MSB TECHNOLOGY LAUNCHES THE SENTINEL DAC SYSTEM, A NEW THREE-CHASSIS FLAGSHIP DESIGN
MSB Technology has announced the release of the MSB Sentinel DAC, a three-chassis digital-to-analogue conversion system representing the brand’s most ambitious project to date.
Developed over several years, the MSB Sentinel DAC System comprises the MSB Sentinel Digital Director, MSB Sentinel Analogue Converter, and MSB Sentinel Power Supply, each purpose-built to optimise performance and system synergy.
MSB SENTINEL DAC SYSTEM
At the heart of the Sentinel system is a modular approach designed to isolate functions for cleaner performance. The Sentinel Digital Director manages all digital processing and user interaction. It routes a fibre optic signa, known as Sentinel-Link, to the Analogue Converter, ensuring complete electrical isolation between digital and analogue domains.
The Sentinel Analogue Converter features a Dual Mono DAC configuration, with 32 Hybrid DAC MKII modules,16 per channel. This layout is designed to improve signal accuracy and facilitate MSB’s proprietary Bit Diffusion Technology, developed to enhance the resolution and naturalness of digital audio conversion.
Powering both the Analogue Converter and internal clock is the Sentinel Power Supply, which includes three discrete power modules. Each Mono DAC receives its own dedicated power source, while a third ultra-low noise supply is reserved for the Sentinel Clock.
PRECISION ENGINEERING
All three chassis in the MSB Technology Sentinel DAC System are built from precision-machined billet aluminium, with a focus on structural integrity and thermal management. The company employed advanced 5-axis CAM software and manufacturing techniques to achieve fine detail and fit, including a stainless steel Sentinel name badge that required microscopic-level machining.
Internally, hidden 3D circuit layouts and a clean external design maintain a compact form factor while managing system complexity. MSB advises owners to place each chassis on a separate shelf for optimal cooling and longevity.
THE MSB SENTINEL CLOCK
The system’s internal clock, known simply as the Sentinel Clock, was developed in partnership with a crystal wafer manufacturer. It features custom ovenised crystals mounted on tuned, isolated platforms to minimise mechanical interference. This level of clock precision is aimed at reducing jitter and enhancing overall sonic accuracy during digital-to-analogue conversion.
MSB SENTINEL AMP IN DEVELOPMENT, TO MATCH THE MSB SENTINEL DAC SYSTEM
Currently in development, the Sentinel Amp is designed to fully leverage the Sentinel DAC’s architecture. It will feature both traditional XLR connections and a new proprietary “Confluence” input, tailored to receive the high-current, low-impedance output from all 32 Hybrid DAC MKII modules. The amplifier is expected to deliver improved dynamic range and fine detail preservation when paired with the Sentinel DAC.
MODULARITY AND CUSTOMISATION IN THE MSB TECHNOLOGY SENTINEL DAC SYSTEM
Each Sentinel system includes four custom-configured digital input modules and allows for multiple output modes, including biamping options. Analogue inputs (both RCA and XLR) are provided on the Analogue Converter for further flexibility. Outputs include dual XLR per channel and the dedicated Confluence port for the upcoming Sentinel Amp. This modularity allows the Sentinel DAC to be tailored to a wide range of system setups while maintaining isolation between each subsystem for optimal sonic performance.
MSB SENTINEL DAC PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
The MSB Sentinel DAC System is available to order now. Pricing is $375,000 USD.
HiFi PiG Says: We can’t wait to hear the new flagship MSB Sentinel DAC system…it should be something very special.
