Hardware & Audio Architecture
- DAC Topology: Uses four 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC chips (two per audio channel) in a balanced configuration for exceptional channel separation and ultra-low noise.
- Discrete Output Stages: Equipped with Weiss OP2-BP operational amplifiers that push the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) to an outstanding 128 dB.
- Power Supply: Features a robust linear power supply powered by dual toroidal transformers. It utilizes independent regulators for the left and right channels to eliminate cross-talk and digital noise interference.
- Clocking: Incorporates an ultra-low jitter master clock system with an internal 195 kHz re-clocking mechanism to mitigate timing errors entirely.
- 4-Channel Architecture: The MK2 hardware natively supports 4-channel simultaneous playback, laying the groundwork for future multi-subwoofer setups or surround sound integration.
Connectivity & Format Support
- Supported Formats: Accepts PCM from 44.1 kHz up to 384 kHz / 32-bit, alongside DSD64 and DSD128 via USB and Ethernet inputs.
- Digital Inputs:
- 1 x AES/EBU (XLR)
- 1 x S/PDIF (Coaxial RCA)
- 1 x Toslink (Optical)
- 1 x USB Type-B
- 1 x RJ45 Ethernet
- Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR, Unbalanced RCA, and a dedicated 6.3mm (1/4″) headphone jack on the front panel. (Note: The DAC501 MK2 features a compact, half-width chassis. Its larger sibling, the DAC502 MK2, shares identical internal electronics but uses a full-width chassis to include a 4-pin XLR balanced headphone port on the back).
- Streaming Compatibility: Roon Ready, UPnP/DLNA certified. It streams directly from high-resolution platforms like Tidal and Qobuz through your local network.
Advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) Features
Driven by a high-performance SHARC DSP chip, the DAC501 MK2 allows users to fine-tune their audio without any signal degradation. Every processing module can be independently bypassed (defeated):
- Room Equalizer: A 5-band parametric EQ engineered to eliminate low-frequency room modes and bass booms.
- Creative Equalizer: Precision tone control (bass, treble, and midrange adjustment) to correct poorly mastered recordings.
- De-Esser: Automatically attenuates harsh, sibilant vocal sounds (like sharp “S” sounds) for a smoother presentation.
- Vinyl Emulation: Imparts the warm harmonic character and sonics of a vintage turntable setup onto digital files.
- Crosstalk Cancelling (XTC): Minimizes acoustic crosstalk for speaker listening, creating an immersive, 3D sturdiest-like soundstage.
- Headphone Equalization: Includes pre-configured EQ curves tailored for specific high-end headphone brands (such as Audeze) to optimize their frequency response.
Build Quality & Control Options
- Premium Chassis: Built with a stainless steel frame wrapped in a 10 mm thick solid aluminum front panel.
- Form Factor: Compact, space-saving design measuring 18.8 cm (W) x 30 cm (D) x 6.6 cm (H).
- Interface & Web UI: Features a color touch-screen LCD and a multi-functional rotary encoder on the front panel. For advanced setup, it includes an IR remote control and a dedicated Web Interface accessible via any internet browser on your local network.
