Bricasti Design Brand Guide: Premium DACs, Amplifiers & High-End Audio Components
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Engineering Excellence: The Bricasti Design Philosophy
Founded in 2004, Bricasti Design has been crafting high-quality hi-fi audio products for over 20 years, bridging the gap between professional studio engineering and high-end consumer audio. As one of the industry's leading producers of digital reverb processors and converter equipment, Bricasti has gained a reputation for its renowned solid aluminum machining, superb build quality, and unmatched sonic results. With its expansive product collection spanning pro audio and audiophile components, what distinguishes Bricasti from other high-end audio manufacturers is its unique ability to understand both how a signal is recorded in studios and how it should sound in a home listening application. Every component in Bricasti's line is carefully curated and purpose-built to perform to the highest standards, with no compromises made in the relentless pursuit of transparent, revealing sound.
Backed by their exceptional customer service, Bricasti Design delivers top-notch products to recording engineers working with mic preamps, audio professionals running multi-effect processors and plugins, and discerning audiophiles who enjoy pristine data transmission worldwide. Step into the world of Bricasti and discover what happens when technical expertise, musical passion, and uncompromising standards converge.
Bricasti Product Line
Bricasti M5 Network Player
At $2,500, the Bricasti M5 Network Player is a network interface and media renderer that connects directly to your server via a local area network, delivering pristine lossless audio to your digital-to-analog converter. With wide support for DLNA and other popular network protocols, the M5 is the dedicated streaming endpoint that your hi-fi setup is missing. Once connected, the M5 supports sample rates up to 192kHz PCM, DSD 64, and DSD 128 over USB. The M5 is Roon Ready and compatible with popular music management software platforms, including JRiver and Audirvāna, making it an ideal companion for Bricasti DACs or other high-end digital converters.
The M5 is built solidly. The chassis is milled from solid aluminum, featuring rounded corners and a minimalist aesthetic focused on performance over flashy features. Inside the chassis lies the Bricasti media player powered by the same linear power supply as the one found in the Bricasti M1 DAC, delivering superb low performance under the most demanding circumstances. The M5 takes the Network Player experience to the next level, and no add-ons are needed with this unit–it comes complete.
Who is the Bricasti M5 Network Player For? The M5 is ideal for audiophiles who already own a high-quality DAC and want to add network streaming without the expense of replacing their converter or integrating a potentially inferior streamer into their DAC. It's also well-suited for those who appreciate the flexibility and performance of separate-based systems, where each component is optimized for a single purpose rather than multiple functions.
Bricasti M3 DAC or DAC Amplifier
The Bricasti M3 DAC offers an incredible array of performance in a more affordable price class, featuring two fully differential conversion channels, separate conversions for PCM and native DSD, and a balanced analog level control circuit that makes it suitable for all audio applications. Two independent linear power supplies for the analog and digital processing ensure low noise and superior isolation, while the robust CNC-milled aluminum chassis ensures superior thermal characteristics, excellent vibrational damping, and shielding from RF.
The M3 incorporates Bricasti's high-performance MDx Processor and precision DDS clocking that lowers jitter to extremely low levels for a pure signal path without the use of sample rate converters. The unit's high-speed, low-distortion analog path features a bypassable preamp class analog level control that allows the M3 to drive power amps with no bit loss for optimal analog performance.
As a truly versatile component, the M3 DAC is available in multiple variants, including a network player option and a fully differential headphone amplifier option. The M3H DAC Amplifier variant includes a fully balanced headphone amplifier with independent analog amplifiers for the XLR output, generating enough power to drive a variety of high-end headphones. The optional network streaming capability transforms the M3 into a complete digital front-end solution, supporting lossless audio from your network to your DAC. Support for sample rates up to 192kHz PCM, DSD 64, DSD 128, and DSD 256 over USB is achieved, with full Roon Ready certification plus compatibility with JRiver, JPlay, and Audirvana.
Who is the Bricasti M3 DAC or M3H DAC Amplifier For? The Bricasti M3 is ideal for audiophiles seeking Bricasti's renowned sound quality and performance at an accessible price point, headphone enthusiasts who want a fully balanced amp path, and those seeking the flexibility of network streaming without compromise.
Bricasti M19 Reference SACD CD I2S Transport
At $10,000, the Bricasti M19 Reference SACD/CD I2S Transport is simplicity in its finest form. Designed with a singular focus on delivering uncompromising performance, the M19 intentionally avoids features like upsampling, built-in DACs, digital inputs, or USB support that can complicate the signal path and degrade quality. As a result, listeners get a clean and clear rendering of their physical media collection. The M19's power supply design adopts two oversized independent linear power supplies with medical-grade toroidal transformers–one dedicated to powering the drive's mechanical aspects, including the motor drive and loader, and the other for the digital aspects and audio path electronics–supplying stable, high-current power that ensures accurate motor speeds while eliminating any potential crossfeed between the drive and audio path.
The M19's chassis is built from a CNC-machined aluminum with the power supply located in close proximity to the drive and digital output sections. The transport's proprietary I2S digital output, designed exclusively for use with Bricasti DACs, creates the perfect match between devices as though the DAC were part of the M19 itself, yielding a clear performance gain across the entire sound spectrum with added clarity. The I2S interface is now available as an option for all new Bricasti DACs and as an upgrade path for existing customers, while the M19 also features AES and SPDIF outputs for connectivity to other high-end converters.
Who is the Bricasti M19 SACD CD I2S Transport for? This transport is perfect for serious collectors with extensive SACD and CD libraries who refuse to compromise on playback quality yet still want to enjoy their physical media collection. Proper transport design is critical to achieving maximum performance, and the Bricasti M19 delivers the purest possible signal path for incredible sonic results.
Bricasti M11 Series II R2R DAC
At $12,500, the Bricasti M11 Series II R2R DAC features a fully differential R2R Ladder DAC architecture with 20-bit precision resistor-based conversion and dual-mono design, delivering a smooth and natural sound quality without compromise. The same D/A technology found in the flagship Bricasti M21 is featured in the M11 at a fraction of the price. Coupled with the latest proprietary MDx digital platform, clocking algorithms, and filter technology, the M11 Series II delivers exceptional performance without the need for sample rate converters, ensuring signals remain native and true to the source. To round out the digital section, a pristine analog path is implemented to deliver the truest possible representation of tonality, precision, and dimension to your music.
The M11 Series II features a high-performance linear power architecture that enables a clean signal with extremely low noise and ample headroom. Point-to-point wiring and stillpoint isolation integrated directly into the chassis bring new depth, detail, and dimensionality to your music, while improved spatial cues and separation create a truly immersive listening experience. The M11 includes a comprehensive suite of digital inputs such as USB, AES/EBU, coaxial, and optical, along with both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs. The optional network player card provides pristine data transmission over long distances without loss of signal or degradation, with full support for Roon, JRiver, JPlay,and Audirvana.
Who is the Bricasti M11 Series II R2R DAC for? The Bricasti M11 Series II is tailored for audiophiles who prefer the organic, analog-like musicality and superior timing of R2R ladder conversion over delta-sigma designs, as well as those seeking the sonic signature of the M21 at a more attainable price point.
Bricasti M1 Series II DAC
At $12,500, the Bricasti M1 Series II DAC introduces a fresh new approach to Bricasti's renowned M1 product line, drawing upon the company's experience in engineering precision digital-to-analog converters with the audio purist in mind. The M1 Series II features Bricasti's cutting-edge MDx processor and new, higher current twin linear power supplies with larger performance capacitors, all housed in a handcrafted chassis milled from solid aluminum. The high-performance linear power architecture in the M1 Series II allows for a clean signal with extremely low noise and ample headroom, while point-to-point wiring and stillpoint isolation integrated directly into the chassis deliver new depth, detail, and dimensionality to your music with improved spatial cues and separation.
The M1 Series II's MDx digital platform incorporates advanced clocking algorithms and filter technology for exceptional performance without the use of SRC's, so signals stay native. The fully differential design supports multiple digital inputs, including AES/EBU, SPDIF, Toslink, and USB (up to DSD256), with both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs available for seamless system integration. With an optional network player card, the M1 Series II transforms into a media streamer with pristine data transmission over long distances without loss of signal or degradation, and support for Roon, JRiver, JPlay, and Audirvana.
Who is the Bricasti M1 Series II DAC for? The Bricasti M1 Series II DAC is designed for serious audiophiles who demand reference-level digital conversion with great detail retrieval and transparency.
Bricasti M20 Preamplifier
At $12,500, the Bricasti M20 Preamplifier builds on the analog design of the Bricasti M12 to deliver a rich analog experience with fluid, fast, and tonally balanced audio. The M20 features fully differential and independently buffered signal paths for superior isolation and a pure sound, with a proprietary all-discrete resistor ladder attenuator engineered to provide precise volume control while preserving the integrity of the signal. The attenuator employs a discrete ladder of digitally controlled resistors in 1dB steps, utilizing Vishay foil resistors in key locations in the circuit, while PCB materials made from ceramic with excellent dielectric properties for enhanced stability and performance. The proprietary discrete output buffers use an R2R ladder technique for level control, ensuring perfect balance and tonal character at any level with recall, programmable input offset, and remote control capabilities.
At the heart of the M20 is a fully differential dual mono preamp powered by three Class A linear power transformers–one for each of the analog sections and a separate supply for the digital control circuit processor–ensuring isolation from the analog PCB and power supplies. The preamplifier features three separately buffered outputs (two balanced XLR and one unbalanced RCA), making it ideal for bi-amp applications with two balanced outs to drive two power amps or for running two or three zones with all signal switching and hard output mutes done using logic-controlled relays. Input connectivity includes two balanced XLR and one unbalanced RCA, with pre-set channel naming conventions that can be customized through the display's menu, along with fine adjustment of level offset. The rear trigger-out mini-jack can be connected to Bricasti power amplifiers like the M28 or DACs like the M21 to send a 5V DC voltage trigger, enabling synchronized system power control from standby mode. When asking yourself what can the M20 Preamplifier not do, the answer is not much.
Who is the Bricasti M20 Preamplifier for? The Bricasti M20 Preamplifier is ideal for audiophiles building a complete Bricasti system demanding seamless integration and system control, as well as those building a system of separates prioritizing signal purity and transparency in their preamp stage.
Bricasti M28 Monoblock Amplifier
At $14,000, the Bricasti M28 Monoblock Amplifier features a dual-bank power supply with a total of 240,000µF of capacitance and two separate transformer windings, delivering 200 watts into 8 ohms or 400 watts into 4 ohms. This Part-Time Audiophile Editor's Choice Component provides an exceptionally pure and precisely controlled reservoir of current that delivers the massive current required to grab onto and control any speaker through the most demanding musical passages. With a flat response and vanishing distortion, the M28 delivers a fast, articulate, distortion-free low-frequency performance even at the speaker's resonant peak.
A balanced differential structure in the M28 minimizes the stress across each of the amplifier's internal elements, and pairing it with the structure of a Bricasti DAC forms a balanced differential signal flow from source to speaker. The amplifier offers 18dB of stepped attenuated gain adjustment to enable proper level matching with any audio source or listening space, while an RS232 link conveys status information for monitoring a number of system functions. The milled aluminum chassis is carved to exacting measures, with each electronic element placed in a purpose-built location in the chassis. Mass and passive ventilation ensure the uniform distribution of heat and cool touch under any load.
Who is the Bricasti M28 Monoblock Amplifier for? The Bricasti M28 Monoblock Amplifier is designed for the most demanding audiophiles who refuse to compromise on amplification quality and want the ultimate in power delivery and sonic refinement.
Bricasti M15 Stereo Power Amplifier
At $15,000, the Bricasti M15 Stereo Power Amplifier serves as the beating heart of your hi-fi system, delivering heaps of power at critical stages, forging a sonic path of least resistance from the source to the speaker. The M15 delivers 125 watts into 8 ohms, 250 watts into 4 ohms, and 500 watts into 2 ohms, with a fully differential and balanced architecture that makes sure the audio signal remains pristine and symmetrical throughout the amplification process. The M15 is a true reference design in analog power amplification, offering extremely low distortion with moderate power. When combined with the Bricasti M1 DAC or M12 driving the M15, the system achieves a fully differential signal path from the converter to the loudspeaker.
The M15 is robustly constructed of milled and CNC-machined aluminum sections and designed to integrate seamlessly into your existing audio system while allowing for a more compact form factor. The component's unique features, like trim control let you properly gain stage for critical direct digital source amplification. You'll enjoy the same sonic benefits of the M28 with stillpoints isolation designed directly into the feet for excellent vibration control.
Who is the Bricasti M15 Stereo Power Amplifier for? The Bricasti M15 Stereo Power Amplifier is for audiophiles who want the sonic performance and build quality of the M28 Monoblocks in a more space-efficient chassis, as well as those who need transparent, studio-grade amplification that reveals every detail without added coloration.
Bricasti M21 DAC
At $16,000, the Bricasti M21 DAC represents the continued evolution of both the M1 Special Edition and the M12 Dual Mono Source Controller, with advanced architecture that makes it possible to select, evaluate, and enjoy three independent digital-to-analog converter paths: 24-bit delta sigma, 20-bit ladder DAC, and true 1-bit DSD for DSD content. Each of these paths is engineered to create a super-efficient platform for you to enjoy your music and explore the advantages of each conversion method. The M21 houses three DAC sections with completely isolated and fully differential channels, each with its own linear power supply.
The M21 incorporates Bricasti's high-performance MDx Processor and uses precise analog gain control for its execution of direct DSD functionality and driving amplification. Additionally, all digital input types are supported with direct output or hard-wired bypass of the analog attenuation, creating a less resistant output signal path, ideal when paired with Bricasti's M28 and M15 amplifiers. The M21 seamlessly connects to your network, where it is recognized as a DLNA device and transforms into a powerful media renderer offering pristine data transmission over long distances without loss of signal or degradation. With support for Roon, JRiver, JPlay, and Audirvana, plus the optional I2S Digital Interface, the M21 offers incredible flexibility and integration within a complete high-end audio system.
Who is the Bricasti M21 DAC for? The Bricasti M21 DAC is the ultimate choice for audiophiles who want the flexibility to choose between delta-sigma, ladder, and DSD conversion depending on personal preference. With the Bricasti M21, audiophiles are no longer limited by a single conversion approach and can enjoy the best performance from every type of digital file format in their music collection.
About Bricasti Design
A true USA-founded and made company, Bricasti Design is based in Massachusetts, U.S., and founded in 2004 by industry veterans Brian Zolner and Casey Dowdell. The company name has been noted to cleverly combine the first letters of both founders' names, reflecting the truly collaborative spirit between the two. With over 20 years in the hi-fi industry, Bricasti has evolved into one of the top audio manufacturers, yet remains a small, dedicated team of hi-fi experts and skilled engineers committed to pushing the boundaries of audio performance.
Brian Zolner brings over 20 years of experience from his tenure at Lexicon, where he served as Vice President of International Sales before founding Bricasti. Zolner now sits as the CEO and Chief Designer of Bricasti. Casey Dowdell brings deep technical expertise as a former DSP software engineer at Lexicon to Bricasti. Together, the two, alongside Bricasti's carefully selected engineering team, possess years of high-end audio expertise and institutional knowledge.
The Bricasti Process: Each part of Bricasti's product development process is methodical and intentional. The company chooses only the finest components and plans every design stage in painstaking detail, with each design undergoing extensive planning, prototyping, and testing before delivery.
Continuous innovation, exceptional sound, and top-of-the-line performance represent the Bricasti design philosophy, contributing to the company's years of success.
Dragon Cables
There are a lot of reasons why you need to make sure your audio cables are not afterthoughts.
Our HiFi Audio Dragon Cables bring out more of what you love in your music and audio gear. If you love your headphones but wish they had a bit more top-end sparkle - a Silver Dragon Headphone Cable would be a great option. If your USB cables keep dying - as many stock cables do - then check out our quality USB Audio Cables. We say time and time again that materials matter, and our audio cables and custom geometries actually help to bring out those desired properties in your gear and music. We make tons of custom options for our customers so that you can get the right HiFi Audio cable for your exact needs. If you have any questions feel free to Contact Us and we'll be more than happy to help.
Verdict
Whether you're building a complete reference system or adding a single component to elevate your listening experience, Bricasti Design offers a carefully curated path to audio nirvana. From the legendary M7 Reverb that remains the gold standard in recording studios worldwide, to the versatile M3 DAC and M5 Network Player, each Bricasti component delivers a transparent, revealing sound quality. Audiophiles seeking the ultimate in digital conversion can explore the three independent signal paths of the flagship M21 DAC, while those who value organic musicality will find their perfect match in the M11 Series II R2R DAC.
Every Bricasti product is handcrafted in Massachusetts, U.S., designed to last decades with upgradability, and backed by a company philosophy that values long-term customer relationships and high-quality performance above all else. Discover how Bricasti Design can transform your listening experience from the source to the speaker, and let your favorite music in your collection speak for itself.
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