Twin Sabre conversion, I2S and a Nuvistor output stage
Nu-Vista DAC handles 32/768 PCM, DSD512 and MQA through two ES9038Q2M chips with fixed or variable RCA/XLR output.
Nu-Vista DAC is the range's digital hub: three optical inputs, coaxial, AES/EBU, USB-B and I2S accept transports, computers and Nu-Vista CD2. Two ES9038Q2M converters work in dual differential mode under XMOS and Altera processing; four 7586 Nuvistors form the Class A balanced output buffer. Selectable upsampling, reclocking, oversampling bypass and filters define the path, while variable outputs can drive a power amplifier only with due caution.
Key features
- Twin differential ES9038Q2M DACs
- 32/768 PCM, native DSD512 and MQA
- USB-B, AES/EBU, I2S, coaxial and three optical inputs
- Fixed or variable RCA/XLR outputs
- Input for optional Uni PSU
Inputs with different jobs
USB-B serves a computer and the highest formats; AES/EBU suits balanced transports and I2S the dedicated CD2 link. Optical electrically isolates televisions and consumer sources. Correct choice matters more than simple quantity.
Selectable processing
Reclocking addresses timing, upsampling reconstructs at a higher rate and filters alter interpolation response. Oversampling bypass reduces intervention. These are tools to compare at equal level rather than a universal quality ranking.
Fixed to a pre, variable to a power amplifier
With Nu-Vista PRE the fixed output normally leaves level control to the pre. Variable mode removes one chassis but needs protection from reset, high-level start-up and accidental commands. Volume behaviour must be checked before connecting PAS or PAM.
Four Nuvistors after conversion
The valves do not process bits. They receive the analogue signal from the Sabre chips and prepare it for balanced output. Their position separates analogue output character from DSP options and helps explain the DAC's 21.5 kg weight.
Uni PSU as a separate upgrade
A dedicated input accepts the optional Nu-Vista Uni PSU. The DAC is complete without it; the upgrade further separates power rather than unlocking formats. Roon Tested indicates compatibility, not internal network streaming. Listeners centred on streaming still need a network transport: Roon Tested does not make the DAC a streamer. Its strength is accepting different transports while keeping conversion and analogue output separate. For Nu-Vista DAC, dimensions, weight, ventilation, connections and system capacity should be checked as one project, leaving operating margin instead of using every specification at its limit.
