The DAC Box E is a compact digital-to-analogue converter with one coaxial and one optical input, handling stereo PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz: it is there to improve the output of CD players, Blu-ray or DVD players and set-top boxes.
DAC Box E: the conversion
It sits between a digital source and a line input on the amplifier: the signal arrives as S/PDIF, over coaxial or optical, and leaves in analogue form through two gold-plated RCA sockets. Conversion is handled by a CS4344 chip rated at 24-bit / 192 kHz, followed by a low-noise output stage. The optical input accepts sampling rates of 44.1, 48 and 96 kHz, while 192 kHz is reserved for the coaxial input.
The circuit, built with surface-mount parts, is designed for a linear response and a low output impedance, so that cables and the preamplifier downstream have little influence on it. A metal shield inside the case protects the audio section from interference. Bear in mind that the DAC Box E works with two-channel PCM only: multi-channel formats are not accepted.
Its modest size, 120 x 32 x 100 mm and 250 g, makes it easy to place right beside the source. The 18 V external adaptor comes in the box; in use the unit draws 200 mA and at idle consumption falls below 1 W. Output voltage is 0.7 Vrms.
Specifications
- Type: digital-to-analogue converter (DAC)
- Converter chip: CS4344, 24-bit / 192 kHz
- Digital ins: one S/PDIF coaxial, one Toslink optical
- Accepted format: two-channel PCM, multi-channel not handled
- Sampling rates: 44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz; 192 kHz via coaxial only
- Line out: two gold-plated RCA sockets
- Output level: 0.7 Vrms
- Build: SMD circuit, metal shield inside the case
- Power: supplied external adaptor, 18 V / 500 mA DC
- Current draw: 200 mA DC, under 1 W at idle
- Size (width x height x depth): 120 x 32 x 100 mm, 106 mm including sockets
- Weight: 250 g, adaptor excluded
- Finishes: black, white
