The RS2 DAC Box is based on our incredibly successful RS2 Digital Pre Box but removes the analog preamp section, reducing the unit to a stand-alone DAC with fixed output. It uses the same great-sounding DAC chips first used in its little brother, the Pre Box S2 Digital. Based on the same core design principles, the feature set is expanded and taken to new heights. The result is a fantastic and very versatile sound box. The perfect companion for anyone looking for a modern DAC with a plethora of digital inputs and a fully balanced circuit board layout.

The DAC Box RS2 is a DAC that uses a dual mono configuration of ESS Saber's top class D/A converters. ESS9038Q2M chips provide the highest sound quality in high-end circuitry at affordable prices. Unlike most DACs in this price range, the DAC Box RS2 features dual DACs and separate signal paths for left and right channels.

Additionally, thanks to these converters, the DAC Box RS2 supports files up to 32bit/768kHz in PCM and DSD (up to DSD512) formats via USB, covering any digital file you might buy or stream. The fixed analog output can be switched between solid state and high quality tube. In this way, the client can choose which of the options is preferred.

The DAC Box RS2 has eight digital filters. One of them is the proprietary optimal transient digital filter from the creators of MQA. With these filters, the listener can customize the sound according to their own preferences.

It comes with full HW and SW support for MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) technology.

The USB input signal is processed by a powerful multi-core XMOS microcontroller with advanced multi-core RISC architecture. The Altera MAX II (Complex Programmable Logic Device) CPLD is used for reclocking, which together with the XMOS microcontroller provides high-quality processing of both classic and MQA technology. For the ideal use of this technology, it is best to connect the DAC Box to our S2 Ultra Stream Box in conjunction with the TIDAL service. You can also enjoy MQA quality by connecting it to our revolutionary new CD transport, the CD Box RS2 T.

The CD Box RS2 T can be connected to the DAC Box RS2 via the reliable I²S differential bus via the HDMI connector where the Pre Box RS2 Digital also provides the master clock (16.9344 MHz).

Included in the packaging is a premium quality aluminum remote control and the DAC Box RS2 is available in a high quality silver or black aluminum case. The large display screen on the front shows all relevant information in an easy-to-read, clean and structured way. Menu navigation is very responsive and fast, allowing you to configure the unit to your preferences in seconds.

Features:

Dual mono DAC: 2x ESS9038Q2M.

Optionally selectable high-quality sampling of PCM and/or MQA content with proprietary filtering.

Advanced clocks powered by the new XMOS chip with RISC Mulit-Core architecture.

6 digital inputs: asynchronous USB, i²S HDMI, AES/EBU, Toslink, coaxial S/PDIF.

Fully balanced double mono design.

Output stage switchable between 6922 tube and solid state.

Ultra linear and ultra low noise.

New high quality screen with fast and responsive UI design.

High quality aluminum remote control included.

Available in silver and black.

2x ESS9038Q2M DAC (dual mono - 32bit/768kHz/DSD512).

Digital inputs 1 x USB 2.0 Audio 32/768 + DoP and Native-DSD up to DSD512.

1 x HDMI I2S for CD case RS2 T.

2 x Optical S/PDIF 24/192.

1 x S/PDIF coaxial 24/192.

1 x AES/EBU balanced 24/192.

Full MQA support MQA being deployed by hardware.

Output impedance 180 Ohm solid state, 220 Ohm tube.

Pre-out analog outputs (XLR and RCA).

THD+N (20Hz - 20kHz) < 0.0008% solid state/0.001% tube @ 2V RMS, 1kHz.

Masterclock output 16.9344MHz for CD Box RS2 T.

Discrete and balanced output buffer, tube and solid state.

4 x 6922EH tubes.

Power supply 20V/3A DC, 110-240V/50, 60 Hz.

Max power consumption. 1.2A DC, <0.5W standby.

Dimensions W x H x D (with plugs) 206 x 72 x 222 mm.

Weight 1520 g without the power supply.