The Burson Audio Playmate 3 is a high-end desktop DAC/amplifier that promises top-tier audio performance in a compact and elegant design. This review dives deep into the Playmate 3's features, build quality, and sonic capabilities, examining both the standard and deluxe editions. We'll explore its luxurious aluminum construction, intuitive user interface, and the impactful modular design that allows for op-amp and power module upgrades. The review also assesses its performance with a range of headphones, from in-ear monitors to demanding full-size models.Expect a detailed look at the Playmate 3's impressive specifications, including its ESS ES9390 DAC chip supporting high-resolution audio formats and its powerful Class A amplifier. We will cover the included accessories, the user-friendly menu system, and most importantly, the sound quality. This review aims to determine whether the Burson Audio Playmate 3 truly lives up to its premium price point and whether it delivers an exceptional audio experience worthy of the audiophile market.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent performance and power
- Premium build quality (anodized aluminum)
- Clever product design and choice of materials
- Modular design allowing op-amp and power module upgrades
- Supports PCM decoding up to 768kHz at 32 bits and native DSD512
- Class A amplifier providing 3.5W per channel at 16 ohms
- Easily drives most full-size headphones
- Includes line output for active speakers or external amplifiers
- Optical digital input for other music sources
- Smooth digital volume wheel with mute function
- Intuitive and easy-to-use menu system with useful features (filters, gain modes, etc.)
- Full, punchy, transparent, and natural sound presentation
- Great dynamics, sound realism, and deep soundstage
- Excellent instrument separation and detail retrieval
- Includes remote control (Deluxe Edition)
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Burson Audio Playmate 3 arrived in a sleek white box, clearly indicating the brand and model. Inside, besides the Playmate 3 itself, I found a power supply, various power plugs, USB and RCA cables, a headset splitter, an Allen wrench, additional op-amps, and a remote control (for the Deluxe Edition). The packaging was comprehensive and well-organized.
The unit itself is constructed from anodized aluminum, feeling incredibly solid and premium. The finish is excellent, contributing to the overall luxurious feel. The compact size makes it ideal for desktop use, but the sturdy metal casing feels durable and protective.
Design and Features
The Playmate 3's front panel boasts a minimalist design, featuring a standby button, a power indicator, 3.5mm and 6.3mm headphone outputs, a display screen, a high-quality metal volume knob, a menu button, and an infrared remote window. The layout is intuitive and user-friendly.
The rear panel offers a USB-C port, Toslink/optical input, RCA line outputs, and a power socket. The top and bottom of the unit are meticulously crafted, contributing to both aesthetics and functionality. The top acts as a heatsink for the Class A amplifier.
Technical Specifications and Modularity
The Playmate 3's modular design is a standout feature. Users can easily upgrade op-amps and power modules using the included Allen wrench, accessing the internal components by removing the top cover. This allows for customization and potential sound enhancements.
The DAC section uses a single ESS ES9390 chip, supporting high-resolution audio formats like PCM up to 768kHz/32-bit and native DSD512. The amplifier section utilizes either E5532 IC op-amps (standard edition) or W7 Vivid Pro op-amps (deluxe edition), with corresponding power module differences.
Remote Control and Menu System
The Deluxe Edition includes a sleek aluminum remote control, matching the unit's design. It features buttons for mute, source selection, and volume control, with well-spaced volume buttons for precise adjustments.
The Playmate 3's menu system is intuitive and provides access to various settings, including input selection, output mode (headphones, pre-out, deck out), gain control, filter settings, and more. The display shows key information such as volume, input, and sampling rate.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Playmate 3 delivers a punchy, transparent, and natural sound signature. It significantly enhanced the sound quality of my headphones, revealing details and depth I hadn't previously noticed. The amplifier section, in particular, makes a considerable difference.
While designed for full-size headphones, it can be used with IEMs, though you might be limited in volume control range in low gain mode. With full-size headphones, the Playmate 3 delivered excellent performance with a wide range of impedance, providing plenty of headroom even with demanding headphones.
Conclusion
The Burson Audio Playmate 3 is a premium desktop DAC/amplifier that delivers exceptional sound quality, build quality, and a modular design that enables upgrades. Its impressive power output handles even the most demanding headphones with ease.
While the deluxe edition is pricier, the included upgrades justify the cost for many users. Overall, the Playmate 3 provides an exceptional balance between features, performance, and price, making it a highly recommended choice for audiophiles seeking a top-tier desktop audio solution. It stands out in its class.