Questyle
Questyle CMA18 Portable DAC and Headphone Amp - Clearance
Questyle CMA18 Portable DAC and Headphone Amp - Clearance
Questyle CMA18 Portable DAC and Headphone Amp - Clearance
Description
Questyle CMA18 Portable DAC and Amplifier
The Questyle CMA18 Portable brings the sonic character and technical performance of Questyle’s flagship desktop products into a compact, battery powered design. Built to serve as both a high end portable DAC and a flexible recording interface, the CMA18 Portable delivers reference level sound whether connected to a smartphone, laptop, or full HiFi system.
Design and Craftsmanship
The CMA18 Portable is crafted from sandblasted aviation grade aluminum with high gloss accents and Corning glass panels on both the front and back. A subtle gradient dot pattern and RF suppression coating enhance both durability and visual appeal. Internal amber LEDs visible through the glass provide real time status indicators while reinforcing the premium industrial design.
Desktop Class Performance
At the core of the CMA18 Portable are four sets of Questyle’s patented current mode pCT SiP amplification chips. Each delivers high current output with excellent efficiency, allowing the CMA18 to drive demanding over ear headphones while maintaining low distortion and noise. High and low gain modes provide flexibility across a wide range of headphones and in ear monitors.
Advanced Digital Processing
The CMA18 Portable uses the XMOS XU316 platform paired with the AK4493 DAC to support high resolution playback up to PCM 768kHz at 32 bit and native DSD512. Bluetooth input supports LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC, allowing high quality wireless playback alongside wired digital inputs.
Analog Input and Recording Capability
In addition to digital playback, the CMA18 Portable includes both 3.5mm and 4.4mm analog line inputs. These allow the unit to function as a high performance analog to digital recording interface for turntables, preamps, mixing consoles, and other analog sources. Live monitoring is supported through both headphone outputs during recording.
Expandability and System Integration
With its wide range of digital and analog inputs and outputs, the CMA18 Portable can serve as the centerpiece of a portable or desktop HiFi system. It can connect directly to powered speakers, amplifiers, or recording equipment, making it suitable for audiophiles and music production professionals alike.
Technical Specifications
| DAC Chip | AK4493 |
| Digital Processing | XMOS XU316 |
| USB Playback | PCM up to 768kHz 32 bit, DSD512 Native |
| USB Recording | 48kHz 32 bit stereo |
| Digital Inputs | USB-C, Optical TOSLink, Bluetooth |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| Analog Inputs | 3.5mm stereo line in, 4.4mm balanced line in |
| Headphone Outputs | 3.5mm single ended, 4.4mm balanced |
| Maximum Output Power | 1000mW at 32 ohms balanced |
| THD+N | <0.0003 percent at 20mW 300 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | >120dB |
| Battery Life | Over 10 hours playback |
| Charging Time | Approximately 3.5 hours |
What’s in the Box
- Questyle CMA18 Portable DAC and amplifier
- Charging cable
- USB-C to USB-C OTG cable
- USB-C to Lightning OTG cable
- Quick start guide
- Warranty card
FAQ
Can the CMA18 Portable drive full size headphones?
Yes. With up to 1000mW of balanced output power and Questyle’s current mode amplification, it can drive many full size dynamic and planar magnetic headphones.
Does it support Bluetooth audio?
Yes. Bluetooth input supports LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC for high quality wireless playback.
Can it be used as a recording interface?
Yes. The CMA18 Portable supports analog to digital recording through its 3.5mm and 4.4mm line inputs with live monitoring.
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