Powerful DAC / Preamp Bristling with Performance-Enhancing Features
The NuPrime Evolution DAC-2 is definitely ready for prime time. Accommodating and enhancing both digital and analog sources, this highly capable DAC and preamp utilizes dual ESS Technology 32-bit audio DAC ESS9038Q2M to decode independently left and proper channels for improved channel separation and reduce overall noise. It supports nine digital inputs and two analog inputs for complete system flexibility.
The power circuit uses C-Core transformers to meet the highest performance requirement of the NuPrime Evolution Series. PSRC IC chip provides sampling rate up/down conversion from PCM 44.1kHz to PCM 768kHz and DSD64 to DSD512.
Sample Rate Conversion and Processing
The NuPrime PSRC IC chip provides sample rate up/down conversion processing, from PCM 44.1kHz to PCM 768kHz and DSD64 to DSD512 (including PCM to/from DSD). A proprietary NuPrime implementation can decode DoP formats via coaxial and optical inputs. This feature supports NuPrime source and server devices that are able to output the DoP stream in addition to S/PDIF.
The USB uses asynchronous transfer mode for jitter control and supports DSD native playback by ASIO and DoP method. DSD is decoded natively with the same sample rate as the input source. All of the digital inputs support native MQA decoding.
Nine Digital Inputs, Two Analog
The Evolution DAC-2 is ready for both your analog and digital sources. Nine digital inputs and two analog inputs provide a powerful connectivity array along with complete system flexibility. Individually adjustable volume on each input gives you precise level matching of sources. NuPrime's full microprocessor control offers memory retention for all inputs for smooth listening as you switch from source to source. The custom designed non-linear volume curve gives you convenient precision control of listening levels.
Output levels give you a choice of variable mode (for preamp use) or fixed mode (for line level output). Special settings are provided for the Evolution DAC-2's analog outputs, for even more flexibility. Both of the two analog outputs can be set to output right channel, left channel, right + left, or left + right. The two analog outputs consist of one pair of balanced XLR outs and one pair of unbalance RCA outs.
Ultra-Quiet C-Core Transformer and Large Capacitor Bank
The filtered AC power is then fed to the AC power supply that utilizes C-Core transformers which has less stray flux than conventional ring type transformers. The stainless steel enclosures for the power supply provides shielding to minimize the transformer noise interference affecting other sensitive circuitry.
A large capacitor bank (around 60,000uF) using specialized capacitors, supplies ample and stable power to the analog and digital circuitry.
A Reference-Class Preamp
The Evolution DAC-2 includes a reference class preamp that utilizes Nisshinbo Micro Device’s MUSES8820 operational amplifier and MUSES72320V electronic volume as its preamplifier circuit architecture.
The MUSES8820 op-amp is optimized for high-end audio equipment, producing the finest sound quality that emulates the live performance of an orchestra in a hall.
The MUSES72320 is a two-channel electronic volume control designed with advanced circuitry and layout for high-end audio applications. It has low noise and distortion characteristics and utilizes a resistance ladder circuit for highly linear volume control of hi-fi audio systems.
Together, the MUSES8820 and the MUSES72320V make the Evolution DAC-2 an exceptional preamp, capable of producing a high-quality sound that accurately captures the nuances and details of a live performance.
More Perks
Other performance-enhancing features include display brightness adjustment, NuPrime vibration-free isolation feet, and exclusive driver software for Windows (standard driver software for Mac). The sleek, modern chassis is available in either a black or silver anodized aluminum finish
