Description
1. Desktop Power, Truly Portable
The Questyle CMA18 Portable is a masterwork of miniaturization. Designed to deliver the same high-fidelity experience as Questyle’s legendary desktop stacks, the CMA18 Portable combines a high-performance AKM DAC with a quadruple Current Mode Amplification engine. It is the ultimate tool for audiophiles who want no compromise in sound quality while on the move.
2. Key Features & Reference Performance
Quadruple Current Mode Amplification (CCAM)
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Unrivaled Driving Force: The CMA18 Portable features four sets of patented Current Mode Amplification circuits. This technology delivers a staggering peak output current of up to 5kmA, allowing it to drive even the most demanding full-sized headphones with ease.
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Pure Analog Texture: By operating in the current domain, it achieves a THD+N as low as 0.0003%, providing a soundstage that is remarkably clean, dynamic, and free from digital harshness.
Flagship AKM Decoding & Bluetooth LDAC
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Velvet Sound Architecture: Powered by the AK4493SEQ DAC chip, it supports high-resolution files up to PCM 768kHz/32-bit and Native DSD512.
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High-Res Wireless: Equipped with high-definition Bluetooth LDAC, the CMA18 Portable allows you to enjoy near-lossless audio wirelessly from any compatible smartphone or tablet.
Versatile Connectivity & Recording
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Analog Input & Recording: Unique among portable DACs, the CMA18 Portable features an Analog RCA/3.5mm input, allowing it to function as a high-end portable recorder or a pre-amp for other systems.
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Balanced Outputs: Includes both 4.4mm Balanced and 3.5mm Single-ended headphone jacks to accommodate any professional cable setup.
Questyle CMA18 Portable
Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
| DAC Chipset | AKM AK4493SEQ |
| Amplification | 4x Patented CCAM Engines |
| Max Output Power | Up to 1W @32Ω (Balanced) |
| Decoding Support | PCM 768kHz / DSD512 / LDAC |
| Inputs | USB-C, Bluetooth, 3.5mm Analog Line-in |
| Outputs | 4.4mm Balanced, 3.5mm Single-ended |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours (Depending on Gain) |
Specifications
- Weight: 200gr
- Usage: Indoor & outdoor
Pros and cons
- Sustainably produced
- Ideal for everyday use
CMA Eighteen Master
desktop decoding earmuff machine
Specifications
Input/Output Interface Specifications
Digital input
USB Including a high-priority USB Type-C interface and a USB Type-B interface.
PCM:
44.1kHz-768kHz/32Bit
Native DSD
DSD64,DSD128,DSD256,DSD512
DOP DSD
DSD64.DSD128.DSD256:USB input supports UAC 2.0.Supports Win XPNista/Win7/in8/in10/in1 1/Linux/Android/HarmonyOS/macos and ios
Note: Windows system under Win10 will need to install the ASl0 driver developed by Questyle.Win10 system supports DOP DSD 256 without installing the driver, and supports Native DSD 512with the driver installed.
Optical Input
Supports PCM: 44.1kHz~192kHz/24Bit
Coaxial input
Supports PCM: 44.1kHz~192kHz/24Bit
Native DSD
DSD64,DSD128,DSD256,DSD512
Bluetooth input
Supports SBC, AAC, aptX, aptx-HD, LDAC(up to 96kHz124Bit, 990kps/90gkps)
Analog Input RCA
Standard level 2Vrms
Headphone Amplifier Output interface
4.4mm balanced headphone jack/4-PIN balanced headphone jack/6,35mm standard headphone iackNote: You can set High/Standard bias through the BlAS switch on the front panel of the headphoneamplifier, and set Standard/ow gain through the four Gain switches on the bottom of the headphoneamplifier.
Pre-Amp Qutput interface
XLR x 1. RCA x 1 (Note: The output level can be set byStandard/Studio switch and volume can be controlled by ADJ/FlX switch on the rear panel.)
Headphone Amplifier Technical Specifications
Max output Power (Po)
6.35mm:188mW@3000; 1.5W@3204.4mm balanced/XLR 4-PIN balanced:765mW@3000; 2W@320
THD+N
<0.0003%
Native DSD
DSD64,DSD128,DSD256,DSD512
Frequency Response
+0.2dB(DC-22kHz)@48kHz/24Bit
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
6.35mm: >117dB; 4.4mm Balanced/ XLR 4-pinBalanced:>120dB
Pre-amplifier Technical Specifications
Maximum Analog output Level:RCA
2V(STANDARD), Studio mode output increased to 14dBuXLR: 4V (STANDARD), Studio mode output increased to 20dBu
THD+N
<0.0003%
Frequency Response
+0.2dB(DC-22kHz)@48kHz/24Bit
signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
RCA: >116dB, XLR: >119dB
FAQs
What defines the "Master" status of the Questyle CMA18 Master?
The Questyle CMA18 Master is defined by its "Desktop-grade" performance in a portable chassis. Unlike consumer-grade dongles, the "Master" version utilizes Questyle's flagship Current Mode Amplification (CMA) technology paired with a fully balanced architecture. This allows it to deliver the immense driving power and ultra-low distortion typically reserved for high-end desktop setups, making it the ultimate solution for audiophiles who refuse to compromise on the go.
Can the CMA18 Master record analog audio to a digital format?
Yes, it can. A unique feature of the CMA18 Master is its high-performance ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) function. It allows you to input an analog signal via the 3.5mm Line-in and convert it into a high-resolution digital stream for your smartphone or computer. This makes it an invaluable tool for users looking to digitize vinyl collections or record live performances with studio-level transparency.
Does the CMA18 Master carry the Apple MFi Certification?
Absolutely. The CMA18 Master is Apple MFi Certified, ensuring it meets Apple's stringent performance and power standards. This certification guarantees a seamless, "plug-and-play" experience with iPhones and iPads, allowing for bit-perfect delivery of Apple Music Lossless audio without the compatibility issues or "accessory not supported" errors common with non-certified devices.
How does the Current Mode Amplification (CMA) benefit high-end headphones?
Questyle’s patented CMA technology operates in the current domain rather than the voltage domain. For the CMA18 Master, this results in a near-instantaneous transient response and a massive bandwidth. For the listener, this translates to unparalleled control over demanding planar magnetic headphones, delivering tight, impactful bass and an airy, natural high-frequency response that sounds organic rather than analytical.
Can I use the CMA18 Master with both IEMs and full-sized headphones?
Yes. The CMA18 Master is designed with versatility in mind. It features a multi-stage Gain control that allows users to toggle between power modes. The "Low Gain" setting provides a silent, hiss-free background for highly sensitive In-Ear Monitors (IEMs), while the "High Gain" setting unlocks the massive current output needed to drive high-impedance, full-sized over-ear headphones to their full potential.