INTRODUCING THE BRICASTI M19 SACD/CD DIGITAL TRANSPORT PLAYER

Brian Zolner, CEO of Bricasti Design shares his thoughts on the new M19 SACD/CD Reference Transport

THE FINE ART OF SIMPLICITY

Since we introduced our first product to the market in 2010, we have been constantly asked to create a high-resolution disk player. Why? Many enthusiasts have vast digital media libraries, primarily stored on CDs and, to some extent SACDs. Some have too many to rip or do not want the inconvenience of using a computer to play their music; we were asked for something simple to operate.

And then there are those in the industry who feel the quality of playback to be far superior when playing physical SACD/CD media. Considering these factors, we felt there was a reason to bring a dedicated, reference standard, new player to the market.

Seven years ago, we pioneered embedding a network streamer directly within our DACs, setting a new industry standard. While Redbook CDs remain a timeless format for exceptional detail retrieval, SACDs' DSD format, originally designed for lossless audio archiving, inspired us to integrate its high-resolution potential seamlessly into our DAC range.

Our approach prioritises simplicity, eliminating unnecessary components like up-sampling, USB connections, or additional DACs to stay true to the original master. The M19 exemplifies this philosophy, featuring dual oversized linear power supplies. These medical-grade toroidal transformers independently power the transport mechanics and digital audio path, ensuring genuinely unmatched performance.

PERFORMANCE

I2S: RAW

The M19 SACD/CD Reference Transport features our proprietary I2S digital output, designed exclusively for Bricasti DACs. This direct interface ensures seamless integration, elevating performance with improved clarity, enhanced layering, and a broader sound spectrum. The I2S input is now available as an option on all new Bricasti DACs and can be added as an upgrade for existing customers.

For those interested in the specifics, the M19's design eliminates jitter and power supply ripple by integrating all components within a milled aluminium chassis. This ensures optimal low-current, low-voltage DC power delivery without the need for external power supplies or connectors, maximising the accuracy, and the beauty of the sound.

Dual independent power supplies are positioned near the drive and digital output sections, minimising RF contamination and ensuring isolated current delivery. This guarantees stable motor speeds and prevents cross-feed between the drive and audio path.

Equipped with the latest Sound United D&M SACD/CD mechanism, the M19 supports CD playback at native 44.1kHz/16-bit and SACD at DSD64 as DoP, preserving the original signal. Additionally, the M19 offers a proprietary I2S digital output designed exclusively for Bricasti DACs. This interface creates a seamless connection, effectively integrating the DAC as if it were one single unit with the M19.

The result is a stunning audible improvement, with greater clarity, enhanced layering, and a more refined sound spectrum. The I2S input is now available as an option for all new Bricasti DACs and as a desirable upgrade for existing customers.

All of our products support various ways to interface with sources and deliver digital audio by converting it to the highest standards using our DACs. With the addition of the M19 to our product line, we now offer a very high-end "player" as an additional method to stream data into our DACs, allowing you to enjoy your favourite silver-disc titles with the highest possible fidelity.