Description
1. The Zenith of Current Mode Amplification
The Questyle CMA Fifteen is more than just a DAC/Amp; it is the culmination of 15 years of engineering excellence. By combining Questyle’s patented Current Mode Amplification with the flagship ES9038PRO decoding engine, the CMA Fifteen achieves a "System-level Lossless" experience, bringing the pure, unadulterated sound of the recording studio to your desk.
2. Key Features & Reference-Grade Innovations
Current Mode Amplification & ES9038PRO
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Flagship Decoding: The CMA Fifteen utilizes the ESS Sabre ES9038PRO, the world's most powerful DAC chip, supporting up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and Native DSD512.
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Patented Analog Stage: Unlike standard voltage-mode amps, the CMA Fifteen’s Current Mode tech eliminates transient intermodulation distortion (TIMD), resulting in a natural, holographic soundstage that mimics high-end tube gear with Class D precision.
Full MQA & High-Res Bluetooth
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Master Quality Authenticated: Equipped with full MQA decoding, the CMA Fifteen ensures you hear the exact sound intended by the artist.
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LDAC Wireless: Features high-definition Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC support, allowing for near-lossless wireless streaming from your mobile devices.
Professional Connectivity & Build
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Balanced Architecture: Offers a comprehensive range of outputs, including 4-pin XLR balanced, 4.4mm balanced, and 6.35mm single-ended headphone jacks.
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Pre-Amp Functionality: Includes high-quality RCA and XLR pre-amp outputs with a dedicated Studio/Standard gain switch, allowing it to serve as a reference controller for active monitors.
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Technical Specifications
Component Specification DAC Chipset ESS Sabre ES9038PRO Amplification 4x Patented Current Mode Engines Max Output Power 2W @32Ω (Balanced) Decoding Support PCM 768kHz / DSD512 / Full MQA Inputs USB-C, USB-B, Optical, Coaxial, Analog RCA Outputs 4.4mm, 4-Pin XLR, 6.35mm, XLR/RCA Pre-out THD+N < 0.0003% @ 300Ω
Specifications
- Weight: 200gr
- Usage: Indoor & outdoor
Pros and cons
- Sustainably produced
- Ideal for everyday use
CMA Fifteen
desktop decoding earmuff machine
Specifications
Input/output parameters
Digital input
USBx2 (Including a high-priority UsB Type-C interface and a UsB Type-Binterface.)
PCM
44.1kHz-768kHz/32Bit
DSD
Native DSD512:DoP DSD256
MQA
Full / Core decoder
USB input supports UAc 2.0. lt supports Win XP, Vista, Win7/8/10, Linux, MAc oS and otheroperating systems. lt also can be connected to smartphones supporting OTG audio output.
Note: Windows system under Win10 will need to install the ASl0 driver developed by QuestyleWin10 system supports DoP DSD256 without installing the driver, and supports NativeDSD512 with the driver installed.
Opticalinputx1
PCM: 44.1kHz~192kHz124Bit
Coaxial Inputx1
PCM: 44.1kHz~192kHz/24Bit
Bluetooth Inputx 1
SBC, AAC, LDAC (At the highest level of 96kHz/24Bit, 990kps/909kps)
Analog Input
RCA x1, 2Vrms standard level
Headphone Amplifier Output Interface
6.35mm standard headphone iack x1 / 4-P|N balanced headphoneiack x1 / 4.4mm balanced headphonejack x1
Note: You can set High/Standard bias through the BlAS switch on the front panel of theheadphone amplifier, and set Standard/Low gain through the four Gain switches on the bottomof the headphone amplifier.
Pre-Amp Output Interface
XLR x1; RCA x1
Note: The output level can be set by Standard/Studio switch andvolume can be controlled by ADJ/F|X switch on the rear panel.
Pre-Amp Output Interface
XLR x1; RCA x1
Headphone Amplifier Output Specs
Max.output Power:6.35mm
188mW @ 3002 1.5W @ 32Q 4.4mm balanced /XLR 4-PIN balanced: 765mW @ 3002 2W @ 32Q
THD+N
<0.0003% @3009;<0.001%@322
Frequency Response
+0.2dB(DC-22kHz)@48kHz/24Bit
SNR
6.35mm:>117dB ;4.4mm balanced /XLR 4-PlN balanced: >120dB
Pre-Amp Output Specs
Max. Analog Output Amplitude
RCA:2V(Standard), Studio mode output up to14dBu / XLR: 4V (Standard), Studio mode output up to 20dBu
THD+N: RCA
0.0004%;XLR: 0.0003%
Frequency Response
+0.2dB(DC-22kHz)@48kHz/24Bit
SNR
RCA:>116dB :XLR:>119dB
FAQs
What makes the Questyle CMA Fifteen the flagship of the CMA series?
The Questyle CMA Fifteen represents the pinnacle of Current Mode Amplification. It is the first flagship model from Questyle to feature a top-tier ESS Sabre DAC architecture combined with their patented Current Mode Amplification. This synergy allows the device to process massive amounts of data with extreme precision, delivering a soundstage that is both vast and incredibly detailed, effectively bridging the gap between digital accuracy and analog musicality.
How does the CMA Fifteen handle high-resolution MQA files?
The CMA Fifteen is a full MQA Decoder, not just a renderer. This means it performs the complete "unfolding" of MQA files internally to deliver the highest possible sound quality. Whether you are streaming from Tidal or playing MQA-CDs, the CMA Fifteen ensures you hear the music exactly as it was recorded in the master studio, with all the original timing and detail intact.
Can the Questyle CMA Fifteen be used as a dedicated Pre-amp?
Yes, it is highly versatile. The CMA Fifteen features a pure Class A Pre-amp mode with both XLR (balanced) and RCA (unbalanced) outputs. This allows you to integrate it into a high-end home audio system, connecting directly to active speakers or a power amplifier. Its specialized volume control and low-distortion signal path ensure that it maintains the integrity of the audio signal throughout your entire Hi-Fi chain.
What is the benefit of the "Current Mode" technology for planar magnetic headphones?
Planar magnetic headphones require significant current to perform at their best. Questyle’s Current Mode Amplification is uniquely suited for this, as it amplifies the signal in the current domain. This provides the CMA Fifteen with an almost limitless sense of dynamic headroom and exceptional control over the driver's diaphragm, resulting in tighter bass, faster transients, and the elimination of the "strained" sound often heard with traditional voltage-based amplifiers.
Does the CMA Fifteen support lossless Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, for users who demand convenience without sacrificing quality, the CMA Fifteen includes high-definition Bluetooth support (LDAC and aptX HD). By treating the Bluetooth signal with the same "Current Mode" rigor as the wired inputs, it manages to deliver a wireless listening experience that maintains an impressive level of transparency and dynamic range, perfect for casual listening or sharing music from mobile devices.