Description
Digital-to-analog converter with tube output stage.
Introduced
1994
Discontinued
2000
Revisions
DAC3 MKII (1996)
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The DAC3MKII uses a high-performance monolithic input receiver and a delta-sigma converter supplied to Audio Research by Crystal Semiconductor. The differential converter is capable of 107 dB dynamic range in the audio band, and includes 8x interpolation and a 64x oversampled delta-sigma modulator which outputs to an all-tube (four 6922 twin triodes), class A operation analog output stage. Constant-current source technology and highly regulated power supplies similar to Audio Research's best preamplifiers contribute to the natural musicality of the output stage. The suppression of sonically destructive jitter in the DAC3MKII is accomplished via three primary methods: by two voltage-control oscillators used to reclock data in the digital interface and in a phase-lock-loop circuit just prior to the analog stage; and by extensive internal damping of critical components and chassis areas to minimize mechanical resonances.A detachable AC line cord has built-in filtering. Among other conveniences, the DAC3MKII offers selectable phase inversion via a front-panel toggle switch. The DAC3MKII offers a full array of digital inputs for compatibility with any high-quality CD/LD transport or player, and provides both-single ended and balanced analog output connectors for similar compatibility with high-quality line-level preamplifiers. Audiophile-grade digital and analog interconnects such as Audio Research brand DigitaLink and LitzLink2 are strongly recommended for best performance. |
Options
Platinum grey faceplate.
MSRP (US new retail)
$3,995
$3,995. Later increased to $4,495. Later increased to $4,995. (DAC3 MKII)
Specifications
DAC3 MKII:
| Frequency response | 0.1-20,000Hz, ± .2dB |
|---|---|
| Distortion | -86dB (0.005%) 1kHz |
| S/N ratio | 90 dB (unweighted 20-20,000Hz) |
| Phase linearity | ±0.5° (20-20, 000Hz) |
| Channel separation | 120dB (1kHz) |
| Resolution | 1 bit, 64x Oversampling delta-sigma, 8x interpolation |
| Output impedance | 200 ohms unbalanced, 400 ohms balanced |
| Analog outputs | 1.50 Vrms (+5dBV full output) |
| Unbalanced RCA Phono Jacks 3.00 Vrms (+11dbv full lntput) | |
| Balanced XLR Jacks | |
| Digital outputs | TOSLINK Optical 660nm (digital pass-through) |
| Digital inputs | ST type glass fiber optics; 1300 nm, 62.5/125 fiber |
| TOSLINK fiber optics 660nm | |
| (Switch selectable): BNC coax 75 ohm (SPDIF) or XLR Balanced AES/EBU | |
| Tube complement | (4) 6922 |
| Power requirements | 95-135VAC 60Hz (190-270VAC 50/60Hz), 55 watts maximum |
| Other | Format: 32kHz (DBS), 44.1kHz (CD), 48kHz (DAT). Input resolution: 18 bits (maximum). Reclocking method: PLL x 2. 2nd PLL corner frequency @ 12Hz. Inverting switch: Digital Domain. Panel indicators: Power On, Digital Lock. Compliance: RF interference complies with FCC and VDE. Power supply: 2 Transformers, 2 Discrete Regulators, 8 IC Regulators. Line fuse: 1 1/2A slo-blo (3/4A slo-blo 240V). |
| Dimensions | 19" (48 cm) W x 5.25" (13.4 cm) H x 11.75" (29.8 cm) D. Handles extend 1.50" (3.8 cm) forward of front panel. Rear chassis fittings extend .75" (2.3 cm) |
| Weight | 15.2 lbs. (6.9 kg) Net; 27 lbs. (12.3 kg) Shipping. |
Reviews
Pictures
DAC3 MKII:
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