General characteristics and architecture of the DAC/AMP
The Aune S6 integrates a high-resolution DAC and a headphone amplifier + line outputs in a single desktop unit. The DAC uses the AKM AK4495S chip, with support for up to 32-bit / 384 kHz on USB input and DSD (DSD64, DSD128) and DXD 32-bit / 384 kHz decoding, ensuring wide compatibility with modern digital sources. The digital section uses an asynchronous XMOS interface , isolation and two high-precision clocks to reduce jitter and noise. The unit offers multiple digital input options (USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU) and both unbalanced (RCA) and balanced (XLR) stereo analog outputs , as well as a balanced 4-pole headphone output and a standard 6.35 mm jack.
Audio performance, amplification and operational flexibility
The audio conversion and amplification are designed to deliver clean, dynamic and detailed sound : the frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz , the harmonic distortion is 0.0008% at 1 kHz , while the dynamic range reaches 116 dB with crosstalk of –132 dB . With balanced 300 Ω headphones the output delivers 246 mW , sufficient for most Hi-Fi headphones; with unbalanced output it offers 72 mW @ 300 Ω . The line output on RCA reaches 2 Vrms , on XLR 4.2 Vrms , making the S6 suitable for both headphone systems and systems with an external amplifier or active speakers.
Ideal context of use and strengths
The Aune S6 is designed for those looking for a versatile and complete DAC/AMP as the centerpiece of a desktop or living room audio system: ideal for Hi-Fi listening with medium-high range headphones or for connecting to stereo systems with separate amplification . The presence of balanced and unbalanced outputs , multiple digital inputs and support for high-resolution formats make it suitable for liquid music, streaming, high-quality files or PC / external DAC sources .
Technical features
| Characteristic |
Details |
| DAC |
AKM AK4495S TRUTH |
| Resolution / Supported Formats |
up to 32-bit / 384 kHz (USB); DSD64, DSD128, DXD 32-bit/384 kHz |
| Digital inputs |
Asynchronous USB (XMOS), Coaxial, Optical Toslink, AES/EBU XLR |
| Analog outputs |
Unbalanced stereo RCA, balanced XLR |
| Headphone output |
Balanced 4-pole + Asymmetrical 6.35 mm Jack |
| Headphone power (300 Ω) |
246 mW (balanced) / 72 mW (unbalanced) |
| Frequency response |
20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) |
0.0008% @ 1 kHz |
| Dynamics |
116 dB |
| Crosstalk |
–132 dB |
| Line output voltage |
2 Vrms (RCA), 4.2 Vrms (XLR) |
| Selectable line mute outputs |
Yes (for headphone listening without RCA/XLR line) |
| Chassis / construction |
Aluminum, black or silver finish |
| Dimensions |
288 × 211 × 63 mm |
| Weight |
about 3 kg |