"Outstandingly Capable" Integrated Amplifier with Built-in DSD DAC
The audiolab M-ONE is a compact integrated amplifier that’s also the latest addition to audiolab’s M-DAC family. While harnessing the company’s acclaimed DAC and amp technology in a single diminutive box, the M-ONE also boasts an array of digital and analog connections, aptX Bluetooth, and a USB interface for a thrilling sonic experience with up to 384kHz resolution audio.
"This is the basis for an outstandingly capable audio system and is a must audition for anyone looking for such a device at or anywhere near the price,” raves Ed Selly, avsforum.com, January 20, 2017
”Generously Detailed
England’s What Hi-fi? magazine calls the M-ONE "generously detailed," praising its "expansive, precise and well imaged soundstage." The review concludes, "By repurposing the successful formula of the M-DAC+ for the stereo amplifier world, and further strengthening its validity with the addition of Bluetooth streaming, audiolab has created a bold-sounding amplifier."
"Even for a full-size system, the sound quality on offer would be impressive,” reports richersounds.com. “For a mini-system, it’s downright fantastic, easily shaking off any stigma that may still linger from hi-fi days past. Those short of space would be very much recommended to check out audiolab’s latest little wonder."
An Amplifier For Modern Music Lovers
Outwardly, the M-ONE is almost identical to the M-DAC+, audiolab’s flagship DAC component. It sports the same compact aluminum case, making it small enough to sit unobtrusively on a desk, table or shelf. It also has the same central OLED display and elegant dual rotary control scheme. But while standalone DACs require a separate power amp to drive a pair of speakers, the M-ONE packs stereo power amplification of suitably high quality. If that’s not enough, it goes on to offer preamp facilities for analog and digital sources.
Built-in Future-Proof DAC
The M-ONE’s DAC section is equipped to process PCM audio data up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB, ensuring that the M-ONE is primed to take full advantage of high-resolution digital sound both now and in the future. The USB input also supports DSD files (the digital audio system originally developed for Super Audio CD), offering compatibility with DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256. This is a significant inclusion, because DSD has an important role to play in the developing hi-res audio scene.
You’ve Got The Power
The preamp section of the M-ONE mixes minimalist design with high-quality components, providing a short, direct signal path to maintain sonic purity. Volume is digitally controlled in the analog domain, outputting directly to the Class AB power amplifier for an output of 40 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This is plenty of power to drive efficient modern speakers to room-filling volume levels without a hint of strain.
A low-noise linear power supply benefits all circuits, from the DAC to the power amp, incorporating a shielded, precision-wound toroidal transformer and multiple power supply sections to keep crossover interference to a minimum. This uncompromised circuit design enables an open and amply scaled soundstage brimming with crisp detail and swift, precisely defined musical transients. When used with speakers of suitable quality, the M-ONE’s performance belies its diminutive size.
High Quality Headphone Stage On Board
In addition to the main power amp stage, the M-ONE shares the same high-quality headphone amp featured in the M-DAC and M-DAC+, ensuring it’s just as capable with headphones as it is when powering speakers.
