88%
Escape M1 Air
When a problem becomes an idea
Premium Hi-Fi systems are bought to be enjoyed for years. So a lot of people don't want to part with their devices, even if they are not really up to date in terms of high-resolution wireless audio streaming anymore.
That is why we developed the M1 Air streaming DAC. A universal module that can be easily connected to most HI-FI systems and supports 192kHz / 24-bit hi-res audio files.
The M1 Air is equipped with Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, Roon, Spotify Connect and Bluetooth 5.0. This allows you to easily stream music services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Qobuz, airable internet radio or podcasts from a smartphone or other mobile device.
Also the P9, the top model of the P series, can be expanded with the M1 AIR module. For this purpose a special compartment is provided under the keyboard that is already equipped with a separate audio input (AUX2) and a USB power supply connection.
A new firmware version (MCU 3.26) must be installed on the P9 to be compatible with the M1 Air. Download the file below and install it on an empty USB drive. Turn on the P9. Place the USB drive with the firmware update into the P9 USB input. The P9 will power off and power on again (all LEDs on the keyboard will turn back on). The unit has been updated.
Play music in every room of your house
Wherever you have a good wireless WIFI network available, several M1 Air's can be linked together to form a hi-res multi-room audio system. Its small design footprint allows it to be easily placed anywhere in the house and offers a wide variety of streaming options.
However, you don't have to purchase a complete system right away. You can start by connecting an M1 Air to the existing HI-FI system and later expand with, for example, the P6 Air or P9 (equipped with an M1 Air).
One application for the entire Escape range.
Use all possibilities via the Escape® Remote application for your smartphone or tablet.
Dealers selling Escape near you
Escape M1 Air — compact, feature-rich streamer
The Escape M1 Air packs surprising musicality and connectivity into a tiny, inexpensive chassis. Favoured by The Ear for its engaging timing, the M1 Air delivers remarkably detailed sound, tight bass and lively transient response via optical or analogue outputs. It supports Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Roon, Spotify Connect and Bluetooth 5.0, plus an Escape remote app and multiroom capability, making it highly versatile for modern systems. While the plastic casework keeps costs down, the emphasis on electronics yields a spacious soundstage and transparent midrange that belies the price. Ideal for listeners wanting an affordable way into hi‑res streaming or to add network streaming to portable speakers, the M1 Air stands out for punchy dynamics and exceptional value in its class.
Pros
- Engaging, well-timed presentation with strong detail retrieval and tight bass for the price.
- Comprehensive streaming and multiroom features (Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Roon, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth 5.0 and Escape app) for broad compatibility.
- Exceptional value — performance and features exceed expectations in the sub‑£/ $500 category.
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Cons
- Analogue output is less refined in the treble compared with a good external DAC.
- Modest plastic casework — build prioritises electronics over premium chassis finish.
- Reviewer was unable to play DSD via mConnect/Roon, indicating potential limitations with DSD workflow.
Sound Quality
88/100
Dynamics
88/100
The reviewer repeatedly praises the timing and snap (drums had real snap; keyboard floated above them) and specifically notes the sense of timing as 'remarkably strong.' For a compact streamer/preamp the transient response and rhythmic drive are excellent, with no comments about running out of steam.
Soundstage Imaging
88/100
The M1 Air is reported as 'good at spaciousness' with a large enveloping sound and depth of image; an upgraded power supply further opened the soundstage. Imaging and sense of space are strong relative to the product's class.
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Build Quality
82/100
Construction is modest — the reviewer notes Escape did not spend on fancy casework — but that tradeoff appears to have favored electronics. Overall chassis/detail work is basic but electronics and internal focus are highlighted as strong for the price.
Features Connectivity
89/100
Very well featured for its size/price: Chromecast, AirPlay2, Roon endpoint, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth 5.0, Escape remote app, and both analogue and optical outputs (plus adjustable preamp output voltage). This combination of streaming services, network support and a built-in DAC/line out places it well above a minimal streamer in connectivity.
Value for Money
92/100
At ~£/$199 the reviewer calls it 'inexpensive' and says it offers 'far beyond anything I've tried in the sub £500 area' and is an excellent way to explore streaming. The praise is explicit: strong performance and features at a low price deliver clear value.
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