Does the world need another DAC and headphone amp? I would say the answer is a decided yes after listening to the smooth and accurate output of the Questyle CMA Twelve.

The CMA Twelve is a well-built device. It’s going to make a variety of headphone owners incredibly happy with its diversity of inputs and outputs, and exceptionally clean sound.

Out of the box, the Questyle CMA Twelve just exudes quality. It has a heft to it that given its small size, is a bit surprising.

I listened to a variety of unbalanced headphones and found the CMA Twelve had no trouble driving any headphones I threw at it, regardless of impedance.

The sound was always excellent, with an inaudible noise floor from the electronics. I’ve never heard a better headphone amp, and I’ve heard many over the years. I would describe the sound as neutral, yet never harsh.

Nothing I’ve heard has surpassed the clean sound coming off the CMA Twelve. No matter the source, no matter the headphones used, the CMA Twelve always sounded exemplary.

As DACs go, $1,500 for this quality is not high. It’s got multiple inputs, a beautiful fit and finish, and useful remote control. The Questyle CMA Twelve has the best sound I’ve heard from a headphone amp, it’s really quite a bargain.

Mel Martin, Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity, April 21, 2021

Click here to read the full review.