Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 – High-Resolution Streaming DAC for a New Generation Familiar Design, New Experience With over four years of audio engineering expertise and research, Matrix Audio proudly introduces the X-SABRE 3, the next evolution in the acclaimed X-SABRE line-up. This flagship digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) features a new chassis, advanced user interface, and upgraded sonic performance. More than just a DAC, the X-SABRE 3 is now a fully network-capable streaming host, bringing high-resolution audio streaming to your Hi-Fi system with unmatched precision. High-Resolution Streaming for Hi-Fi Systems The X-SABRE 3 streaming DAC is designed to integrate seamlessly with traditional Hi-Fi stereo and headphone systems, thanks to its versatile digital inputs: USB, coaxial, Toslink, and IIS-LVDS. By combining streaming and DAC functionality in one device, it offers a streamlined solution for audiophiles seeking uncompromised playback. Through the MA Remote App, you can easily configure settings, browse music, and enjoy bit-perfect high-resolution playback. Every detail of your music is delivered with stunning clarity, ensuring a true audiophile-grade listening experience. Precision Engineering and Refined Aesthetics The X-SABRE 3 is not simply a refresh but a complete redesign. The chassis is 10mm wider and 2mm slimmer, creating a sleek and modern profile without compromising on durability. Its internal circuitry has been re-engineered to deliver maximum performance while maintaining Matrix Audio’s signature design language. Innovation Meets Usability Equipped with a high-resolution LCD display, the X-SABRE 3 offers clear status updates and displays album artwork during playback. This modern, intuitive interface enhances usability while complementing today’s streaming-first approach to music listening. MA Remote App – Full Control at Your Fingertips The MA Remote App transforms your smartphone or tablet into the ultimate control hub. Available for iOS and Android, it allows you to: Stream from services such as TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, SONY Select, QQ Music, Baidu Cloud Listen to online radio stations Control playback from Roon, UPnP, or DLNA applications Configure hardware settings directly from the app This makes the X-SABRE 3 not just a DAC, but a versatile high-resolution music streamer. Seamless Local and Online Music Streaming Roon Ready: Certified for Roon, delivering bit-perfect audio with effortless configuration. UPnP/DLNA Support: Stream your local music library at its native sampling rate. TIDAL Connect & Spotify Connect: Stream directly from your favourite apps with lossless playback. AirPlay Support: Instant compatibility with Apple devices for wireless streaming. Advanced Connectivity and Stability Hidden beneath its tempered glass top, the X-SABRE 3 houses dual-band Wi-Fi antennas (2.4GHz & 5GHz) for strong wireless performance. For areas with weaker Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet ensures stable, uninterrupted playback, even at high sampling rates. Professional-Grade Clocking: Sync & Async Modes The X-SABRE 3 features a Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock for precise timing. Async Mode: Prioritises the internal femtosecond clock for maximum accuracy. Sync Mode: Relies on the source device’s clock when required. This flexibility ensures perfect synchronisation across different playback scenarios. Smart Trigger and Automation Thanks to its 12V trigger port, the X-SABRE 3 can automatically power on or off connected amplifiers when it enters standby mode, making it a smarter centrepiece for your Hi-Fi system. Fully Isolated Circuitry for Pure Sound To achieve its reference-grade performance, Matrix Audio has isolated the power supply, digital, and analogue circuits into separate chambers. This eliminates electrical noise and interference, ensuring clean, transparent audio reproduction worthy of a flagship DAC. Specifications Category Specification Hardware Platform CPU: NXP i.MX 6Quad, 4× Cortex-A9 @ 1.2 GHzD/A Chip: ES9038PROClock Source: Crystek CCHD-950 Digital Input Coaxial & Optical (PCM): 16–24 Bit / 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHzCoaxial & Optical (DSD DoP): 2.8 MHzIIS LVDS (PCM): 16–32 Bit / 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384, 705.6, 768 kHzIIS LVDS (DSD DoP): 2.8, 5.6, 11.2 MHzIIS LVDS (DSD Native): 2.8, 5.6, 11.2, 22.4 MHzUSB Audio (PCM): 16–24 Bit / 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384, 705.6, 768 kHzUSB Audio (MQA/MQA Studio Stream): 16–24 Bit / 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHzUSB Audio (DSD DoP): 2.8, 5.6, 11.2 MHzUSB Audio (DSD Native): 2.8, 5.6, 11.2, 22.4 MHz Line Output – XLR SNR: 134 dB (A-weighted)THD+N:
