Digital Processor Reviews

Sidebar 1: Specifications

Description: Streaming digital-to-analog converter with headphone amplifier. Digital inputs: Network interface on RJ45 connector—acts as UPnP renderer in asynchronous mode, decoding all major lossless formats including FLAC, WAV, & AIFF at up to 24-bit 384kHz native sample rate, plus DSD64 & DSD128 in DFF/DSF format. Other formats include ALAC, MP3, & AAC. Some formats are limited to lower sample rates. Supports Apple AirPlay at 44.1 or 48kHz. USB 2.0 interface on a B-type connector operating in Asynchronous mode, will accept up to 24-bit PCM at up to 384kHz plus DSD64 & DSD128 in DoP format. USB-on-the-go interface on type A connector operating in Asynchronous mode, streams digital music from a flash drive at up to 24-bit 384kHz plus DSD64 and DSD128. 2x AES/EBU on 3-pin female XLR connectors. Each will accept PCM at up to 24-bit 192kHz or DSD64 in DoP format. Used as a Dual AES pair, it will accept PCM at up to 384kHz, DSD64, & DSD128 in DoP format or dCS-encrypted DSD. 2x SP/DIF on 1x RCA Phono and 1x BNC connectors. Each accept PCM at up to 24-bit 192kHz or DSD64 in DoP format. 1x SPDIF optical on a TosLink connector will accept PCM at up to 24-bit 96kHz. Analog outputs: Output levels: 0.2, 0.6, 2, or 6V rms for full-scale input, set in the menu. Balanced outputs: 1 stereo pair on 2x 3-pin XLR male connectors. Output impedance is 3 ohms, maximum load is 600 ohms (10k ohms–100k ohms is recommended). Unbalanced outputs: 1 stereo pair on 2x RCA phono connectors. Output impedance is 52 ohms, maximum load is 600 ohms (10k ohms–100k ohms is recommended). Headphone outputs: 1 stereo balanced pair on 1x 4-way male XLR connector. 1 stereo unbalanced pair on 1x 6.35mm (¼") 3-pole jack. Minimum headphone impedance is 33 ohms. MQA: Full decoding and rendering of MQA data from the Network and USB2 inputs. Final rendering of unfolded MQA data from the other inputs.
Dimensions: 17.5" (444mm) W by 4.6" (115mm) H by 17" (430mm) D. Weight: 36.8lb (16.7kg).
Finishes: Silver, Black.
Serial number of unit reviewed: BHD 0S2 1D1 1F1 1B2 S01 0055170.
Price: $15,000 with headphone amp option. Approximate number of dealers: 18. Warranty: 3 years, parts & labor, to original owner.
Manufacturer: Data Conversion Systems, Ltd., Unit 1, Buckingway Business Park,Anderson Road, Swavesey, Cambridge CB24 4AE, England, UK. Tel: (44) (0)1954-233950. US distributor: Data Conversion Systems Americas, Inc., Waltham, MA 02454-1443. Tel: (617) 314-9296. Web: dcsltd.co.uk