BRICASTI DESIGN M18 Dual Mono Power Amplifier

Product overview

The BRICASTI DESIGN M18 Dual Mono Power Amplifier is a compact, fully differential stereo power amplifier with a true dual mono, fully balanced topology, delivering 60 W into 8 Ω, 120 W into 4 Ω and 150 W into 2 Ω with THD+N below 0.003 %.

The M18 is a true reference design in analog power amplification: low distortion with moderate power and a truly balanced topology rarely seen in the industry. It strikes a balance between size and performance in a chassis only 114 mm (4.5 in) high, creating a seamless sonic pathway from source to speakers, and its fully differential architecture makes its performance effortless and responsive. It is built from milled aluminium sections and hand crafted in the USA.

Key features

• True dual mono design with a fully balanced topology for channel separation and minimal distortion
• Power output flexibility: 60 W into 8 Ω, 120 W into 4 Ω and 150 W into 2 Ω
• Balanced XLR inputs, the companion to BRICASTI DESIGN preamplifiers and other balanced sources
• Ultra-low distortion: THD+N below 0.003 %, 20 Hz - 20 kHz at full rated power into 8 and 4 Ω
• Linear power supplies and a filtered 15 A IEC inlet with mains range sensing
• Three-stage power-up: idle, standby with outputs muted, on
• Trigger in and out for system standby
• Isolation devices built into the feet
• Compact chassis: 425 x 114 x 368 mm
• Hand crafted by BRICASTI DESIGN in the USA

Precise control

The power amplifier is a critical part of the audio chain: it must amplify the incoming signal evenly while precisely managing the loudspeaker's load and controlling its back EMF. The M18 is designed to be transparent and revealing, with low dynamic distortion and no sense of limits or compression, whatever the loudspeaker technology.

Balanced power

The M18 architecture delivers extremely low distortion with moderate power and a balanced topology. Paired with a BRICASTI DESIGN DAC such as the M1 Classic, or the M12 Source Controller, it achieves a fully differential signal path from the converter to the loudspeaker.

Fully differential technology

Independent amplifiers for each channel give exceptional separation while keeping negative signals away from ground, reducing crosstalk, noise and interference and improving the signal-to-noise ratio, for a more natural, lifelike sound at any volume.

Modern application

The M18 integrates into existing systems in a compact form, and its feet incorporate custom isolation devices: a polished result derived from many hours of critical listening and tuning.

Available versions

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

In the box

• M18 Dual Mono Power Amplifier
• AC power cord with 15 A IEC connector
• Trigger adaptor cable (TRS to mono)

BRICASTI DESIGN M18 Dual Mono Power Amplifier: frequently asked questions

How powerful is the M18?

60 W into 8 Ω, 120 W into 4 Ω and 150 W into 2 Ω, with THD+N below 0.003 % from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at full rated power.

Is the M18 a stereo amplifier?

Yes. It is a stereo amplifier with a true dual mono design: an independent amplifier for each channel in one compact chassis.

Which inputs does the M18 have?

Balanced XLR inputs, 100 kΩ, one for each channel. The M18 is a true balanced amplifier and performs best with a balanced source.

Can my preamplifier switch the M18 on?

Yes. A positive 5 V or 12 V DC trigger on the ring of the trigger input powers it fully up; BRICASTI DESIGN sources such as the M20 connect directly, and an adaptor cable is supplied for other products.

Which finishes are available?

Classic (black), Argento (silver) and Platinum.

Where can I buy the BRICASTI DESIGN M18 Dual Mono Power Amplifier in India?

The BRICASTI DESIGN M18 Dual Mono Power Amplifier is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Stereo amplifier with a preamplifier

Hi-fi systems with a balanced preamplifier.

Connections

Setup

1. Install the speaker cables first, observing polarity.
2. Connect the XLR inputs and the trigger.
3. Press the front power switch: idle.
4. Press Standby twice: standby, then on.

Tip: Standby (outputs muted) can be used to pre-heat the amplifier.

Workflow 2: A fully differential BRICASTI DESIGN chain

Owners of a BRICASTI DESIGN DAC or M12 Source Controller.

Connections

Setup

1. Use balanced XLR cables.
2. Set the volume at the source.
3. Power up through idle, standby and on.
4. Enjoy a differential path from converter to loudspeaker.

Tip: The M18 performs best with a balanced source.

Workflow 3: Compact hi-fi system

Rooms where space is limited.

Connections

Setup

1. Place the M18 on a ventilated shelf, not above heat sources.
2. Connect speakers and inputs.
3. Connect the 15 A power cord.
4. Power up and play.

Tip: Keep the heatsink fins and vents clear.

Workflow 4: Low impedance loudspeakers

Loudspeakers that dip to 2 Ω.

Connections

Setup

1. Use spade or ring lugs, or banana plugs.
2. Tighten the thumb screws firmly, without over-tightening.
3. Power up as usual.
4. Set the listening level at the preamplifier.

Tip: The M18 delivers 150 W into 2 Ω.

Workflow 5: System standby with triggers

Systems with the M20 preamplifier or other trigger sources.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the TRS trigger cable.
2. Leave the M18 in idle.
3. The trigger brings it fully up.
4. Removing the trigger returns it to idle.

Tip: Use the supplied adaptor cable with products that are not BRICASTI DESIGN.

Workflow 6: Clean power down

Every user.

Connections

Setup

1. Press Standby quickly to mute inputs and outputs.
2. Wait for the LED to flash at one third of the speed.
3. Switch off at the front power switch.
4. A 2 s press of Standby returns to idle instead.

Tip: Placing the amplifier in standby first ensures a clean, safe power off.