Questyle CMA18 Master: The Pinnacle of Flagship Audio Performance
Although the CMA18 Master has been available for some time, it continues to hold an irreplaceable position in Questyle's product lineup. It stands as a true reflection of our ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of high-fidelity audio.
The CMA18 Master is a milestone in our brand’s journey — combining cutting-edge technology with refined craftsmanship to deliver an unmatched listening experience.
Current Mode Amplification Technology
At the heart of the CMA18 Master lies Questyle's proprietary Current Mode Amplification (CMA) technology.
Unlike traditional voltage amplification, Current Mode Amplification processes audio signals with minimal distortion, preserving a clearer, more transparent sound with an expanded dynamic range.
This patented, fully discrete circuitry ensures lossless transmission throughout the signal chain, bringing the listener closer to the original recording — allowing every nuance and subtlety intended by the artist to be faithfully reproduced.
Flagship ESS Sabre ES9039PRO DAC Chip
The CMA18 Master integrates the state-of-the-art ESS Sabre ES9039PRO DAC chip, supporting PCM resolutions up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512 playback.
Built on an advanced 8-core architecture, the ES9039PRO ensures outstanding dynamic range and low distortion even with ultra-high-resolution formats.
To support optimal thermal management and signal stability, the CMA18 Master utilizes military-grade Rogers PCB material, featuring an extremely low dielectric constant for superior heat dissipation. This meticulous design helps maintain low distortion and excellent dynamic performance across all playback scenarios.
Upgraded USB Platform and Bluetooth Capabilities
The CMA Eighteen Master upgrades to the XMOS X316 USB platform, supporting D/A converting up to PCM768/DSD512. It also supports both USB-B and USB-C interfaces, avoiding audio quality degradation and unstable high-definition data transfer arise with the need for conversion adapters associated with the recent shift to USB-C ports on PCs.
In addition to wired connections, the CMA18 Master now features upgraded Bluetooth functionality, supporting high-resolution wireless audio via aptX HD and LDAC codecs (up to 96kHz/24bit).
Whether wired or wireless, the CMA18 Master ensures pristine, stable audio delivery.
Powerful Headphone Amplification and Independent Power Supply
Designed for discerning headphone users, the CMA18 Master’s headphone amplifier section features a fully balanced architecture, equipped with premium ALPS four-way analog potentiometers.
With peak current delivery reaching up to 3A, it effortlessly drives everything from sensitive IEMs to demanding full-size high-impedance headphones.
The headphone amplifier and pre-amplifier circuits each have completely independent power supplies, utilizing separate NORATEL toroidal transformers and Schottky rectifiers, ensuring the DAC’s analog stages receive pure, stable power for maximum performance.
Refined Aesthetic Design and Craftsmanship
Staying true to Questyle’s design philosophy, the CMA18 Master features a sandblasted matte CNC aluminum alloy chassis, complemented by mechanical switches and signature amber indicator lights.
The minimalist yet robust industrial design is not only visually striking but also built to endure, embodying both form and function for serious audiophiles.
Learn more
Although the CMA18 Master has been available for some time, it continues to hold an irreplaceable position in Questyle's product lineup. It stands as a true reflection of our ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of high-fidelity audio.
The CMA18 Master is a milestone in our brand’s journey — combining cutting-edge technology with refined craftsmanship to deliver an unmatched listening experience.
Current Mode Amplification Technology
At the heart of the CMA18 Master lies Questyle's proprietary Current Mode Amplification (CMA) technology.
Unlike traditional voltage amplification, Current Mode Amplification processes audio signals with minimal distortion, preserving a clearer, more transparent sound with an expanded dynamic range.
This patented, fully discrete circuitry ensures lossless transmission throughout the signal chain, bringing the listener closer to the original recording — allowing every nuance and subtlety intended by the artist to be faithfully reproduced.
Flagship ESS Sabre ES9039PRO DAC Chip
The CMA18 Master integrates the state-of-the-art ESS Sabre ES9039PRO DAC chip, supporting PCM resolutions up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512 playback.
Built on an advanced 8-core architecture, the ES9039PRO ensures outstanding dynamic range and low distortion even with ultra-high-resolution formats.
To support optimal thermal management and signal stability, the CMA18 Master utilizes military-grade Rogers PCB material, featuring an extremely low dielectric constant for superior heat dissipation. This meticulous design helps maintain low distortion and excellent dynamic performance across all playback scenarios.
Upgraded USB Platform and Bluetooth Capabilities
The CMA Eighteen Master upgrades to the XMOS X316 USB platform, supporting D/A converting up to PCM768/DSD512. It also supports both USB-B and USB-C interfaces, avoiding audio quality degradation and unstable high-definition data transfer arise with the need for conversion adapters associated with the recent shift to USB-C ports on PCs.
In addition to wired connections, the CMA18 Master now features upgraded Bluetooth functionality, supporting high-resolution wireless audio via aptX HD and LDAC codecs (up to 96kHz/24bit).
Whether wired or wireless, the CMA18 Master ensures pristine, stable audio delivery.
Powerful Headphone Amplification and Independent Power Supply
Designed for discerning headphone users, the CMA18 Master’s headphone amplifier section features a fully balanced architecture, equipped with premium ALPS four-way analog potentiometers.
With peak current delivery reaching up to 3A, it effortlessly drives everything from sensitive IEMs to demanding full-size high-impedance headphones.
The headphone amplifier and pre-amplifier circuits each have completely independent power supplies, utilizing separate NORATEL toroidal transformers and Schottky rectifiers, ensuring the DAC’s analog stages receive pure, stable power for maximum performance.
Refined Aesthetic Design and Craftsmanship
Staying true to Questyle’s design philosophy, the CMA18 Master features a sandblasted matte CNC aluminum alloy chassis, complemented by mechanical switches and signature amber indicator lights.
The minimalist yet robust industrial design is not only visually striking but also built to endure, embodying both form and function for serious audiophiles.
Learn more
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