The DAC Box RS2 features a very sophisticated digital stage, with a dual-mono configuration of the high-class ESS Sabre ESS9038Q2M DAC chips, featuring upsampling technology. Unlike most other designs, it boasts dual DAC chips and separate signal paths for the left and right channels. This allows for the finest conversion possible and support for digital transmission up-to 32-bit / 768kHz PCM and DSD512 over USB. There's also full authorisation and hardware/software support for Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) audio files, and Roon Tested certification for quick integration into a Roon-based system. To handle all this complexity, the DAC Box RS2's USB input is processed by a powerful multi-core XMOS microcontroller with advanced Multi-Core RISC architecture. The CPLD MAX II (Complex Programmable Logic Device) Altera is used for re-clocking, which together with the XMOS microcontroller brings high-quality processing of both traditional and MQA source material. 

In addition to the extensive USB options, the DAC Box RS2 can also connect directly to the matching CD Box RS2 T via a proprietary HDMI connection that carries I²S and the master clock (16,9344 MHz) signal. There are also additional optical, coaxial, AES/EBU and wireless Bluetooth (v4.0) digital connections to take care of all other possible sources, including a smartphone or tablet. 

For sound personalisation, the DAC Box RS2 offers a switchable solid-state / 6922 tube output stage. Then there are also eight (8) digital filters, including a proprietary optimal transient digital filter designed by the creators of MQA, for further customisation of the end performance. 

For ease of use, the DAC Box RS2 is equipped with a large LCD display that matches the CD Box RS2 T design. Control is best achieved with the supplied aluminium IR remote, where the extensive setting options menu can be navigated with ease to fully personalise your experience. The DAC Box RS2 is a truly complete solution, and is available in high-quality aluminium black or silver finish.

Specifications

• MQA Compatibility: Full MQA Decoding
• Roon Support: Roon Tested
• Frequency Response (20 - 20,000Hz): -0.1, -0.2 dB
• Valves: 4 x 6922EH
• Output Level (Unbalanced): 2 V
• Output Level (Balanced): 4 V
• Signal To Noise Ratio: > 113 dB
• THD +N (Solid State Output): < 0.0008 %
• THD +N (Valve Output): 0.001 %
• I2S Input: HDMI (for CD Box RS2 T)
• Optical Input(s): 2 (24-bit, 192kHz)
• Coaxial Input(s): 1 (24-bit, 192kHz)
• AES/EBU Input(s): 1 (24-bit, 192kHz)
• USB Digital Input: 1 x USB 2.0
• DAC Chip: Dual-Mono ES9038Q2M
• File Limit Support (PCM): 32-bit, 768kHz
• DAC Filters: 8
• Master Clock Connection: 16,9344MHz for CD Box RS2 T
• File Limit Support (DSD): DSD512
• Fixed Analogue Output(s): 1 x RCA Pair, 1 x XLR Pair
• Trigger Connection: Y
• External Power Supply Rating: 20V-3A DC
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 206 x 72 x 222 mm
• Weight: 1.52 kg