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DMS-300A versus DMS-650
Integrated with streaming versus pure network player: same DMS platform, different role within the system.
Both belong to the Cary Audio DMS platform, yet they occupy different roles: the DMS-650 functions as a player and converter without amplification; the DMS-300A incorporates an integrated power stage.
The choice depends on whether one desires a single unit with directly connected speakers or a reference digital source for an external amplifier.
Cary documents MQA and Wi-Fi ac in the DMS-650; the DMS-300A utilises Wi-Fi b/g/n and Cary does not list MQA on its web page.
| Appearance | DMS-300A | DMS-650 |
|---|---|---|
| Main Function | Network player + converter + integrated amplifier (75 W/ch at 8 Ω) | Network player and converter (without amplification) |
| Converter (DAC) | AKM chipset (unspecified model); 8× oversampling | 2 × AKM AK4497EQ |
| MQA | Not documented on the official web page | Compatible with MQA (16× rendering) |
| Wi-Fi | b/g/n | ac (MU-MIMO) |
| NAS Function | No documentada | Network-accessible USB/SD units |
| Connect Services | Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay, Roon Ready, DLNA | Roon Ready; TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and vTuner as per manual |
When it fits DMS-300A
When seeking a compact, single-box system with comprehensive streaming capabilities and directly connected speakers, without separate preamplifier or power stage.
When it fits DMS-650
When seeking the conversion density and the MQA/NAS ecosystem of the DMS access, with an external amplifier of superior quality or power.
Verified comparison on 19 June 2026. Based on official Cary Audio specifications.