D50

The D50 is a standalone DAC that converts digital audio from USB, optical, coaxial RCA, coaxial BNC and AES/EBU sources to analog. USB handles up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD256 (DoP), while the coaxial and AES/EBU inputs accept 24-bit/192 kHz and DSD64 (DoP). MQA 8x is supported on all inputs.

The design focuses on keeping noise low. Two shielded toroidal transformers separate the digital and standby circuits from the sensitive analog and digital sections, and the mains input is filtered. Incoming SPDIF and USB signals are reclocked by three master clocks (one for SPDIF, and separate ones for 48k and 44.1k USB rates). The AES/EBU input uses an RS422 receiver balanced by a transformer. The DAC chip sits on a separate raised board.

In use, the D50 senses a digital signal and can wake automatically, either switching input or only powering on. It also offers automatic standby and display dimming. The case is aluminium with a milled aluminium front plate that hides the buttons, and a display shows status. Analog output is fixed-level at 2.5 V on both XLR and RCA.