Questyle CMA Eighteen Master is a flagship desktop DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier designed as the control centre of a reference headphone or HiFi system.

Its fully balanced Current Mode architecture, extensive digital and analogue connectivity, and powerful balanced headphone stage combine source control and high-end listening in one chassis.

Why it stands out

Flagship desktop integration

Combines digital decoding, analogue preamplification and headphone amplification in one reference-class component.

Full-chain Current Mode design

Questyle’s Current Mode signal path is engineered for wide bandwidth, low distortion and precise transient response.

Balanced system architecture

Balanced headphone and line connections support demanding headphones and high-quality downstream systems.

Flexible source control

Multiple digital and analogue inputs make it suitable for computers, transports and existing HiFi sources.

Best for

• Reference desktop headphone systems
• High-end DAC and preamplifier upgrades
• Balanced headphones and active monitor systems
• Multi-source desktop or living-room HiFi systems

Not ideal for

• Portable or battery-powered listening
• Directly driving passive loudspeakers
• Users who only need a simple USB dongle

EMiUZEK Buying Notes

• This is the desktop CMA Eighteen Master, not the battery-powered CMA18 Portable.
• It is a DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier; it does not contain a loudspeaker power amplifier.
• Connect passive speakers through a separate power amplifier or integrated amplifier.

Frequently asked questions

Can it drive passive speakers directly?

No. Use its line output with an external power amplifier or active speakers.

Can it be used as a preamplifier?

Yes, connect its line output to a compatible power amplifier or active monitors.

Can I connect a computer?

Yes, use the appropriate digital input and install the official driver where required.

Does it support balanced headphones?

Yes, it provides balanced headphone connectivity as well as single-ended headphone use.

Is this the CMA18 Portable?

No. This listing is for the full-size desktop CMA Eighteen Master.

HOW TO CONNECT

Desktop Headphone System

Source: PC / Mac
Connection: USB audio
Output: Balanced or single-ended headphone output
Target: Wired headphones

Active Speaker System

Source: Digital or analogue source
Connection: Compatible input
Output: Line / preamplifier output
Target: Active speakers

HiFi Preamp System

Source: Streamer / CD transport
Connection: Digital input
Output: Balanced or RCA line output
Target: Power amplifier and passive speakers

Technical Specifications

What's in the box

• Questyle CMA Eighteen Master
• Power cable
• Remote control
• Product documentation

Download Center

Access product manuals, firmware updates, and additional support resources.

Download Center

Additional Product Content

📊 Comparison: Which Flagship Desktop DAC/Amp Is Right for You?

Choose CMA Eighteen Master for Current Mode sound, extensive source flexibility and a flagship all-in-one system; choose RME for deep DSP control, or FiiO K19 when HDMI ARC and very high headphone power are priorities.