Audiolab is proud to re-enter the scene with the launch of the Audiolab D7 DAC, a compact, high-performance digital-to-analogue converter built on the legacy of the iconic M-DAC. The D7 distils years of refinement and engineering into a sleek, compact aluminium chassis.
Drawing heavily on the DNA of its celebrated predecessor, the D7 promises elevated digital audio for both desktop and hi-fi systems. With its robust design and affordable price, it fills a much-needed gap in the audiophile market, delivering cutting-edge performance without the need for large, expensive components. This launch underscores Audiolab 's unparalleled expertise in DAC development and its ongoing dedication to audio excellence.
At the heart of the Audiolab D7 DAC is ESS Technology's ES9038Q2M DAC chip, a high-quality 32-bit processor known for its ultra-low noise and high dynamic range. This chip builds on the legacy ES9018 used in the original M-DAC, but with advanced features such as HyperStream II architecture and time-domain jitter eliminator for incredible audio accuracy.
While many manufacturers use Sabre DAC chips, Audiolab 's years of refinement and in-depth knowledge of ESS implementation give the D7 a distinct advantage in sound quality. Together with a Class A active post-DAC filter and a proprietary clock and power supply design, this DAC extracts a natural, dynamic performance from every digital source.
Despite its compact size, the Audiolab D7 DAC is packed with connectivity options, making it a versatile hub for modern digital setups. It includes USB Type B for PC/Mac connections, USB Type A for media playback from flash drives and four S/PDIF digital inputs (two optical, two coaxial).
Bluetooth 5.1 support enables high-resolution wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets, including aptX HD for enhanced fidelity. Users can sample audio at 352.8 kHz or 384 kHz and choose from five digital filter settings to tailor playback to their personal preferences.
These settings make the D7 especially effective when working with a variety of source material, whether high-resolution files or compressed streaming content.
The Audiolab D7 DAC offers a comprehensive set of output options for integration into any audio system. On the analogue side, it offers balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs, allowing users to connect to integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers or even directly to power amplifiers and powered speakers. Digital outputs are coaxial and optical for added flexibility.
Headphone enthusiasts are not left out either, thanks to a 6.3 mm front jack and a dedicated internal headphone amplifier. The analogue output can operate in fixed or variable mode, allowing it to be used as a DAC-only source or as a digital preamplifier with volume control managed by the D7 itself.
Internally, the D7 DAC from Audiolab is meticulously engineered by novomusica. The design is optimised to protect signal integrity, with independent low-noise power supplies for the key stages powered by an external power supply. This eliminates interference and maintains the unit's pristine sonic signature. Physical controls are simple yet tactile, with rotary dials for intuitive operation.
A crisp monochrome OLED display provides essential information, such as novomusic input selection and audio format, enhancing ease of use without clutter. Available in silver or black finishes, the D7 exudes an understated sophistication that combines form and function for those who appreciate sonic and visual elegance in their audio equipment.
The D7 DAC from Audiolab is not only an exceptional digital source for complete hi-fi systems, but also excels as a stand-alone desktop headphone amplifier. The unit delivers 500 mW into a 33 ohm load, with an output voltage of up to 4.8 Vrms and a maximum output current of 180 mA, ensuring that it can comfortably drive even demanding headphones with finesse and authority.
Its wide bandwidth, high slew rate and low output impedance result in dynamic, distortion-free reproduction over a wide range of headphone types. Whether part of a larger system or used for private listening, the D7 delivers exceptional audio quality with clarity and control every time.
Features:
Available soon. Pre-orders are being accepted and will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis as the first units arrive in Spain
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