Burson Audio Launches Composer 3X Performance DAC Preamp With Bluetooth And Qualcomm Technologies

Australia’s Burson Audio introduced the Composer 3X Performance (brand name – M-80X) on its website, which the firm described as an old-school DAC and preamp. The novelty works with almost all types of digital audio, from the simplest MP3 to the native DSD512, thanks to the use of the SABER32 / ESS9038Q2M DAC. The Composer developers, they said, followed an old-fashioned design approach.
The device has been supplemented by a Bluetooth-receiver with support for Qualcomm technologies (CSR8675 chipset) with support for a 24-bit / 96 kHz aptX HD signal. Onboard – XMOS USB, operating up to PCM 768 kHz and DSD 512. The Composer can be connected to all PCs, Macs, iOS and Android devices. The rear panel houses three digital inputs: optics, coaxial and USB-C. Analog outputs are available in balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) versions. Nearby there was a place for a compact Bluetooth antenna.

The entire signal path in Composer 3X Performance has been shortened as much as possible in terms of physical length, and implemented in a symmetrical, fully balanced circuit design. The analog part of the device used discrete operational amplifiers Burson V6Vivid. At the same time, serious attention was paid to the power reserve – the novelty is powered by an external 24V unit. Internally, the Composer 3X Performance is equipped with four Burson proprietary Max Current Switching Power Supplies (MCPS). By increasing the frequency from 50 Hz to 170 kHz, they “push” the noise beyond the human hearing.

The Composer 3X Performance’s preamp circuitry features low output impedance and two gain levels. This provides flexibility in working together with a variety of power amplifiers and active speakers. The Composer 3X Performance is made of a silver extruded aluminum housing, on the front panel there is a laconic composition of a grooved encoder, a power button, an IR remote control sensor and an operating mode indicator.

The Composer 3X Performance model was priced at $1,144 in the US, but Burson Audio recently offered the new product at a discounted price of $915.