A never ending story: upgrading to the Optologic DAC

The MK3 represents more than a simple upgrade for our La Scala DAC.

This version of course includes all the improvements introduced in the recent past, such as C-core transformers, digital AQlink, USB card, etc. but a new analog module is incredibly crucial for the Sound Quality.

In addition to VALVE / MOSFET hybrid circuitry, a new module developed from scratch in our laboratories: PIBU (PIlot BUffer).

The most important advantage provided by this new module is the elimination of the output capacitors - no longer present on MK3. Thiscoupled with the high output current and its incredible preamp piloting skills of PIBUachieves important improvements, able to combine state-of-the art electronics and musicality.

All this is highlighted during the listening tests: we therefore believe that MK3 represents an important step in refining the already excellent sound rendering of La Scala.

As usual, it is possible to upgrade to MK3 the previous versions of the La Scala DAC

So, current Owners, have the opportunity to upgrade their unit in order to reach to the revolutionary Optologic D/A conversion system. 

Again, La Scala D/A converter proves that an instant classic does not mean a product whose destiny is to become obsolescent, like most of the products in the high-end world.
After the first appearance in the flagship Formula DAC, the proprietary D/A conversion system developed by Aqua is now available for La Scala MKIII dac.
So, current Owners, have the opportunity to upgrade their unit in order to reach to the revolutionary Optologic D/A conversion system.
The already extraordinary sound quality of this icon is now improved in every aspect: time coherence, microdynamics, timbre, and without losing that magic atmosphere for which La Scala is widely renowned.
La Scala MKIII keeps the VALVE / MOSFET hybrid circuitry, with now a pair of specially selected ECC81 tubes - a High-Frequency triode - for its extremely low noise and superb transparency.

Features

• High performance proprietary FPGA-based digital decoding without digital filter
• Galvanic and magnetic isolations between the FPGA and R2R ladder converter
• Discrete R2R ladder DACs with low noise precision resistors
• Jitter free digital interface AQlink (I2S protocol), uncompromising digital connection to La Diva cd transport
• Zero S/PDIF Jitter design, digital receiver stage PLL (phase locked loop) technology
• High-performance AQ Discrete Regulator (MOSFET, J-FET, BJT) for analog and digital DACs power supply
• Valve-Mosfet direct coupling analog stage in pure class-A without negative feedback
• MOSFET Virtual battery circuit for analog anode supply
• Soft-start power up for extended tube life
• etherCON RJ45 (AQlink) input connection, employs CAT6 cable can connect both RJ45 and professional etherCON RJ45
• 2 separate low noise power transformers, one for the analog and one for the digital section
• MODULAR DESIGN with upgradeable multi board system
• Regulated DC filament supplies with soft start for tubes
• Fully discrete analog stage, not even a single Op-Amp is used
• Proprietary USB Firmware / driver : Apple MAC OS - Linux OS : USB asynchronous native support, no need to install drivers software
• Fully upgradeable asynchronous USB module with resolution 44.1kHz to 384kHz PCM up to 24 bits, DSD64, DSD128, operates with computers running OSX 10.7 and above, WINDOWS 10 , 8 , 7 and XP ASIO - WASAPI bit perfect high-speed
• Digital phase selector on front panel
• High-quality parts selected for sound quality:
  • 105° long life capacitors
  • low noise Metal Foil ultra-precision resistors
  • double metallized film pulse capacitor
  • ultra-fast diodes
  • halogen free cables
• Aluminium anti-resonant cabinet with Nextel
• RC5 IR remote controller (optional)
• Designed and handmade in Italy
• Input:
  • RJ45 AQlink (I2S serial bus) - PCM 24 bit / 384kHz DSD64, DSD128 via DoP
  • BNC coax (S/PDIF) 75 ohm - PCM 24 bit / 192kHz DSD64 via DoP
  • RCA coax (S/PDIF) 75 ohm - PCM 24 bit / 192kHz DSD64 via DoP
  • AES/EBU balanced 110 ohm - PCM 24 bit / 192kHz DSD64 via DoP
  • USB port - PCM 24 bit / 384kHz DSD64, DSD128 via DoP
  • AT&T (ST Fiber) - PCM 24 bit / 192kHz DSD64 via DoP (optional)
• Analog output:
  • RCA single-ended
  • XLR balanced with transformer