Bryston - BDA-3 - Digital to Analog Converter

The Bryston BDA-3 Digital to Analog Converter is a reference-grade DAC engineered for uncompromising digital playback performance across both traditional two-channel and modern high-resolution audio systems. Designed around a fully balanced dual-mono architecture, the BDA-3 delivers exceptional transparency, low noise, and dynamic precision while supporting an extensive range of digital source components.

At the heart of the design are independent AKM DACs operating in balanced differential mode alongside fully discrete Class A analog output stages. Separate analog and digital power supplies, extensive EMI/RFI shielding, and carefully optimized signal routing contribute to outstanding channel separation, timing accuracy, and low distortion performance throughout the audio chain.

The BDA-3 supports high-resolution PCM and DSD playback through multiple USB, HDMI, AES/EBU, BNC, and SPDIF inputs, making it equally suited for dedicated audio systems and advanced digital media integration. Built in Canada with Bryston’s precision aluminum chassis construction and long-term reliability standards, the BDA-3 is designed as a true reference-level digital front end.

Available Configurations:
17-inch or 19-inch faceplate configurations
Black or Silver faceplate finishes

FEATURES

• Reference dual-mono digital-to-analog converter design
• Dual AKM AK4490 DAC configuration
• Fully balanced differential DAC topology
• Discrete Class A analog output stage
• Separate analog and digital power supplies
• PCM decoding up to 32-bit / 384kHz
• Native DSD playback up to DSD256 (DSDx4)
• 4 HDMI digital audio inputs
• 2 asynchronous USB audio inputs
• AES/EBU digital input
• BNC digital input
• 2 SPDIF coaxial digital inputs
• 2 Toslink optical digital inputs
• Balanced XLR analog outputs
• Single-ended RCA analog outputs
• User-selectable upsampling
• IR remote control included
• RS-232, IP control, and 12V trigger support
• Extensive EMI/RFI shielding architecture
• Designed and manufactured in Canada

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Digital to Analog Converter
DAC Configuration: Dual AKM AK4490 DACs
Analog Output Stage: Fully Discrete Class A Balanced Design
PCM Support: Up to 32-bit / 384kHz
DSD Support: Up to DSD256 (DSDx4)
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz ±0.1dB
THD+N: <0.002%
Dynamic Range: 120dB
Output Voltage: 4V RMS (XLR), 2V RMS (RCA)
Noise: RCA: -134dB / XLR: -140dB
Digital Inputs: 4 x HDMI, 2 x USB, AES/EBU, BNC, 2 x SPDIF Coaxial, 2 x Toslink Optical
Analog Outputs: 1 Pair Balanced XLR, 1 Pair Unbalanced RCA
Control: IR Remote, RS-232, IP Control, 12V Trigger
Power Consumption: 20W
Dimensions (W × H × D): 17 or 19 × 3.4 × 12 in.
Weight: 11 lbs (5 kg)
Finishes: Black or Silver Faceplate Options