How do you sum up MBL’s new C41 network player in one succinct sentence? US audio magazine The Absolute Sound puts it like this: “A technological marvel at a ridiculously low price” – for which MBL receives a coveted Product of the Year Award.

The C41 “incorporates unique advancements that perfect digital volume control, improve the handling of jitter, eliminate pre-ringing and eradicate clipping due to intersample peaks,” writes reviewer Jonathan Valin.

The result of “this focus on removing distortions and preserving information that is lost or obscured on other network players” is “lifelike color and solidity and [a] rare ability to conjure up near-visible presences rather than insistently drawing your ear to isolate transient details.”

“Only three other DACs can work this magic consistently,” according to Valin, “and of course they cost a lot more dough.”

MBL said, “We’re thrilled by the Award, which is an honour that underscores the C41’s remarkable innovation and excellence in digital entertainment technology. This success wouldn’t have been possible without the brilliance and dedication of its creator, Jürgen Reis, and his outstanding development team, whose collective efforts have established new standards in the industry.”

Read an extract from Valin’s full review of the C41, which appeared in the magazine’s December issue.

Discover more and locate your nearest specialist retailer at www.mbl.de/en.

You’ll find the full list of The Absolute Sound’s Product of the Year Award winners in the January 2025 issue.