Audio Research
Audio Research DAC 9
Audio Research DAC 9
Audio Research DAC 9
The DAC 9 digital-to-analog converter decodes most current formats with state-of-the-art vacuum tube technology. Five digital connections - USB, RCA, BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink - provide connectivity to all of your digital sources. Quad DAC architecture provides a balanced digital signal, wide dynamic range, and decoding resolutions from red book CD up to 384 kHz and native DSD sampling rates. A pair of 6H30 vacuum tubes are the heart of the analog circuit. Both balanced and single-ended connectors are provided for output connectivity. Native-rate upsampling and selectable digital filters allow customization of the digital signal.
Cutting-edge engineering on the digital side mates to a vacuum tube analog section that uses a pair of 6H30 dual triode tubes. The DAC 9 is a balanced design with a Class-A, zero-feedback analog section and no capacitive coupling. Like other products that have preceded it, the DAC 9 combines remarkable resolution with relaxed musicality. Audio Research’s sonic legacy—clarity, dynamics, dimensionality and musical authority—are obvious and thoroughly engaging.
Inputs
USB 2.0 HS (480 Mbps): 44.1 to 384 kHz, DSD (2.28225 mHz), 2xDSD (5.6448 mHz); RCA (75Ω SPDIF): 44.1 to 192 kHz; BNC (75Ω SPDIF): 44.1 to 192 kHz; XLR (110Ω SPDIF): 44.1 to 192 kHz; AES/ EBU: 44.1 to 192 kHz; Optical (660 nM Toslink ber): 44.1to 96 kHz
Outputs
XLR, RCA
Rated Outputs
3.8V max balanced; 1.9V max single-ended
Tube complement
2 - 6H30P dual triodes
Dimensions
Width:19” (48 cm)
Height: 6.5” (13.7 cm)
Depth: 13.7” (34.8 cm)
Handles extend 1.6” (4 cm) forward of the front panel
Weight
13.9 lbs. (6.3 kg) Net; 20.4 lbs. (9.3 kg) Shipping
Intrinsic jitter
<10 pS
