The M8x DAC is a fully balanced, dual-mono digital-to-analogue converter with discrete Class A output and a powerful headphone amplifier. Supporting PCM up to 768kHz, DSD512, and full MQA decoding, it delivers reference-grade performance for both speakers and headphones.
$7,200.00
The M8x DAC builds on Musical Fidelity’s long legacy of reference-grade digital audio design. At its heart are two ES9038Q2M Hyperstream II DACs working in dual differential configuration, enabling pristine dual mono performance. Audio signals are processed by a 16-core XMOS microcontroller and CPLD MAX II Altera processor, providing headroom for advanced reclocking, selectable digital filters, oversampling bypass, and full hardware MQA decoding via USB and SPDIF.
A fully balanced, discrete Class A analogue stage ensures unmatched clarity and neutrality, while the integrated headphone amplifier is an engineering highlight: 3900mW into 8 ohms (balanced) with effortless Class A operation for headphones 30 ohms and above, and stable down to 8 ohms for demanding low-impedance models. Both 6.3mm unbalanced and 4-pin XLR balanced outputs are provided.
Connectivity includes asynchronous USB (up to 768kHz PCM / DSD512), coaxial, optical, AES/EBU SPDIF, and I2S input for new Musical Fidelity CD players. Outputs are available on RCA and XLR, switchable between variable and fixed. The power supply features a Super Silent toroidal transformer, DC blocking, discrete filtering, and galvanic separation of digital and analogue stages.
With uncompromising aluminium casework acting as a Faraday cage, and the deliberate omission of a display to minimise EMI, the M8x DAC is engineered for absolute transparency and long-term reliability.
All new products come backed with full manufacturers warranty and support.
Manufacturers warranties are typically 12 months but will vary between products so please feel free to contact our team for more information.
Please feel free to reach out to us for more information. You can get in touch with one of our team members via our Contact Us page - phone or email.
Our Promise to You
At Surrounds, we want you to be absolutely thrilled with your new gear. We’re here to help, and your satisfaction is our priority.
Returns for Change of Mind
We understand that sometimes you might change your mind. We may, at our discretion, offer a return for items within 15 days of delivery. To be eligible, your item must be in brand new, unused condition and in its original, unopened packaging.
Please choose carefully, as we do not typically offer refunds for a change of mind. We may, however, provide an exchange or store credit instead. Please note that a restocking fee of up to 15% may be deducted from your credit or refund to cover our supplier costs.
You will be responsible for the cost of return shipping.
If Your Item is Faulty
All of our new products are covered by a full manufacturer's warranty, which is in addition to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
If you receive a faulty or damaged item, please contact us right away at info@surrounds.com.au or (08) 9389 6900 so we can get it resolved for you.
We will cover the cost of return shipping for any confirmed faulty items.
A quick note on returns
The M8x DAC builds on Musical Fidelity’s long legacy of reference-grade digital audio design. At its heart are two ES9038Q2M Hyperstream II DACs working in dual differential configuration, enabling pristine dual mono performance. Audio signals are processed by a 16-core XMOS microcontroller and CPLD MAX II Altera processor, providing headroom for advanced reclocking, selectable digital filters, oversampling bypass, and full hardware MQA decoding via USB and SPDIF.
A fully balanced, discrete Class A analogue stage ensures unmatched clarity and neutrality, while the integrated headphone amplifier is an engineering highlight: 3900mW into 8 ohms (balanced) with effortless Class A operation for headphones 30 ohms and above, and stable down to 8 ohms for demanding low-impedance models. Both 6.3mm unbalanced and 4-pin XLR balanced outputs are provided.
Connectivity includes asynchronous USB (up to 768kHz PCM / DSD512), coaxial, optical, AES/EBU SPDIF, and I2S input for new Musical Fidelity CD players. Outputs are available on RCA and XLR, switchable between variable and fixed. The power supply features a Super Silent toroidal transformer, DC blocking, discrete filtering, and galvanic separation of digital and analogue stages.
With uncompromising aluminium casework acting as a Faraday cage, and the deliberate omission of a display to minimise EMI, the M8x DAC is engineered for absolute transparency and long-term reliability.
All new products come backed with full manufacturers warranty and support.
Manufacturers warranties are typically 12 months but will vary between products so please feel free to contact our team for more information.
Please feel free to reach out to us for more information. You can get in touch with one of our team members via our Contact Us page - phone or email.
Surrounds offer the following assurances with every online order:
Personalised service - our team will be in contact once your order is placed to discuss timelines & logistics. We also offer comprehensive installation services and after sales support. Please feel free to get in touch to discuss any of the above before finalising your purchase.
Full manufacturer’s warranty on any new in box hardware.
7 day return of any faulty product.
The M8x DAC transforms any digital source into an emotionally powerful analogue performance. Whether streaming high-res audio, decoding MQA files, or rediscovering CD-quality tracks, it unlocks detail, depth, and dynamic realism that bring recordings vividly to life.
For headphone enthusiasts, its reference-grade amplifier rivals stand-alone designs, delivering effortless drive for everything from sensitive IEMs to power-hungry planar magnetics. Balanced operation ensures a vast, three-dimensional soundstage, making private listening every bit as immersive as loudspeaker playback.
Visually understated but engineered like a fortress, the M8x DAC embodies Musical Fidelity’s ethos: no distractions, no gimmicks—just pure musical truth. It’s not simply a DAC, but the heartbeat of a modern high-end digital system, built to deliver pleasure for decades to come.