryston's amplifiers (like the Bryston BP series and the Bryston 3B) are engineered with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and innovative features that elevate audio quality and performance to new heights. From warm, natural soundstages to precise imaging and crystal-clear clarity, Bryston amplifiers provide an unparalleled listening experience. Bryston's flagship amplifiers, like the mighty 28XO, showcase the company's dedication to crafting products that push the boundaries of audio fidelity. These behemoths are purpose-built to unleash the full potential of high-resolution audio sources, unveiling every intricate detail and nuance with uncompromising accuracy and transparency.
Bryston's top-of-the-line amps and speakers stand as titans of the audio world, delivering ground-shaking power and dynamics that transcend the capabilities of traditional amps and speakers. From studio-grade recordings to heart-pounding cinematic scores, these titans lay bare the true depth and intensity of source material, unveiling details and dynamics that lesser amplifiers would fail to reproduce. Whether concert-level bass and ponderous lows, or staggering transients and searing crescendos, Bryston redefines the limits of what is possible, delivering performance, power, and dynamics that push the boundaries of amplification and loudspeaker tech while defining new standards for what can be achieved. The perfect addition to your high-end DAC, preamp, bookshelf speakers (like the Mini A and Mini T), Bryston loudspeakers, headphone amplifiers, preamps, and more are perfect for any audiophile setup.
Bryston offers an incredible 20-year warranty on its analog audio products and loudspeakers (five years on digital products and cables). Based in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, Bryston products are sold through over 150 dealers in North America and 60 countries worldwide. Discover why Bryston is one of the most venerated high-end audio brands in the world and learn more about the products.
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)
What's in the Box?
- Bryston BDA-3 External DAC
- Power Cable
- Manual and Warranty
FAQ
What is the Bryston BDA-3?
The BDA-3 is Bryston's flagship external DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) designed to deliver exceptional sound quality from digital audio sources.
What digital audio inputs does the BDA-3 support?
The BDA-3 supports a wide range of digital inputs including USB, AES/EBU, SPDIF coaxial, and TOSLINK optical.
What DAC chip does the BDA-3 use?
The BDA-3 utilizes two AKM AK4497 Velvet Sound DAC chips in a mono configuration for independent left and right channel processing.
Does the BDA-3 support hi-res audio formats?
Yes, the BDA-3 can decode hi-res PCM audio up to 32-bit/384kHz as well as native DSD playback up to DSD256.
Can the BDA-3 be used with a computer via USB?
Absolutely, the BDA-3 has a USB input that allows it to be used as an external DAC with computers, laptops, and other USB audio sources.
What outputs does the BDA-3 have?
The BDA-3 has balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs to connect to amplifiers or active speakers.
Does the BDA-3 have a headphone output?
No, the BDA-3 does not have a built-in headphone amplifier. It is designed to connect to an external amplifier or powered speakers.
Can the BDA-3 be upgraded or customized?
While very robust out of the box, the BDA-3 can be customized and upgraded with external linear power supplies like Bryston's BPS-28 to further enhance its performance.
General Features
- Dimensions (17" Faceplate)
- 3.63” H x 17” W x 11.12” D
(92.20mm x 431.8mm x 282.45mm) - Dimensions (19" Faceplate)
- 3.63” H x 19” W x 11.12” D
(92.20mm x 482.6mm x 282.45mm) - Weight
- 8.5 lb/3.9 kg
- Color
- Black or Silver
- Warranty
- 5-Years Parts and Labor*
Technology
- Dual 32Bit AKM DAC ICs
- 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)
Options
- 17” or 19” faceplate
- Rack mount compatible
- BR2 remote control
*Bryston Digital products and cables are warranted for five (5) years from the original date of manufacture. The warranty includes parts and labour. For more information visit Bryston's Warranty page.