Michi - Q5 - Transport DAC

The Michi Q5 Transport DAC is a reference-grade digital source component engineered to combine precision compact disc playback with advanced high-resolution digital-to-analog conversion. Designed as a complete digital front-end solution for premium two-channel systems, the Q5 integrates a top-loading CD transport mechanism, flagship ESS Sabre DAC architecture, and fully balanced analog circuitry within Michi’s precision-machined chassis platform.

At the core of the Q5 is an ESS Sabre ES9028PRO eight-channel DAC operating in a fully balanced differential configuration for exceptional transparency, low distortion, and dynamic realism. The top-loading CD transport mechanism is mounted within a rigid low-resonance chassis structure designed to minimize vibration and optimize disc-reading accuracy, while isolated power regulation stages preserve signal purity across digital and analog sections.

The Q5 supports extensive high-resolution PCM and MQA playback through USB, coaxial, and optical digital inputs while also functioning as a dedicated CD transport. A high-resolution front display, balanced connectivity, and sophisticated industrial design complete a digital source component engineered for uncompromising audiophile performance.

FEATURES

• Reference CD transport and DAC platform
• Top-loading CD transport mechanism
• ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC architecture
• Fully balanced differential analog output stage
• PCM playback up to 32-bit / 384kHz
• MQA and MQA Studio support
• USB audio input with asynchronous operation
• Coaxial and optical digital inputs
• AES/EBU digital output
• Coaxial digital output
• Balanced XLR analog outputs
• Single-ended RCA analog outputs
• Dedicated low-noise power supply architecture
• Precision-machined low-resonance chassis construction
• High-resolution front panel display
• Remote control included
• RS232 and Ethernet control support
• Designed and engineered in Japan

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Transport DAC
Disc Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW
DAC Configuration: ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC
Digital Audio Support: PCM up to 32-bit / 384kHz, MQA, MQA Studio
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz (+0dB, -0.15dB)
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.0006%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 115dB
Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR, Unbalanced RCA
Digital Inputs: USB Audio, Coaxial SPDIF, Optical Toslink
Digital Outputs: AES/EBU, Coaxial SPDIF
Control: RS232, Ethernet, IR Remote, 12V Trigger
Power Consumption: 40W
Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W
Dimensions (W × H × D): 19 × 6 × 17.25 in. (485 × 152 × 452 mm)
Weight: 51.8 lbs (23.5 kg)
Finish: Black