The new ACMEE Magic Sound V portable digital to analog converter and headphone amplifier is capable of decoding 32-bit/384 kHz PCM signals and native DSD256 streams . The DAC block in the model is built on the ES9038Q2M chip , and the headphone amplifier section uses operational amplifiers MUSES8920 and RT6863 . The maximum power with a balanced headphone connection is 980 mW at 32 Ohms. The model has an A2D function […] More
The Pioneer PD-50AE SACD player supports a wide range of media and formats, including MQA. Pioneer’s extensive experience in manufacturing optical disc devices has enabled this player to incorporate original grip control technologies and a low-noise anti-vibration drive mechanism into this player. And thanks to the ESS ES9026PRO DAC and analog-to-digital discrete power circuit, the Pioneer PD-50AE […] More
Magnat MC400 is a fully equipped Internet CD receiver: FM, DAB+, CD, Phono MM, HDMI, Bluetooth, streaming services, multiroom. Network capabilities are improved thanks to Ethernet and Wi-Fi, and the manufacturer promises certified Hi-Res Audio electronics. The built-in terminal is built on powerful transistors of a bipolar configuration with a peak power of up to 100 […] More
The HiBy company has begun accepting pre-orders for the top-end digital player R8 II , which features many interesting technical solutions. The player’s chassis is made of high-grade stainless steel, and the back panel is covered with Alcantara, which ensures a reliable grip on the hand. The digital-to-analog conversion unit uses Darwin-MPA architecture , which includes a 16-channel DAC with current output. […] More
Italian company Norma Audio has announced the development of a new discrete digital-to-analog converter, A-DAC , which will be used in the company’s digital sources. The DAC unit was designed and developed by engineer Enrico Rossi, in which he applied several original solutions that significantly improved the sound compared to traditional integrated chip designs. At the moment, it is […] More
After months of showing off at headphone shows, FiiO this week officially announced the R9 Android-based streaming DAC and headphone amplifier. The R9 takes the R7’s vertical form factor and takes it to a higher level with a glossy “all liquid metal bicolor” design, enveloping RGB lighting and a 6″ 1080p touch panel. FiiO told me via email this morning that the R9 […] More
Taiko Audio continues to add infrastructure to its reference server and streamer – next up is the Taiko Audio Extreme Switch network switch model . It costs “only” 4,800 euros – pennies by the standards of a High End company. Taiko Audio Extreme Switch comes in a luxurious copper casing and weighs 15 kg. The model is equipped with two […] More
SMSL has released a new desktop digital-to-analog converter with preamplifier function, SU -X . The DAC section of the model is built on a dual ES9039MSPRO chip from ESS Saber , which supports conversion of 32-bit/768 kHz PCM signals and native DSD512 stream . The device also provides full decoding and conversion of MQA files . To connect digital signal sources, there are coaxial and optical inputs, an AES/EBU input, […] More
The highly anticipated Kann Ultra, the latest addition to Astell&Kern’s renowned line of Hi-Res players, is currently undergoing testing. This model marks the fifth iteration in the series, emphasizing maximum power within a compact body. Having previously reviewed the iconic debut Kann, as well as the more refined and equally captivating Kann Alpha, and the […] More
DS Audio PH-001 has been released – a special proprietary cable for connecting the company’s optical pickup heads. According to the company, the connector guarantees the opening of all possible heads built using this technology. DS Audio optical cartridges have been available since 2013 – they do not use the conventional MM/MS system, but read the movements of the stylus […] More
Shanling has started selling an updated model of its top-end digital streamer and headphone amplifier M30 Pro . The main feature of the new product is a design consisting of six modules – a main control unit, a DAC unit, a headphone amplifier, a battery plus two tube modules. Each of the blocks can be replaced during the upgrade process, […] More
Kuang Pai Plus 4 is a portable DAC/headphone amplifier based on two CS43198 chips. Notable for the presence of 3 headphone outputs – 2.5mm + 3.5mm + 4.4mm. Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs Dual CS43198 DAC decoders are specifically selected to create a 4-channel fully differential balanced output with superior resolution and control, as well as enhanced […] More
