Musical Fidelity MX Stream

Description

High-end, zero-jitter audio-optimized streamer and network bridge.

Musical Fidelity has always been driven by the vision of creating musically engaging audio products that maintain a high standard of fidelity for generations to come. Many of our classic MF products are still cherished by their owners, proving the success of our design philosophy. Streaming in the Musical Fidelity Tradition. The MX-Stream is developed with the same goal as everything else at Musical Fidelity: technically correct design that not only boasts exceptional measurements but also delivers remarkable sound quality. To stay true to the original Musical Fidelity spirit, it must possess our signature warm yet transparent and incredibly detailed sound, moving us both emotionally and physically. There have been audio products in the past that may not have measured exceptionally well but were adored by listeners. This can also be achieved with nearly perfect technical specifications and the same dedication to perceptible sound qualities, something Musical Fidelity has always prioritized. Consequently, these audio components ascend to the highest echelons, representing affordable, no-nonsense high-end audio. The MX-Stream is yet another prime example of our enduring design philosophy.

Overview and Hardware Design: Our MX-Stream is a universal, transport-only network device that can connect any online or network streaming service to your integrated amplifier or DAC, provided you have an existing USB Class 2.0 Audio input. The MX-Stream’s digital audio circuitry is a complete custom design developed from the ground up. A significant portion inside the chassis is dedicated to the extensive power supply section. We’ve implemented power supply units (PSUs) and high-end voltage stabilization components for all the different PCB units. Advanced re-clocking is employed, including the operation of the main CPU with an audio-optimized clock, a feature uncommon in typical streaming solutions which often rely on standard CPU clocks like those found in regular computers. Every incoming digital signal is meticulously cleaned from the outset, ensuring that all audio files processed maintain their highest quality by eliminating unwanted noise often present in common streaming solutions. Through optimized software, we’ve pushed this high-tech hardware design to its absolute limits, resulting in the first near-zero jitter streamer we’ve ever encountered.

Bit-Perfect and Open Software Design: The MX-Stream’s design ensures future-proofing by keeping its architecture open. In a decade’s time, your MX-Stream will remain relevant as it can run any open-source software you choose. It will continue to use the same revolutionary hardware design and serve as the ideal streaming transport. For now, you can simply unpack the unit, set it up, and it will be perfectly plug-and-play ready, allowing you to start streaming immediately. The onboard operating system and playback software are configured by default to enable 1:1 bit-perfect digital audio transfers to your USB DAC of choice right from the start. You don’t need to worry about anything; we’ve done all the engineering and configuration for you. You are free to enjoy the Musical Fidelity signature sound without in-depth knowledge of digital audio technology. However, advanced users will find various options available to tailor the experience to their precise specifications and gain complete, transparent control over their system. Truly accessible high-end audio is at your fingertips.

Flexibility and Control Options: The MX-Stream can be controlled via a mobile app or any web browser, and you can connect HDMI and touchscreens for a full, tactile touchscreen experience. With full Roon-Ready certification, support for all lossless high-resolution streaming services currently available, as well as hi-res formats (up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD256), and standard network features like NAS support, USB-hard drive support, UPNP/DLNA, Bluetooth, Shareport (for iOS devices), web radio, CD ripping with automated tagging, and automatic music library indexing, it brings unparalleled versatility to the table.

The Perfect Streaming Companion: As a standalone device, the MX-Stream is the perfect addition to any integrated amplifier or DAC with a USB B input. Separating digital circuits and power supplies from analog circuits enhances the performance of integrated analog amplifiers. Digital circuits, when incorporated extensively, can introduce additional high-frequency distortion throughout the entire system. Conversely, extensive power supplies for pre and power amplifiers with high magnetic radiation can negatively impact digital circuit performance. By keeping streaming and amplification separate, we can achieve our vision of true high-end sound more effectively and cost-effectively, while also ensuring the longest lifespan of our amplifiers and streamers.

High resolution network bridge

• Network-enables and compatible with any modern DAC with USB input

• Completely optimised for bit-perfect audio:- Audiophile playback software- Low Noise regulation and detox section- USB & Wifi low phase noise clock section- Clock synchronised, phase interleaved, ca-pacitor multiplier pre regulators

• Complete Detox: cleans up all incoming and outgoing audio signals for zero jitter and noise

• CD ripping (requires external USB CD drive)

• Controllable via smart devices and PC/Laptop

Streaming Services

• Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, TuneIn

• Fully Roon Ready and certified

• Shareport(Airplay), UPNP/DLNA, Bluetooth

Inputs
• 2 x USB A

• 1 x Micro USB B (PC-Detox)

• Network (Ethernet, Wifi 802.11 b/g/n/d/e/h/i)

• Bluetooth (Bluetooth Classic + EDR v2.1, v3.0, v4.0 and Low Energy)

• Audio formats: PCM 32bit/352.8kHz, DSD256

• Internal storage: 16GB

Outputs
• Audio optimized USB A

• HDMI (video)

General Information
• Accessories: Wifi antenna

• Outboard power supply: 18V/1A DC (inclu-ded)

• Dimensions (WxHxD): 220 x 56 x 215 mm

• Weight: 1.91 kg net