Chassis and installation
Separate processing, conversion and power units each need shelf space and connecting cables. Check dimensions, ventilation and cable access for the complete configuration.
REFERENCE DAC COMPARISON · MELBOURNE
Considering MSB alongside dCS? Plan your DAC comparison.
Start with the sources, amplifier and speakers you plan to keep. Work out which inputs and volume controls you need, then use familiar music to decide which MSB models you would like to hear more closely.
Start with the comparison questionsCurrent Australian price guidance · Two-year warranty · Availability confirmed on enquiry
For listeners comparing reference digital front ends
What needs to work with your existing system?
Start with connections and everyday use. These four questions help you identify suitable configurations before comparing their sound.
Sources and inputs
Match each source’s digital output to an installed DAC input. Network playback and analogue inputs depend on the particular model and modules, so compare the actual configuration being quoted.
Volume control and amplification
Decide whether to keep your preamplifier or consider direct connection. Output level, impedance, amplifier gain and the DAC’s volume-control configuration all affect that choice.
Music and listening priorities
A private appointment gives you time to listen to familiar recordings and ask about the differences you hear.
YOUR OPTIONS
How we can help with your comparison
MSB offers different arrangements of conversion, digital processing and power. Start with the functions and physical space your system needs, then choose which models to hear.
Check connections to your existing equipment.
Tell us your source, amplifier and speaker models, along with the main question you hope listening will answer.
Compare configurations with the functions you need.
Check inputs, volume control, modules and installation together so the models on your shortlist can work in your system.
Arrange time to listen.
The exact MSB DAC system and configuration available for the requested date are confirmed before the appointment.
MSB TECHNOLOGY · CURRENT DAC RANGE
Explore the current MSB DAC range.
The MSB products below have a two-year standard Australian warranty. Prices include GST; we explain the supplied configuration and delivery timing when preparing your quote.
MSB TECHNOLOGY · DACS & DIGITAL SOURCE
The Sentinel DAC
Sentinel is MSB’s flagship digital source and preamplifier. Its dual-mono converter uses 32 Hybrid DAC MkII modules, with separate digital processing and power chassis for a dedicated three-box system.
Main useThe Digital Director handles your sources, while the converter provides analogue conversion and preamplifier functions.
- Chassis
- Digital Director, dual-mono converter and power supply
- DAC modules
- 32 Hybrid DAC MkII modules
$595,000
2-year standard Australian warranty
MSB TECHNOLOGY · DACS & DIGITAL SOURCE
The Cascade DAC
Cascade brings digital playback and line-level analogue sources under one volume control. Eight Hybrid DAC MkII modules, a Digital Director and a separate Powerbase form its three-chassis system.
Main useSelect between digital and line-level analogue sources, then control the listening volume at the DAC.
- Chassis
- Digital Director, converter and Powerbase
- DAC modules
- 8 Hybrid DAC MkII modules
$147,500
2-year standard Australian warranty
MSB TECHNOLOGY · DACS & DIGITAL SOURCE
The Palisade DAC
Palisade combines Digital Director processing, four Hybrid DAC MkII modules and passive analogue volume control in two chassis. It suits an all-digital system where you want direct power-amplifier connection without a separate Powerbase.
Main useThe Digital Director receives your digital sources; the converter provides analogue output and volume control.
- Chassis
- Digital Director and converter
- DAC modules
- 4 Hybrid DAC MkII modules
$93,500
2-year standard Australian warranty
MSB TECHNOLOGY · DACS & DIGITAL SOURCE
The Premier DAC
Premier brings four Prime DAC modules, a Femto 93 clock and a separate Powerbase to a modular digital system. Its built-in volume control gives you the choice of keeping your preamplifier or connecting to a suitable power amplifier.
Main useCombines digital conversion and volume control for a two-channel system.
- DAC modules
- 4 Prime DAC modules
- Clock
- Femto 93
$42,900
2-year standard Australian warranty
MSB TECHNOLOGY · DACS & DIGITAL SOURCE
The Discrete DAC
Keep your digital sources and add MSB conversion with volume control. Discrete is the starting point in the range, with two Prime DAC modules, fixed digital inputs and two slots for additional connections.
Main useConverts digital music into the analogue signal your amplifier uses.
- DAC modules
- 2 Prime DAC modules
- Clock
- On-board clock architecture
$19,500
2-year standard Australian warranty
PRIVATE AUDITION · CROYDON VIC 3136
Compare MSB DACs with music you know.
MSB DAC private auditions are one-to-one and appointment-only. The configuration is confirmed before the visit, familiar music is welcome and one compatible DAC or streamer may be brought by prior arrangement.
View the audition process- Review the current system
- Confirm compatibility
- Prepare the comparison
- Listen and decide
QUESTIONS BEFORE YOU ENQUIRE
Common questions about comparison and listening.
How should I prepare for a DAC comparison?
List the sources you want to keep, decide where you will adjust volume and choose a few familiar recordings. These give you practical questions to answer during listening. The guide explains the MSB options; demonstration equipment is agreed before the visit.
Can I bring a DAC or streamer I already know?
One compatible DAC or streamer may be brought by prior arrangement. Send us the model, outputs, power and connection details so we can prepare the comparison before your visit.
Can every MSB DAC be heard at every appointment?
No. Each appointment uses the equipment agreed beforehand. Tell us which models interest you so we can explain what is available for your preferred date.
What warranty applies to the displayed prices?
New MSB products have a two-year standard Australian warranty. We will explain availability and expected delivery when you enquire.
MSN Audio supplies MSB and is not affiliated with dCS. This page introduces comparison topics and MSB products; it does not report a side-by-side test.
01
Which functions will the DAC need?
List the digital sources you will connect, whether you need network playback and where you want to adjust volume. Check the actual input modules and output configuration on each model; a shared price range does not imply the same connections or functions.
02
Use familiar music and keep the comparison consistent
Choose recordings you know well and allow time for complete passages. Where practical, use the same amplifier and speakers at similar listening levels. By prior arrangement, you can bring one compatible DAC or streamer to the MSN Audio private listening environment.
03
Listen across complete tracks
Try a familiar voice, the decay of piano notes and a passage where several instruments play together. Listen through the complete track: which details hold your attention, and do you enjoy the way the performance comes together?
04
Leave room for everyday use
Check shelf space, cable access, source switching and the controls you will use every day. A multi-chassis DAC needs room for each unit and its connections. Ask what is included in the quoted configuration and which modules are optional.
05
Request the session
Tell us which DACs you are considering and the amplifier and speakers you use. Add your main questions and preferred timing. We will explain which MSB system can be heard and what to prepare before a visit.
AUDITION BOOKING
Request an MSB DAC Private Audition.
Tell us which MSB model you would like to hear and your preferred dates. We will contact you to discuss the available equipment and confirm an appointment.
We use your details to review and respond to this enquiry. Product updates are optional; advertising measurement follows your Privacy options in the footer.