BRICASTI DESIGN M11 R-2R Stereo D/A

Product overview

The BRICASTI DESIGN M11 R-2R Stereo D/A (M11 Classic) represents a bold leap into resistor ladder conversion technology: a 20-bit R-2R ladder DAC with laser-cut resistor arrays, BRICASTI DESIGN clocking, the MDx processor and proprietary filters, drawing heavily on the M1 Classic series.

The M11 Classic R-2R merges precision engineering with BRICASTI DESIGN's digital expertise. Its 20-bit ladder DAC architecture, employing laser-cut resistor arrays, delivers a pure, natural sound, while BRICASTI DESIGN's clocking expertise ensures impeccable timing and clarity, and the meticulous refinement of the proprietary filters gives musicality and transparency. Crafted by hand in the USA, it combines innovative technology with an upgradeable architecture.

Key features

• 20-bit R-2R ladder DAC with laser-cut resistor arrays
• Design philosophies and innovations inspired by the M1 D/A
• MDx processor for enhanced speed and precision
• DSD256 native and DoP over USB; PCM up to 384 kHz
• Five digital inputs: AES/EBU, S/PDIF on RCA and BNC, Toslink and isolated asynchronous USB
• Optional network player and I2S input for the M19 SACD/CD Reference Transport
• Linear and minimum phase PCM filters; three DSD post filters
• Future-proof, upgradeable design; hand crafted by BRICASTI DESIGN in the USA
• Finishes: Classic black, Argento silver and Platinum

R-2R ladder performance

The M11 converts with a 20-bit resistor ladder (R-2R) DAC rather than delta-sigma conversion. BRICASTI DESIGN clocking expertise and precise filter refinement give flawless timing and clarity, with the natural musicality and transparency of ladder conversion.

Perfectly connected

The M11 integrates seamlessly with high-quality servers through the optional network player, and the I2S input enables a perfectly synchronised high-resolution digital system with the BRICASTI DESIGN M19 SACD/CD Reference Transport.

Simple operation

A large display, an adjust knob, six keys (Input, Filter, Status, Level, Display, Enter) and a Standby switch. The digital level control in 1 dB steps lets it drive a power amplifier directly; the display offers three brightness levels and five colours; inputs can be renamed; the trigger jack works as trigger in, trigger out or remote.

Available versions

• Classic black: black anodised aluminium
• Argento silver: silver anodised aluminium
• Platinum: real platinum finish

In the box

• M11 R-2R Stereo D/A
• Three-wire grounding-type power cord

BRICASTI DESIGN M11 R-2R Stereo D/A: frequently asked questions

What is an R-2R DAC?

A resistor ladder converter: the M11 uses a 20-bit R-2R ladder DAC to convert digital audio to analog.

Which digital inputs does it have?

AES/EBU on XLR, S/PDIF on RCA and BNC, Toslink and USB 2, with optional network (RJ45) and I2S inputs.

Does it play DSD?

Yes: DSD64 to DSD256 native or DoP over USB, DSD128 over the optional network player and DSD64 as DoP on all inputs.

Which finishes are available?

Classic black, Argento silver and Platinum.

Where can I buy the BRICASTI DESIGN M11 R-2R Stereo D/A in India?

The BRICASTI DESIGN M11 R-2R Stereo D/A is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: DAC into a preamplifier

Hi-fi systems with an existing preamplifier.

Connections

Setup

1. Select the input with the Input key and the adjust knob.
2. Check the input and sample rate on the Status page.
3. Leave the level at 0 dB.
4. Set the listening level on the preamplifier.

Tip: Send native sample rates: switch off up-sampling in the source.

Workflow 2: Direct to a power amplifier

Minimal systems with no preamplifier.

Connections

Setup

1. Reduce the level before playing music.
2. Select the source.
3. Raise the level in 1 dB steps to the listening level.
4. Press Level again to mute when needed.

Tip: Use the digital level only for the last few dB where possible; set gross attenuation at the amplifier trim.

Workflow 3: Computer audio over USB

Listeners playing high-resolution files from a computer.

Connections

Setup

1. Power the computer off before connecting or changing the USB cable.
2. Select the USB input.
3. Play PCM up to 384 kHz / 24-bit at its native rate.
4. Play DSD as native or DoP, up to DSD256 native.

Tip: The USB interface is electrically isolated from the computer.

Workflow 4: Network streaming (option)

Systems with a media server on the home network.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the network port to the router.
2. Enable network sharing in the server application.
3. Choose the M11 R-2R Stereo D/A as the player in the server.
4. Play native sample rates, no down-sampling.

Tip: The server can be anywhere on the network, out of the listening room.

Workflow 5: SACD/CD playback over I2S (option)

Owners of the BRICASTI DESIGN M19 SACD/CD Reference Transport.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the M19 to the I2S input.
2. Select the I2S input.
3. Play the disc.
4. Compare PCM filters to taste.

Tip: I2S carries the direct reference signal normally used board to board.

Workflow 6: System standby by trigger

Systems with BRICASTI DESIGN power amplifiers.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the trigger function in the Status menu.
2. Connect the TRS cable (ring = 5 V).
3. Use the front Standby switch to place the system in standby.
4. Use the rear switch for full power off.

Tip: Standby mutes the outputs and keeps power consumption low.