Digital Analog Converter DAC-9
Engineered to meet the needs of the most demanding audio purists
while also providing the greatest degree of flexibility, the NuForce
DAC-9 is a true reference-class digital-to-analog stereo converter,
pre-amplifier and headphone amplifier in one supremely sophisticated
package. As to versatility, with its six digital inputs, the DAC-9
offers compatibility with all existing digital formats.
And, in keeping with NuForce’s commitment to its customers, plug-in
USB module/interfaces will always provide for upgradeability to
higher bit rates, thereby securing the end-user’s investment as
digital technology continues to advance.
The DAC-9 addresses the need for complexity on a foundation of
remarkable simplicity. Minimal processing and the shortest possible
signal paths set the DAC-9 apart. For example, when an input source
is selected, a pair of high-performance DACs offer up to
24-bit/192kHz (24bit/96kHz for USB) conversion of digital audio
data. Extensive testing and listening tell us that up-sampling and
sample-rate conversion do more harm than good, as does negative
feedback. Consequently, no form of sample-rate conversion is ever
employed.
Summing the output of two DACs increases the signal-to-noise ratio
to near-theoretical limits wherein every musical nuance stands out
in brilliant contrast to a background of utter silence. As a further
enhancement, an innovative Passive IV Digital Output Filter
assures lifelike musical reproduction. The DAC-9’s passive
circuit employs no negative feedback of any kind, thus providing a
ripple-free response wherein high-frequency phase coherence is
always maintained.
Beyond the DACs and digital filter, the converted signal passes on
to the analog preamplifier stage, which also adheres minimalist
design principles. Again, NuForce applies no negative feedback in
order, among other good reasons, to avoid higher-order distortion
artifacts that typically plague unnecessarily complicated designs.
The quietest circuitry components and layouts, along with the
shortest possible signal paths, likewise contribute to the DAC-9’s
exemplary performance characteristics. As another pathway to a
“straight-wire-with-gain” end, when the user selects Fixed-Mode
Output, the digitally controlled, precision volume attenuator is
bypassed via means of a precision mechanical relay.
As impressive as these refinements are, the DAC-9 would not be
nearly so successful without the clean, stable energy a
shunt-regulated linear power supply provides. With its multiple
regulation stages, the power supply allows the DAC-9’s digital and
analog circuits to operate to their fullest potential, with the
lowest noise and distortion possible.
Nor has NuForce overlooked the needs of the dedicated headphone
listener. The DAC-9 includes a fully independent, high-performance
headphone stage with a dedicated volume control. The DAC-9’s 6.3mm
and 3.5mm headphone jacks sidestep the inconvenience and potential
distortion of external plug adaptors. The DAC-9’s exceptional value
and versatility is exemplified by the unit’s remote control, which
beyond its array of usual conveniences, operates other NuForce
devices such as our P-9 Preamp and CDP-8 CD Player. Moreover, the
DAC-9’s sleek touch panel and low-profile chassis make a visually
attractive addition to the finest playback systems.
NuForce strives, as always, to achieve superior performance by means
of the purest and therefore simplest of design concepts. We’re
confident that you will find the NuForce DAC-9 Digital-to-Analog
Converter, Preamp and Headphone Amp to be the ideal answer to your
listening requirements. Price notwithstanding, few competing
products can compare to the DAC-9’s sonic excellence, simple
elegance, and of course convenience. When one then takes into
account the exceptional value the DAC-9 represents, we’re sure
you'll agree it's in a class of its own