Questyle CMA18 | Portable Wired/Wireless DAC and Amp
Questyle CMA18 Brings Desktop Caliber Performance to Your Portable Collection
- Combines the best of Questyle's portables with their flagship desktop DAC and amplification tech
- Robust variety of functions, from an all-in-one portable to HiFi recording interface
- MFi Certified for max compatibility with iOS
- Up to PCM768kHz/32bit and DSD512 playback
- Striking visual design, and excellent build quality
- USB-C, Optical/TOSlink, and Bluetooth inputs (aptX-HD + LDAC), 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outs
- Genuine Questyle leather case available separately
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Bloom's Take Having released several exemplary flagship desktop DACs, it's noteworthy that some of Questyle's best products have actually been portable DACs. The M12 and M15 are two of our favorites around here, so we’ve really been anticipating the CMA18 Portable’s release. It adds loads of features, bumped power, and a bit more complexity over previous portables. With various digital and analog inputs and outputs along with Bluetooth, there isn't much out there it can't partner with. It also looks and feels like a premium device, but with a portable size and weight for an easy slip into the pocket. The striking glass window gives you real time eyes under the hood which is more than just eye candy as there are functional indicators and LEDs directly under the scratch-resistant Corning glass panel. CMA18 Portable isn't just an addition to Questyle’s lineup - it compares favorably with competition in its class, offering standout sound and performance with over-ears. It's an excellent choice as a step-up from an ultra-portable dongle, or for bringing a taste of desktop performance while you're out and about. |
Design and Craftsmanship
Introducing Questyle's CMA18 Portable DAC and Amp, primarily designed to create a Hi-Fi system for smartphones and laptops. It aims to achieve performance comparable to top-tier desktop setups within a portable form factor.
CMA18 Portable features sandblasted aviation-grade aluminum surfaces with silver high-gloss buttons and side panels, customer Corning glass on both front and back with gradient dot pattern, and an RF signal suppression coating giving the CMA18 a unique appearance while highlighting its hardcore performance. When in use, the internal amber-colored LEDs blend perfectly with the glass cover, highlighting the unparalleled design of the CMA18 Portable.
Performance
CMA18 Portable incorporates x4 sets of patented PCT-class current-mode SiP chips, each with a peak power of up to 5W and peak current of 2A, delivering robust driving power. Gain settings, coupled with high-energy current-mode amplifier technology, ensure powerful and flexible performance.
The latest XMOS XU316 platform combined with the AK4493 DAC chip supports HD D/A converting up to PCM768/DSD512. Four sets of self-developed current-mode pCT patented SiP chips, CC630/CA630, ensure the best power and lowest power consumption in the industry, couple with 4.4mm headphone output and high/low gain mode switching, unlocking the full potential of all IEMs and top-tier over-ear headphones.
Analog Input
The CMA18 Portable has two stereo line-in inputs: 3.5mm and 4.4mm. They can be connected to any audio equipment that has line-out analogy outputs, including turntable systems, pre-amps, mixing consoles, and more. Once connected the CMA18 Portable is capable of functioning as an external lossless, high-performance analog-to-digital interface for either of these inputs. It also allows the user to simultaneously monitor the input during the recording process via the 3.5mm or 4.4mm outputs.
Expandability
Given that high-resolution lossless streaming is accessible on smartphones and PCs, we have considered the needs of audiophiles, as well as those interested in recording and music production. The user-friendly interface and powerful performance of CMA18 Portable enable the CMA18 Portable to connect to 2-channel HiFi devices, bringing lossless music to your home. It also allows recording and music production professionals to connect to monitor speakers and mixing consoles on-site.
Specifications
USB Playback
- Max Support: PCM768kHz/32-bit
- DSD Native: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512
- DSD DoP: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256
- Supports: UAC 2.0, Windows 7/8/10/11, Linux, Android, HarmonyOS, macOS, and iOS
USB Recording
- Fixed 48Hz/32bit Stereo Recording
- Supports: Windows 7/8/10/11, Linux, Android, HarmonyOS, macOS, and iOS
Inputs
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Digital
- USB-C
- Optical/TOSLink: Supports 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 192kHz/24bit
- Bluetooth: SBC/AAC/aptX/aptX-HD/LDAC
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Analog
- 3.5mm stereo line-in
- 4.4mm Balanced stereo line-in
Amplification
- Maximum Headphone Output: BAL: 1000mW@32Ω
- THD+N: <0.0003%@20mW, 300Ω
- SNR: >120dB
- Headphone Outputs: 3.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced
Battery
- Playback battery life: >10 hours
- Maximum charging current: 2A
- Charging time: ~3.5 hour
In the Box
- CMA18 Portable DAC/Amp
- Charge cable
- USB-C to USB-C OTG Cable
- USB-C to Lightning OTG Cable
- Quickstart Guide
- Warranty Card
