The post Chord Hugo TT 2 DAC, Preamplifier & Headphone Amplifier first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

Studio quality audio.
DacMagic 200M is Cambridge Audio’s first product to support MQA.

MQA is an award-winning British technology that delivers studio-quality sound in a file small enough to stream. TIDAL, for instance, uses MQA technology to deliver master-quality sound in their Hi-Fi membership. Cambridge Audio’s DacMagic 200M can fully decode and playback MQA files, so they sound exactly like the original studio recording.

On the product, look out for the blue MQA indicator. This indicates you are playing an MQA Studio file, which has either been approved in the studio by the artist or producer, or has been verified by the copyright owner. The green indicator is confirmation you are playing and decoding an MQA music file.

Powerful processing.
At the heart of the DacMagic 200M is a pair of extremely high-quality ESS Sabre digital- to-analogue converters. They handle digital audio files up to 32bit/768kHz or DSD512, so they can deal with digital music of any kind stored on CDs, smartphones, computers – or anywhere else, for that matter.

Once a digital file is onboard DacMagic 200M, its twin DACs convert it to analogue information with all of its dynamics and detail intact. And because the analogue signal it sends to your audio set-up is so astonishingly free of distortion, so precise and so lifelike, your system will sound more convincing and complete than it ever has before.

Well connected.
It’s possible to get digital audio files into DacMagic 200M in any number of ways. Digital optical, digital coaxial and USB inputs mean CD players, games consoles, laptops or any other digital equipment can be easily hooked up – and Bluetooth aptX reception means it’s just as straightforward to wirelessly deliver files from your smartphone or tablet too.

DacMagic 200M has both balanced and unbalanced analogue outputs, so can be easily connected to audio systems of all types, and switchable filters to give you different sonic options. And as well as its ability to deliver stunning sound to your speakers, it has a high-quality headphone amplifier with 6.3mm output on board too. So you can enjoy DacMagic 200M’s thrilling sound quality in private – at whatever volume you like.

Easy integration.
Despite the incredible number of features, the extensive functionality and the extraordinary technology on board the DacMagic 200M, Cambridge Audio has managed to fit it all into a beautifully built, flawlessly finished steel and aluminum box measuring just 52 x 215 x 191mm.

This means it will fit neatly and discreetly into any existing audio set-up without taking up loads of room or drawing too much attention to itself. All that’s required is a balanced or unbalanced connection to your system (and some mains power, of course) for DacMagic 200M to deliver you a sonic upgrade that’s way bigger than the box it comes from.

Features:

• DIGITAL TO ANALOGUE CONVERTERS: Dual ESS ES9028Q2M DACs
• DIGITAL FILTER: Selectable, Fast – Slow – Short delay
• FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10Hz to 50kHz (±1dB)
• THD+N @ 1KHZ 0DBFS: <0.0005% (A-Weighted)
• SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO; >115dB (A-Weighted)
• CROSSTALK @ 10KHZ: < -110dB
• OUTPUT IMPEDANCE:
• MAX. OUTPUT LEVEL (UNBALANCED): 2.1V rms (fixed or variable – user selectable)
• MAX. OUTPUT LEVEL (BALANCED): 4.2V rms (fixed or variable – user selectable)
• DIGITAL INPUT WORD WIDTHS SUPPORTED: 16bit (Bluetooth), 16-24bit (Optical, Coaxial), 16-32bit (USB)
• DIGITAL INPUT SAMPLING FREQUENCIES SUPPORTED: 44.1kHz to 96kHz PCM, DoP64 (Optical), 44.1kHz to 192kHz PCM, DoP64 (Coaxial), 44.1kHz to 768kHz PCM, Native DSD 64x to 512x, DoP 64x to 256x (USB)
• MQA COMPATIBILITY: Full decoding (Core + Renderer)
• BLUETOOTH: v4.2, A2DP profile, SBC and AptX codecs
• HEADPHONE OUTPUT THD+N: < 0.001% at 1kHz 0dBFS @ 100mW into 32ohm
• HEADPHONE OUTPUT S/N: > 115dB (A-Weighted)
• MAX OUTPUT POWER: >300mW @ 32ohm, >65mW @ 150ohm
• FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10Hz – 50kHz (±1dB)
• RECOMMEND HEADPHONE IMPEDANCE: 10 Ohm to 600 Ohm
• MAX POWER CONSUMPTION: 12W
• COLOR: Lunar Grey
• DIMENSIONS (HXWXD): 52 x 215 x 191mm; (2.0 x 8.6 x 7.6”)
• WEIGHT: 1.2kg/2.6lbs

The post Cambridge Audio Black DacMagic 200M Stereo DAC/headphone amplifier/preamp with built-in Bluetooth and MQA first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

The post Chord Hugo M Digital Scaler first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

Qutest, which is a What Hi-Fi? Star of CES 2018, is based on Chord’s award-winning proprietary FPGA technology developed for the class-leading Hugo 2 DAC/headphone amp, giving it proven class-leading technical and sonic performance. Perfectly equipped to bring the benefits Chord’s digital technology to a wide range of connected devices, it features a galvanically isolated USB-B, optical and coaxial digital input, giving an instant performance upgrade, plus the ability to modernize ageing digital source components.

The Qutest chassis is all-new, too. It has significantly greater mass than its predecessor and has been precision-machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminum billet. The Qutest PCB nestles within a shallow cavity in the solid aluminum chassis, giving the circuit board greater protection within the casework and additional isolation from external vibration compared to previous designs.

Qutest offers Hugo 2’s proprietary user-selectable frequency-shaping filters and input selection controls, available via two fascia-mounted spheres, introducing useful flexibility. It also features RCA analogue outputs for connection to integrated amplifiers, preamps and headphone amps, plus high-resolution dual-data digital inputs for connection to future Chord Electronics products.

A further new feature is a user-selectable output voltage available in 1, 2 and 3V RMS outputs for flexible connectivity with a wide range of partnering devices.

Features:

• Materials: Precision machined aluminum casing with polycarbonate buttons and glass viewing portal. Available in black.
• Device Power Supply: 5v 2amp Micro USB
• Connectivity (input)
• USB Type B (White): 44.1kHz – 768kHz – 16bit – 32bit
• 2x BNC Coax (Red): 44.1kHz – 384kHz – 16bit – 32bit
• 1x Dual data mode input (using both BNC coax inputs together): 44.1kHz – 768kHz – 16bit – 32bit
• Optical (Green): 44.1kHz – 192kHz – 16bit – 24bit
• Connectivity (output): 1x stereo pair of RCA (Left and Right)
• PCM support: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 358.8kHz, 384kHz, 717.6kHz, and 768kHz.
• DSD support: Native playback supported. DSD64 (Single) to DSD512 (Octa-DSD
• Variable output: Fixed, but selectable between 3v (blue), 2v (green), and 1v (red) via dual press of ‘Filter’ + ‘Input’ upon startup
• Driver support: Driverless with Mac OS X and Linux, driver required for Windows OS
• Digital Designer: Rob Watts
• Mechanical Designer: John Franks
• Country of manufacture: England

Included Accessories

• 1.5m 5v 2a Switching Micro USB Power Supply
• 2m Type A to Type B USB Cable
• Qutest Owners Overview Manual
• Raw Silk Drawstring Bag

Specs

• Chipset: Chord Electronics custom coded Xilinx Artix 7 (XC7A15T) FPGA
• Tap-length: 49,152
• Pulse array: 10 element pulse array design
• Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
• Output stage: Class A
• THD: <0.0001% 1kHz 3v RMS 300Ω
• THD and noise at 3v RMS: 117dB at 1kHz 300ohms ‘A’ weighted (reference 2.5v)
• Noise 2.6 uV ‘A’ weighted: No measurable noise floor modulation
• Channel separation: 138dB at 1kHz 300 ohms
• Weight: 1.7 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.61” (H) x 6.29” (W) x 2.83” (D)
• Boxed Weight: 3.3 lbs.
• EAN: 5060295370122
• MPN: CHCH250B

The post Chord Electronics Qutest DAC first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

The post MOON 681 Network Player / DAC first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

Head Box S2 Digital comes fully equipped for the highest demands of the modern audiophile. It supports playback for PCM files up to 32bit / 768kHz and DSD decoding up to quad DSD (DSD256). Head Box S2 Digital also comes with five digital filters for sound shaping to the listeners preferences. Three digital inputs ensure to connect to any source available, be it a personal computer via the USB B input or a TV set via the optical input.

The coaxial S/PDIF input takes all data from a digital transport such as the CD Box DS2 T. All inputs offer support for high resolution data up to 24bit /192kHz. The USB input offers full high resolution support for all files up to PCM 32/768 and DSD256. The front seated 6.35mm headphone output delivers a clean and precise sound with a musical touch. Unwanted noise coming in through USB is double filtered to suppress them to a level where it can’t affect audio to realize an undisturbed listening experience. The new aluminium/metal casing ensures the highest aesthetics and protects against vibration and interference! Head Box S2 Digital comes in silver or black.

Features:

• High end ESS Sabre ESS9038 DAC
• Proprietary clock circuity design
• Organic polymer capacitors and thin film miniMELF resistors
• 32bit / 768kHz decoding
• DSD64, DSD128 & DSD256 (DSD over PCM)
• Up to 24bit/192kHz for optical & coax inputs
• 5 selectable digital filter characteristics
• 1 proprietary optimum transient digital filter
• Headphone output on the front (6.3mm)
• Synchronization of all internal oscillators
• Jitter as low as 100 Femtoseconds!
• Gold plated four layer PCB
• Full alu/metal sandwich casing in silver or black
• Specs
• Digital inputs: 1x USB (B), 1x Co-axial (RCA), 1x Optical (TOSLink)
• D/A-converter: 1x ESS9038Q2M 32 bit
• USB: up to DSD256, PCM up to 32b/768kHz
• Coaxial: PCM bis 24 b / 192 kHz
• Optical: PCM bis 24 b / 192 kHz
• Filter settings: 5 different selectable on front
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Analogue outputs: 6.3mm Headphone (front), 1x Pre Out (RCA)
• Output voltage: 2,05 Veff
• Headphone output power: 68 mW /32 Ohm, 6.6 mW / 600 Ohm
• THD: 0,0007% at 0 dB, 2 V RMS, 1 kHz
• Dynamic range: 120 dBA
• Outboard Power supply: 5 V /1 A DC (included)
• Dimensions W x H x D: 103 x 37 x 122 (including knob and connectors)
• Weight: 360 g without power supply

The post Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Headphone Amplifier first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

The new M-DAC+ is a high-performance, multi-purpose audio DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) for home use, designed to sit on a desk or table, or integrate into a hi-fi system. It incorporates a highly specified, audiophile-quality digital preamplifier and Class A output stage for connection to a power amp and speakers (the output can be fixed for those who wish to use an existing preamp or integrated amp), in addition to a high-quality output for headphone use.

Overview: Redefining a Classic

The new M-DAC+ is based firmly on the classic M-DAC, with carefully targeted improvements in key areas – a logical move, given the original model’s sustained popularity over the last four years. The M-DAC built a peerless reputation with press and public alike since its launch in the autumn of 2011, scooping multiple Product of the Year Awards from the likes of What Hi-Fi?, Hi-Fi Choice and EISA to make it arguably the most critically acclaimed DAC component ever made. “The audiolab M-DAC+ gets an awful lot right – so much, in fact, it comfortably justifies its ‘+’ designation”. ~ What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision, June 2016.

Technology: The Finest DAC Circuitry

Like the M-DAC, the M-DAC+ incorporates the ES9018 Sabre Reference 32-bit DAC chipset, still widely regarded as the finest available. This is surrounded by exceptionally well-specified circuitry that puts other similarly priced DACs to shame, including a proprietary, discrete master clock to minimize jitter, coupled with extensive time domain isolation. A JFET Class A output stage ensures that the audio signal, following conversion from the digital domain to analogue, is of the highest quality.

Technology: High Performance with DSD

Under the hood lie a number of performance-related enhancements. The M-DAC+ now processes audio data up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB; this is a far higher specification than that required by current hi-res music formats, ensuring this new, premium-quality addition to the M-DAC family is fully equipped for future advances in ultra-high-definition digital sound.

The USB input now also accepts DSD files (the digital audio system originally developed for Super Audio CD), offering compatibility with DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256. This is a significant addition, as DSD has an important role to play in the developing high-resolution digital download scene.

Technology: Adjustable sound for all sources and tastes

As digital audio technology has progressed, the importance of the characteristics of reconstruction digital filters has become more appreciated. Like the classic M-DAC, the M-DAC+ features user-selectable filters for optimal listening and measurement modes, in addition to more conventional types for easy comparison. These filter settings allow the user to tune performance to suit his or her preference, depending on system configuration, digital file quality and musical taste. The M-DAC+ inherits seven filter settings from the M-DAC for PCM files and adds four more for DSD playback, allowing the user to optimize the noise floor to suit the performance of the source file and the bandwidth of associated equipment such as amps and speakers.

Enhanced Sonic Performance

Another important change relates to the power supply, which has been upgraded and is now incorporated within the M-DAC+’s chassis (hence its slightly taller and deeper case compared to the classic M-DAC). A precision-wound toroidal transformer uses multiple windings to feed separate analogue and digital rectification stages. From there, multiple power supply sections feed the necessary voltages to each area of the DAC, keeping any crossover interference to a minimum. The result is the highest performance power supply Audiolab engineers have yet specified for a DAC, and its contribution to the M-DAC+’s enhanced sonic performance is significant.

M-Dac+ Specifications:

The post Audiolab M-DAC+ Digital-to-Analogue Converter first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

To this specification the new 8300CDQ adds high-quality analogue preamp circuitry, coupled to three stereo pairs of line-level RCA inputs to connect analogue sources. The preamp circuitry is kept as simple as possible using high-quality components to maintain signal purity, with line input signals passing to a precision analogue volume stage. Much effort has gone into the physical layout of the 8300CDQ’s circuitry, protecting the sensitive preamp section from noise interference.

Technology: MQA

Taking it to the next level the 8300CDQ now includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download.

Overview: The Sound of Science

The 8300CDQ adds further flexibility by incorporating a dedicated direct-coupled headphone amp with current-feedback circuitry. Accessed via a front-mounted 6.35mm socket, its gain bandwidth and high slew rate ensure a dynamic, detailed and engaging performance with all manner of headphone types.

The final key feature introduced in the 8300CDQ is decoding of MQA (Master Quality Authenticated). The brainchild of Meridian Audio co-founder Bob Stuart, MQA is a digital audio format designed for high-resolution music streaming and is available via subscription to Tidal’s ‘HiFi’ tier (among other sources). The 8300CDQ unpacks MQA data – received via the USB input – at the original file’s full resolution and passes the signal through its DAC and preamp stages, ready to feed a power amp or active speakers.

Audiolab’s MQA decoding solution was developed by John Westlake, one of Britain’s foremost digital audio experts. There are various ways to enable MQA playback on audio devices, and not all are equal sonically. Westlake’s solution maximizes the format’s potential, just as the 8300CDQ’s design draws the best sound quality from other audio codecs and, of course, CDs

Launched in 2010, the original Westlake-designed Audiolab CD players – the 8200CD and 8200CDQ– were universally acclaimed for their superb sound quality and flexible facilities. In 2015, the 8300 Series arrived and both 8200 Series players were replaced by the 8300CD, building upon its predecessors’ formidable reputation. It has taken until now for this player to be joined by the enhanced 8300CDQ, further developing Audiolab’s classic line of CD players to reach still greater heights.

Aside from the additional functionality outlined above, the 8300CDQ draws upon the exemplary circuitry contained with the existing 8300CD, including:

• Slot-loading CD transport mechanism

Fast in operation and neat in design, the 8300CDQ’s slot-loading CD transport delivers excellent reliability. A read-ahead digital buffer reduces disc-reading errors, enabling scratched CDs that are unreadable by conventional mechanisms to be played. High disc stability and low susceptibility to resonance contribute to the 8300CDQ’s superb CD sound quality.

• High-resolution digital inputs

Five digital inputs comprise 1x asynchronous USB and 4x S/PDIF (2x coaxial and 2x optical). Hi-res digital audio is supported up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256, and USB HID compatibility enables driverless control of a connected PC, Mac or media player.

• 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC

The CD transport and digital inputs feed a DAC section with an ESS Sabre32 Reference chip nestling at its heart, utilising HyperStream architecture and ESS Technology’s Time Domain Jitter Eliminator to deliver ultra-low noise and high dynamic range. No company knows more about making the most of this 32-bit, eight-channel hybrid multi-bit Delta-Sigma DAC technology than Audiolab; the 8200CD and 8200CDQ were among the first audio components to use it and the company has been honing its implementation ever since. The conversion process involves 512 DAC elements (256 per channel) each operating at 84.672MHz – all digital audio sources, whatever the sample rate, are upsampled or oversampled to this frequency.

• Exemplary jitter reduction

Around the DAC chip are extensive measures to reduce jitter (digital distortion) to vanishingly low levels. Careful circuit layout and low-noise power supplies complement the DAC’s patented Sabre32 sample rate converter and clever DPLL (Digital Phase Locked Loop) circuit, radically reducing time domain errors from all digital input sources.

• Time domain isolation

While the Sabre32 sample rate converter virtually eliminates jitter within the digital domain, external ‘analogue domain’ induced artifacts caused by RF breakthrough, PSU coupling and so on will affect the DAC’s sonic performance. Audiolab resolves this issue via its CATDA (Cascaded Asynchronous Time Domain Attenuator) circuit. This circuit isolates the DAC substrate from sonically deleterious artifacts that affect non-synchronous digital input data. To achieve the best possible performance, three identical cascaded stages are used – each individual stage provides increased isolation, thereby maximizing timing performance, even at higher RF frequencies.

• Selectable digital filters

As digital audio reproduction technology has progressed, the importance of the characteristics of reconstruction digital filters has become more appreciated. The Audiolab 8300CDQ features seven user-selectable filters for PCM audio data (including CD) and four ultrasonic filters for DSD data. These settings allow the user to tune the 8300CD’s performance according to system configuration, digital file quality and personal taste.

• Discrete Class A analogue stages and sophisticated power supply

The 8300CDQ’s analogue output stages and power supply are exceptionally well specified in the pursuit of sonic excellence. The circuitry includes a large, low-noise toroidal transformer, a plethora of reservoir/smoothing capacitors, an impressive number of regulator chips and discrete transistor (instead of op-amp) analogue stages at the output with ultra-low impedance to drive any cable and any load. The power supply incorporates 29 regulated supply rails including multiple ultra-low-noise regulators, with extensive measures against power supply contamination and cross-coupling.

8300CDQ Specifications

The post Audiolab 8300CDQ Stereo Pre-amp with Built-in DAC and CD Player first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

The dual mono structure processes stereo signals with higher purity, and the D/A converter section uses one ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M in each of the left and right channels.

This model achieves a high signal-to-noise ratio by using each DAC in mono mode. Moreover, we upgraded it with high specifications that enable native playback of 22.5MHz DSD and 768kHz/32bit PCM formats. In the analog processing section, which can be considered the key to audio quality, we include four TEAC-HCLD2 circuits. These are improved versions of our previous TEAC-HCLD. For headphone output using the newly-adopted diamond buffer circuit, in addition to two standard 6.3mm connectors, one 4.4mm 5-pole headphone connector is available, enabling balanced connection and active ground connection with a single plug.

The Bluetooth® receiver supporting LDAC and Qualcomm® aptX HD allows you to enjoy high-quality wireless audio streaming from your smartphone on this reference USB DAC.

New diamond buffer circuit for the headphone amplifier section
Employing a pair of 1/4″ (6.3mm) phone jacks and a 4.4mm 5-pole jack for balance drive with either single or dual cable connection,while allowing you to connect two headphones simultaneously with single-end connection.

High quality wireless audio playback via Bluetooth®
Supporting Hi-Res quality wireless codec LDAC and Qualcomm® aptX HD, in addition to conventional AAC and SBC codec, the UD-505-X allows you to enjoy high quality sound processed by high performance DACs at ease with your smartphone/tablet.

ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M high-performance DAC supports resolutions up to 22.5MHz DSD and 768kHz/32bit PCM
We have employed one DAC chip, which is a crucial component for digital audio, in each of the stereo channels. The ESS Technology ES9038Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC that we use has a strong reputation in the high-end audio market. Using 32-bit HyperStream® II DAC architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, which are ESS original technologies, an outstanding dynamic range is realized and linearity is increased in the D/A conversion. As a result, clear and accurate audio playback with superior.

Dual monaural circuit design and fully-balanced design
A dual monaural circuit configuration is used throughout, from the power supply (including power transformers), to the D/A converters in the digital section and the Analog output stage. From the high-performance D/A converters to the massive toroidal-core power transformers, each element is configured for single channel processing. This prevents mutual interference effects while reproducing a rich acoustic expressiveness. In addition, the Analog audio signals of both the left and right channels are processed in full balanced mode soon after the D/A converters all the way to the output terminal, contributing to an improved S/N ratio and extended dynamic range.

This allows the fantastic sense of air that Hi-Res formats possess to be processed and conveyed without any losses.

High-quality wireless audio streaming via Bluetooth®
In addition to conventional SBC and AAC codecs, the UD-505-X also supports LDAC (24bit/96kHz Hi-Res audio transmission), and Qualcomm® aptX HD, a codec that uses 24bit/48kHz format transmission. These allow you to playback playlists on your smartphone and tablet wirelessly.

Dual onboard clocks for 44.1kHz and 48kHz, and an external clock input
Instead of referencing to an unstable and noisy PC clock during USB audio playback, a more accurate and on-board clock is generated by a high-precision, low phase-noise, audio-grade crystal oscillator for USB asynchronous transfer mode. The UD-505-X accommodates two on-board clocks exclusively for 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling frequencies and applies the appropriate one to incoming digital signals – those that are multiples of 44.1k or 48k – to reproduce identical sound to the original by eliminating jitter effects on the audio signal.

In addition, an external 10MHz clock input is also provided, to synchronize with an even higher-precision master clock generator, such as the TEAC CG-10M/CG-10M-A, for yet further upgraded audio playback with excellent sound quality.

Up-conversion up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and 24.5MHz DSD
Employing RDOT-NEO (Refined Digital Output Technology NEO), a fluency algorithm that renders digital audio signals smoothly, the UD-505-X up-converts PCM digital signals up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and 24.5MHz DSD. With the up-conversion function activated, you will hear an improvement in quality, even with music that you are familiar with.

“Bulk Pet” USB transfer technology for enhanced audio quality
When transferring large volumes of digital data for Hi-Res audio sources through USB cables using conventional isochronous transfer mode, large variations can occur in the processing loads of the sending computer and the receiving USB DAC.

This can cause sound to drop out and other problems to occur. However, with our new USB transmission technology – dubbed “Bulk Pet” – a fixed amount of data is transmitted constantly, levelling out the processing burden on both devices and contributing to stable data transmission. Changing the processing burden on the computer directly affects audio quality so users can select the setting they prefer (from four transmission modes).

Seven types of PCM digital filter
Seven types of PCM digital filters are available in this model. This allows you to choose the best filter according to the input file format and music style. Since the filter can be changed with a single operation of the included remote control, you can easily enjoy the differences in the subtle sound nuances of each filter type. The unit can also be used with no enabled filters.

Dual high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers
The dual monaural theme continues. Two over-sized high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers are employed in the UD-505-X, supplying stable, individual current sources for each of the left and right channels. This means neither channel will be affected by changes in the power consumption of the other during digital processing.

Improved TEAC-HCLD2 enhanced-current output buffer amp circuit
We employed the TEAC-HCLD 2 for the analog output circuit. This is a further improved version of the TEAC-HCLD circuit enhanced-current output buffer amp that increases crucial current output capacity (HCLD: High Current Line Driver). This model now uses line buffer ICs with extremely high current output capacity. By using a positive-negative two-circuit structure for each channel, drive can be differential with balanced output and parallel with unbalanced output. Transmitting audio signals without degrading their dynamism becomes possible with increased current supply capacity.

TEAC-QVCS four-circuit-structure high-precision volume control newly incorporated for preamp circuits
TEAC-QVCS (Quad Volume Control System) is used for the volume circuit. This electronic volume control is a variable gain amp type comprised of four discrete circuits for left, right, positive and negative (L+, L−, R+, R−). By placing the variable gain amp volume control, which processes in analog, in the audio signal path on the circuit board, issues with noise resulting from diverging wiring are avoided. Furthermore, this TEAC-QVCS enables volume adjustment in 0.5dB increments, allowing you to set the perfect volume for your audio system or headphones.

Discrete circuit design with balanced drive
The UD-505-X’s headphone amplifier circuit provides balanced-drive by using the TEAC-HCLD2 circuit, – comprised of four output transistors for each left and right channel – for headphone output. With challenging 600Ω high-impedance headphones for example, the UD-505-X allows you to bring out the potential of these type of headphones.

Pentaconn, a single-plug connector for balanced headphone drive
In addition to the dual conventional 6.3mm (¼”) TRS jacks for balanced connection, the UD-505-X employs a 4.4mm 5-pole headphone jack for balanced drive. At the 6.3mm TRS jack, you can enjoy 3 kinds of drive type, unbalanced connection to drive up to 2 sets headphones, and active-ground drive that is effective to improve the silence and present the sensitive sound, as well as balanced connection.

Active-ground drive offers a new headphone drive mode
The active-ground is a new driving mode that employs the principles of balanced connection. It forcefully drives the ground, by lowering the ground level to 0V, providing an ideal ground condition (rather than just connecting to the conventional ground). This means it also suppresses hum noise from the power supply and enhances the purity of silent pauses by lowering the noise floor. Subtle detail, such as the breathing of artists and the textures of sounds, will feel even more convincing.

Full-metal body for functionality and beauty
Since the entire body is constructed from metal panels that are resistant to external noise, intrusion of electromagnetic noise generated by computers and other devices is suppressed. A clean internal environment with little noise has been realized even in conditions that are difficult for audio equipment. Furthermore, 8mm-thick aluminum panels covering both sides of the all-metal chassis provide a strong and stable structure that prevents twisting and bending. Moreover, with the size of an A4 page* (viewed from above), the unit can be placed on a desk, side table or other small space.

* This excludes the connectors, knobs and other protrusions.

Symmetrically laid out XLR and RCA output jacks
The UD-505-X is equipped with both balanced and unbalanced Analog audio outputs. A pair of XLR connectors and another pair of RCA connectors – each gold-plated – are symmetrically laid out, hinting at the dual monaural arrangement inside, and allowing a wide range of possible audio configurations. A wide-spaced pitch layout for the RCA outputs accommodates professional grade plugs with large-diameter shells. The UD-505-X has a total of 5 digital inputs: USB audio, coaxial, optical on the rear panel, and a combination jack on the front panel (for coaxial and optical, supporting PCM 24bit/192kHz and DSD64 (2.8MHz) in DoP format).

Newly-developed Stressless Foot design
Our newly-developed original Stressless Foot design with three support points enables stable placement of the unit so that it is not impacted by slight irregularities in the surface beneath it. Compared to the original feet used in previous designs, these feet are only partially fixed to the chassis. This design was developed based on the concept that by allowing the feet to vibrate freely, more natural sound reverberations could be achieved. The tops of the conical feet, which are made of machined steel, are attached so that they hang from the bottom of the chassis and swing freely when the unit is lifted. While maintaining a sense of placement like that of the pin-point spiked feet used by previous models, this design enables more natural rich reverberations.

Semi-floating design Top Panel
A semi-floating structure is newly used for the top panel. It has achieved a sound with an excellent sense of openness.

Free TEAC HR Audio Player software for DSD512 playback on both Windows and Mac
The next-generation Hi-Res formats, DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 768kHz/32-bit are supported via the TEAC HR Audio Player software for Windows and Mac. This software guarantees the best available playback quality with any combination of audio format and computer configuration via a single USB cable. All the user has to do is choose the UD-505-X from the pull-down menu showing target output devices. The TEAC HR Audio Player is downloadable from TEAC’s web site, and is completely free to use.

Features at a glance:

• Hi-Res audio playback supporting DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 768kHz/32bit PCM
• An ESS Technology ES9038Q2M converter each for left and right channels
• Dual on-board clocks for 44.1kHz and 48kHz frequencies
• 7 types of PCM digital filters
• Up-conversion up to 24.5MHz DSD and 384kHz/32bit PCM
• 10MHz external clock input
• Bluetooth® receiver supporting LDAC, Qualcomm® aptX HD, AAC and SBC
• Original TEAC-HCLD2 enhanced-current output buffer circuit
• Dual monaural circuit design
• Dual toroidal-core power transformers for each channel
• TEAC-QVCS quad volume control system
• 4.4mm 5-polar Pentaconn*1 jack and dual 1/4” (6.3mm) TRS jacks for balanced and active-ground drives
• Full-dot OLED display with dimmer function
• Newly-developed “Stressless Foot” design with three support points
• Semi-floating design Top Panel
• Bulk Pet*2 USB transferring technology with four transfer modes for various sound characters
• Free TEAC HR Audio Player for Windows/Mac
• *1 ”Pentaconn” is a registered trademark of NIPPON DICS Co., Ltd., complies with the RC-8141C JEITA standard.
• *2 ”Bulk Pet” is a registered trademark of Interface Corporation.

Spec description

Supported formats
USB input
PCM	16/24/32 bit 44.1k/48k/88.2k/96k/176.4k/192k/352.8k/384k/705.6k/768k Hz
DSD	2.8M/5.6M/11.2M/22.5M Hz
Coaxial digital input
PCM	16/24 bit 32k/44.1k/48k/88.2k/96k/176.4k/192k Hz
DSD	2.8MHz(supported with 176.4kHz/24-bit DoP format)
Optical digital input
PCM	16/24 bit 32k/44.1k/48k/88.2k/96k/176.4k/192k Hz
DSD	2.8MHz(supported with 176.4kHz/24-bit DoP format)
DAC section
USB DAC	ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M ×2
Up-conversion	up to 384kHz/32-bit PCM, 24.5MHz DSD
Audio inputs
USB	USB B port, USB 2.0, asynchronous mode transfer, bulk transfer
Compatible Software	TEAC HR Audio Player (Windows, Macintosh)
COAXIAL digital (rear)	RCA pin ×1 (gold-plated)
Input level	0.5Vp-p
Input impedance	75Ω
Optical digital (rear)	TOS-link ×1
Input level	-24.0 to -14.5dBm peak
Coaxial digital (front)	1/8” (3.5mm) mini* ×1 (combined with optical digital input, detected automatically)
Input level	0.5Vp-p
Input impedance	75Ω * 1/8” Mini – RCA conversion cable included.
Optical digital (front)	1/8” Mini Optical*×1 (combined with coaxial digital input, detected automatically)
Input level	-24.0 to -14.5dBm peak
Analog (rear)	RCA pin ×1 pair (gold-plated)
Input impedance	24kΩ
Input sensitivity	130mV
Bluetooth®
Bluetooth® version	4.0
Output class	Class2 (Range: approx. 33ft/10m)
Supported profiles	A2DP, AVRCP
Content protection	SCMS-T
Supported codec	LDAC, Qualcomm® aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
No. of paired device	maximum 8 devices
Audio outputs
XLR balanced	XLR ×1 pair (gold-plated)
Output level	Fixed (0dB), fixed (+6dB), variable, output off (selectable)
Maximum output leve	2.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (0dB)) 4.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (+6dB)) 12.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to variable)
Output impedance	188Ω
RCA unbalanced	RCA pin ×1 pair (gold-plated)
Output level	Fixed (0dB), fixed (+6dB), variable, output off (selectable)
Maximum output leve	2.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (0dB)) 4.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (+6dB)) 6.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to variable)
Output impedance	150Ω
Headphone outputs
Connector 1	1/4” (6.3mm) TRS stereo jacks ×2 (gold-plated)
Polarity (balanced)	Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: NC (GND)
Polarity (unbalanced)	Tip: L, Ring: R, Sleeve: GND
Connector 2	4.4mm 5-pole Pentaconn ×1 (gold-plated)
Polarity (balanced)	Tip: L+, Ring1: L-, Ring2: R+, Ring3: R-, Sleeve: GND
Maximum output
Balanced	700mW + 700mW (into 32Ω)
Unbalanced	500mW + 500mW (into 32Ω×1) 350mW + 350mW(into 32Ω×2)
Active ground	500mW + 500mW (into 32Ω)
Supported impedances	16 to 600Ω
Clock section
Internal clock
Type	Crystal oscillator
Number of clocks	2 (44.1kHz and 48kHz)
External clock input
Connector	BNC (gold-plated)
Input frequency	10MHz
Input impedance	50Ω
Input level	Rectangle wave: equivalent to TTL levels Sine wave: 0.5 to 1.0 Vrms
Audio performance
Frequency Response	10 to 80,000 Hz (+1/–3 dB, 192kHz PCM input, RCA output, digital filter off)
Total harmonic distortion	0.002% or less (192kHz PCM input, RCA output, digital filter off)
S/N ratio	110dB or higher (192kHz PCM input, RCA output, digital filter off)
Power supply
US/Canada	AC 120V 60Hz
UK/Europe	AC 220 to 240V 50Hz
Power consumption	18W (0.4W in standby)
dimensions (including protrusions)	290(W)×84.5(H)×248.7(D) mm / 11.4”(W)×3.3”(H)×9.8”(D)
Weight	4.1kg / 9.1lbs
Included accessories	Power cord, RCA mini plug adapter cable, remote control(RC-1330), 2 AAA batteries for remote control, 3 feet cushions, Owner’s Manual(with warranty)

 

Up-conversion table

Input Frequency		Up-converted Frequency
Coax/Opt	USB	off	2Fs	4Fs	8Fs	DSD256	DSD512
32kHz	–	32kHz	64kHz	128kHz	256kHz	8MHz	16MHz
44.1kHz	44.1kHz	44.1kHz	88.2kHz	176.4kHz	352.8kHz	11.2MHz	22.5MHz
88.2kHz	88.2kHz	88.2kHz	88.2kHz	176.4kHz	352.8kHz	11.2MHz	22.5MHz
176.4kHz	176.4kHz	176.4kHz	176.4kHz	176.4kHz	352.8kHz	11.2MHz	22.5MHz
–	352.8kHz	352.8kHz	352.8kHz	352.8kHz	352.8kHz	11.2MHz	22.5MHz
–	705.6kHz	705.6kHz	705.6kHz	705.6kHz	705.6kHz	11.2MHz	22.5MHz
48Hz	48Hz	48kHz	96kHz	192kHz	384kHz	12.2MHz	24.5MHz
96kHz	96kHz	96kHz	96kHz	192kHz	384kHz	12.2MHz	24.5MHz
192kHz	192kHz	192kHz	192kHz	192kHz	384kHz	12.2MHz	24.5MHz
–	384kHz	384kHz	384kHz	384kHz	384kHz	12.2MHz	24.5MHz
–	768kHz	768kHz	768kHz	768kHz	768kHz	12.2MHz	24.5MHz

No conversion

* Maximum up-conversion rate is 8Fs.

 

The post TEAC UD-505-X USB DAC, Headphone Amp in Black first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.

This model achieves a high signal-to-noise ratio by using each DAC in mono mode. Moreover, when used as a USB DAC, its high specifications enable native playback of 22.5MHz DSD and 768kHz/32bit PCM formats. The Analog section, which is one of the keys to sound quality, includes four TEAC-HCLD2 buffer amp circuits that allow different drive modes, – fully-balanced drive for balanced output, and parallel drive mode for unbalanced output – to achieve enhanced acoustic expression.

On the network audio side, the NT-505-X supports high-quality music subscription services, namely TIDAL, Qobuz and Roon Ready*. There’s also a built-in MQA decoder, and you will enjoy unlimited music content on the Internet thanks to its high-quality digital and Analog processing technologies.

Furthermore, you can also enjoy wireless playback from smart devices with high audio quality thanks to the high performance specifications of the DAC.

* Not every service is available in every country.

ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M high-performance DAC supports resolutions up to 22.5MHz DSD and 768kHz/32bit PCM
We have employed one DAC chip, a crucial component for digital audio, in each of the stereo channels. The ESS Technology ES9038Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC we use has a strong reputation in the high-end audio market. Using 32-bit HyperStream® II DAC architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator (both of which are ESS original technologies), an outstanding dynamic range is realized, and linearity is increased in the D/A conversion. As a result, clear and accurate audio playback with superior dynamic characteristics has been made possible.

Dual monaural circuit design and fully-balanced design
A dual monaural circuit configuration is used throughout, from the power supply (including power transformers), to the D/A converters in the digital section and the Analog output stage. From the high-performance D/A converters to the massive toroidal-core power transformers, each element is configured for single channel processing. This prevents mutual interference effects while reproducing a rich acoustic expressiveness. In addition, the Analog audio signals of both the left and right channels are processed in full balanced mode soon after the D/A converters all the way to the output terminal, contributing to an improved S/N ratio and extended dynamic range.

This allows the fantastic sense of air that Hi-Res formats possess to be processed and conveyed without any losses.

Support for popular and convenient network functions, including OpenHome and Roon Ready
Common control apps that support OpenHome can be used with the NT-505-X, which also supports this platform. Moreover, playlists on the NT-505-X can be managed using TEAC HR Streamer and other control apps that support OpenHome. Gapless playback is also supported. With support for Roon Ready, functions provided by RAAT (Roon Advanced Audio Transport), including high-quality audio playback, easy and convenient operation using apps, and multi-room synchronized playback, can be used without limits.* Support for Roon Ready will be added in a firmware update made available after product release.

Supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, and TuneIn
By connecting the unit to a home network using a LAN cable, music files saved on NAS music servers and computers can be accessed and played back. In addition, this unit also supports the Spotify, TIDAL, and Qobuz subscription Internet music streaming services. These enable listening to tens of millions of lossless CD-quality (44.1kHz/16bit) music tracks.

MQA decoder for master quality streaming
In order to achieve an Analog waveform closer to the original signal, the NT-505-X supports MQA decoding while also supporting high sampling rate Hi-Res formats like DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 32bit/768kHz. The MQA decoder is a totally new technology that controls Analog waveforms with excellent precision (as fine as 5 microseconds) and it reproduces sound in a manner that is perceived to be as close as possible to the original (to human hearing).

Furthermore, a high-efficiency compression algorithm makes huge Hi-Res audio files compact in size, so you will be able to enjoy Hi-Res audio sources regardless of the speed of your Internet connection.

High-quality wireless audio streaming via Bluetooth®
In addition to conventional SBC and AAC codecs, the NT-505-X also supports LDAC (24bit/96kHz Hi-Res audio transmission), and Qualcomm® aptX HD, a codec that uses 24bit/48kHz format transmission. These allow you to playback playlists on your smartphone and tablet wirelessly.

Hi-Res audio playback from USB flash drive
The USB port on the front panel allows you to playback Hi-Res audio formats including DSD128 (5.6MHz) and PCM 24bit/192kHz downloaded from Internet or digitally recorded with the SD-500HR.

Dual onboard clocks for 44.1k and 48kHz, and an external clock input
Instead of referencing an unstable and noisy PC clock during USB audio playback, a more accurate and on-board clock is generated by a high-precision, low phase-noise, audio-grade crystal oscillator for USB asynchronous transfer mode. The NT-505-X accommodates two on-board clocks exclusively for 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling frequencies and applies the appropriate one to incoming digital signals – those that are multiples of 44.1k or 48k – to reproduce identical sound to the original by eliminating jitter effects on the audio signal.

In addition, an external 10MHz clock input is also provided, to synchronize with an even higher-precision master clock generator, such as the TEAC CG-10M/CG-10M-A, for yet further upgraded audio playback with excellent sound quality.

Up-conversion up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and 24.5MHz DSD
Employing RDOT-NEO (Refined Digital Output Technology NEO), a fluency algorithm that renders digital audio signals smoothly, the NT-505-X up-converts PCM digital signals up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and 24.5MHz DSD. With the up-conversion function activated, you will hear an improvement in quality, even with music that you are familiar with.

“Bulk Pet” USB transfer technology for enhanced audio quality
When transferring large volumes of digital data for Hi-Res audio sources through USB cables using conventional isochronous transfer mode, large variations can occur in the processing loads of the sending computer and the receiving USB DAC.

This can cause sound to drop out and other problems to occur. However, with our new USB transmission technology – dubbed “Bulk Pet” – a fixed amount of data is transmitted constantly, leveling out the processing burden on both devices and contributing to stable data transmission.

Changing the processing burden on the computer directly affects audio quality so users can select the setting they prefer (from four transmission modes).

7 types of PCM digital filters
There are seven types of PCM digital filters, allowing you to apply the filter that best matches the file format or type of music you’re listening to. The filter can be changed at the touch of a button on the remote control, allowing you to enjoy the different sonic nuances of each filter.

Dual high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers
The dual monaural theme continues. Two oversized high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers are employed in the NT-505-X, supplying stable, individual current sources for each of the left and right channels. This means neither channel will be affected by changes in the power consumption of the other during digital processing.

Features at a glance:

• • Hi-Res audio playback supporting DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 768kHz/32bit PCM
  • DSD128 (5.6MHz) and PCM 192kHz/24bit Network streaming from NAS/PC
  • ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M converter each for left and right channels
  • 7 types of PCM digital filters
  • Up-conversion up to 24.5MHz DSD and 384kHz/32bit PCM
  • Dual on-board clocks for 44.1kHz and 48kHz frequencies
  • 10MHz external clock input
  • Supports MQA decoding
  • Spotify, TIDAL, and Qobuz music subscription services*1
  • Roon Ready
  • Front USB port supporting Hi-Res playback from USB flash drive
  • Bluetooth® receiver supporting LDAC, Qualcomm® aptX HD, AAC and SBC
  • Original TEAC-HCLD2 enhanced-current output buffer circuit
  • Dual monaural circuit design
  • Dual toroidal-core power transformers for each channel
  • TEAC-QVCS quad volume control system
  • 1/8″ (3.5mm) 4-pole stereo headphone jack supporting ground-separate drive

Full-dot OLED display with dimmer function

• Newly-developed “Stressless Foot” design with three support points
• Semi-floating design Top Panel
• Bulk Pet*2 USB transferring technology with four transfer modes for various sound characters
• Free TEAC HR Audio Player for Windows/Mac
• Free TEAC HR Streamer app for iOS/Android devices
• *1 Not every service is available in every country.
• *2 ”Bulk Pet” is a registered trademark of Interface Corporation.

Spec description

Supported formats
USB input
PCM	16/24/32 bit 44.1k/48k/88.2k/96k/176.4k/192k/352.8k/384k/705.6k/768k Hz
DSD	2.8M/5.6M/11.2M/22.5M Hz
Coaxial digital input
PCM	16/24 bit 32k/44.1k/48k/88.2k/96k/176.4k/192k Hz
DSD	2.8MHz(supported with 176.4kHz/24-bit DoP format)
Optical digital input
PCM	16/24 bit 32k/44.1k/48k/88.2k/96k/176.4k/192k Hz
DSD	2.8MHz(supported with 176.4kHz/24-bit DoP format)
DAC section
USB DAC	ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M ×2
Up-conversion	up to 384kHz/32-bit PCM, 24.5MHz DSD
LAN section
Connector	RJ-45×1(1000Base-T)
MQA Decoder	Built-in
Audio inputs
USB (rear)	USB B port, USB 2.0, asynchronous mode transfer, bulk transfer
Compatible Software	TEAC HR Audio Player (Windows, Macintosh)
COAXIAL digital (rear)	RCA pin×1 (gold-plated)
Input level	0.5Vp-p
Input impedance	75Ω
Optical digital (rear)	TOS-link×1
Input level	-24.0 to -14.5dBm peak
Coaxial digital (front)	1/8” (3.5mm) mini×1 (combined with optical digital input, detected automatically)
Input level	0.5Vp-p
Input impedance	75Ω * 1/8” Mini – RCA conversion cable included.
Optical digital (front)	1/8” Mini Optical×1 (combined with coaxial digital input, detected automatically)
Input level	-24.0 to -14.5dBm peak
USB (front)	USB A port
Supported media	USB Flash Drive
Bluetooth®
Bluetooth® version	4.0
Output class	Class2 (Range: approx. 33ft/10m)
Supported profiles	A2DP, AVRCP
Content protection	SCMS-T
Supported codec	LDAC, Qualcomm® aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
No. of paired device	maximum 8 devices
Audio outputs
XLR balanced	XLR×1 pair (gold-plated)
Output level	Fixed (0dB), fixed (+6dB), variable, output off (selectable)
Maximum output leve	2.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (0dB)) 4.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (+6dB)) 12.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to variable)
Output impedance	188Ω
RCA unbalanced	RCA pin×1 pair (gold-plated)
Output level	Fixed (0dB), fixed (+6dB), variable, output off (selectable)
Maximum output leve	2.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (0dB)) 4.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to fixed (+6dB)) 6.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale, into 10kΩ, when set to variable)
Output impedance	150Ω
Headphone outputs
Connector	1/8” (3.5mm) Stereo TRS jack×1 (gold-plated)
Polarity	Tip:L+, Ring1:R+, Ring3:L-, Sleeve:R-
Maximum output	500mW + 500mW (into 32Ω)
Supported impedances	16 to 600Ω
Clock section
Internal clock
Type	Crystal oscillator
Number of clocks	2 (44.1kHz and 48kHz)
External clock input
Connector	BNC (gold-plated)
Input frequency	10MHz
Input impedance	50Ω
Input level	Rectangle wave: equivalent to TTL levels Sine wave: 0.5 to 1.0 Vrms
Audio performance
Frequency Response	10 to 80,000 Hz (+1/-3 dB, 192kHz PCM input, RCA output, digital filter off)
Total harmonic distortion	0.002% or less (192kHz PCM input, RCA output, digital filter off)
S/N ratio	110dB or higher (192kHz PCM input, RCA output, digital filter off)
Power supply
US/Canada	AC 120V 60Hz
UK/Europe	AC 220 to 240V 50Hz
Power consumption	18W (0.4W in standby)
dimensions (including protrusions)	290(W)×84.5(H)×248.7(D) mm / 11.4”(W)×3.3”(H)×9.8”(D)
Weight	4.1kg / 9.1lbs
Included accessories	Power cord, RCA mini plug adapter cable, remote control (RC-1330),2 AAA batteries for remote control, Owner’s Manual (with warranty)

The post TEAC NT-505-X Network Audio Player / USB DAC / Preamplifier with Bluetooth Capability in Black first appeared on Audiolab Stereo & Video Center.