Bryston BDA 3 (DAC) DAC Streamer

Bryston BDA-3 – High-end DAC and network streamer in one digital control center

The Bryston BDA-3.14 combines two key components of modern digital music playback in a single high-quality device: the powerful BDA-3 digital-to-analog converter technology and an integrated high-resolution streamer. This allows the BDA-3.14 to replace the combination of a separate streamer and DAC, creating a particularly compact and powerful solution for demanding digital hi-fi systems.

At its core is the proven digital technology of the BDA-3, enhanced by a high-quality internal network streamer. The connection between the streamer and DAC is established internally via I²S, a particularly precise digital interface. This creates a seamless signal path designed for high-quality and detailed processing of digital music data.

The integrated streamer supports playback up to 192 kHz / 24-bit and offers access to numerous streaming services and online offerings. Supported services include Tidal, Qobuz, Roon, and internet radio. You can also easily integrate your own music collection: locally stored music files can be played back via USB or a NAS drive.

Operation is conveniently via a web-enabled device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This allows for easy management of your digital music collection and integration of the BDA-3.14 into a modern network hi-fi system.

In addition to the integrated streamer, the BDA-3.14 offers a comprehensive selection of external digital inputs. A total of six different interfaces are available, including two USB ports, AES/EBU, S/PDIF via RCA, S/PDIF via BNC, and Toslink. This allows the DAC to be used as a central digital interface for a wide variety of source devices.

The BDA-3.14 also proves exceptionally versatile in terms of resolution. The DAC processes PCM signals up to 384 kHz / 32-bit as well as DSD up to DSD-256 or DSD4x. Upsampling can also be individually activated for selected inputs. This allows the user to tailor the digital signal processing to the specific source and their personal preferences.

For the highest possible quality of analog signal processing, the BDA-3.14 features a fully discrete Class-A output stage with balanced circuitry. The analog and digital sections are powered by separate power supplies to ensure the lowest possible noise levels. With a THD+N value of less than 0.002%, the BDA-3.14 also operates with extremely low distortion.

The output stage provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs. The XLR output delivers 4 V, while the RCA output provides 2 V. The very low noise figures of -140 dB via XLR and -134 dB via RCA underscore the high-quality design of the analog section.

The BDA-3.14 also offers numerous options for system integration. Control can be achieved via infrared, RS232, IP, or a 12-volt trigger. This allows the digital hub to be integrated into both classic hi-fi systems and complex, automated systems.

The robust aluminum housing and the precisely manufactured, anodized aluminum front panel meet Bryston's high standards of workmanship. Various front panel colors are available for individual customization to the specific system. These include silver, black, white, gunmetal grey, and champagne, as well as front panels in 18-inch or 19-inch widths.

With its combination of a high-quality DAC, integrated network streamer, extensive connectivity, and high-resolution signal processing, the Bryston BDA-3.14 is a versatile digital control center for modern high-end hi-fi systems. Combining streaming and D/A conversion in a single device reduces the complexity of the equipment while enabling convenient and powerful playback from a wide variety of digital sources.

Technical data

Design: High-end DAC with integrated network streamer

Internal connection: I²S between streamer and DAC

Integrated streamer: yes

Streamer resolution: up to 192 kHz / 24 bit

Streaming services: Tidal, Qobuz, Roon, internet radio and others

Local playback: USB or NAS drive

Streamer control: via web-enabled devices

Digital inputs: 6

Inputs: 2 × USB, AES/EBU, S/PDIF RCA, S/PDIF BNC, Toslink

PCM support: up to 384 kHz / 32 bit

DSD support: up to DSD-256 / DSD 4x

Upsampling: user-selectable for selected inputs

Analog outputs: XLR and RCA

Analog output stage: fully discrete, Class A, balanced

Power supply: separate for analog and digital circuits

Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.1 dB

THD+N: <0.002% (20Hz - 20kHz)

XLR output voltage: 4 V

RCA output voltage: 2 V

RCA noise: -134 dB

XLR noise: -140 dB

Control: Infrared, RS232, IP, 12V trigger

Housing: Aluminum

Front panel: milled and anodized aluminum

Front panel colors: Silver, Black, White, Gun Metal Grey or Champagne

Front panel width: 18 or 19 inches

Dimensions (W × H × D): approx. 43.2 or 48.3 × 8.6 × 30.5 cm

Weight: approx. 4 kg

Individual front colors and handles

Bryston appliances are available in various front panel colors, most commonly silver or black. Additionally, handles in different colors can be purchased for each Bryston appliance. The specific combination can be customized in consultation with our sales staff. This allows you to configure your appliance as precisely as possible to your personal preferences and achieve the best possible results.