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DACs — Audio Research DAC 9
Description, images, technical data and specifications
Audio Research DAC 9
Image source — © Audio Research
The DAC 9 is an accomplished digital-to-analogue converter from Audio Research, decoding advanced digital formats using the brand's celebrated tube-cascade technology. The DAC 9 brings Audio Research's most storied American engineering to standalone digital conversion with a distinctive valve-based output stage.
Key specs that matter
Five digital inputs are provided - USB, RCA, BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink - covering essentially any digital source. Full DSD compatibility is included, with PCM support up to 24-bit/384kHz. The comprehensive Quad DAC architecture provides a balanced digital signal path for wide dynamic range. Frequency response spans an exceptional 6Hz to 192,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Output level reaches 5.0V balanced or 2.5V single-ended, with signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 114dB. At 480 x 178 x 394mm and 14.6kg, the DAC 9 maintains a substantial tube-output DAC chassis reflecting Audio Research's considered engineering standards.
Sound and use context
Expect the exceptionally rich, harmonically engaging character Audio Research's tube-cascade output stage is broadly celebrated for, with the Quad DAC architecture's balanced digital signal path delivering wide dynamic range alongside the valve stage's characteristic warmth.
Pairing
The five digital inputs allow the DAC 9 to serve as the central digital hub for a comprehensive source collection, and Audio Research's own preamplifier catalogue offers natural, brand-coherent pairings.
Alternatives
Audio Research's own broader DAC catalogue offers related alternatives at different scales within the same considered tube-output engineering philosophy.
Key specs that matter
Five digital inputs are provided - USB, RCA, BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink - covering essentially any digital source. Full DSD compatibility is included, with PCM support up to 24-bit/384kHz. The comprehensive Quad DAC architecture provides a balanced digital signal path for wide dynamic range. Frequency response spans an exceptional 6Hz to 192,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Output level reaches 5.0V balanced or 2.5V single-ended, with signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 114dB. At 480 x 178 x 394mm and 14.6kg, the DAC 9 maintains a substantial tube-output DAC chassis reflecting Audio Research's considered engineering standards.
Sound and use context
Expect the exceptionally rich, harmonically engaging character Audio Research's tube-cascade output stage is broadly celebrated for, with the Quad DAC architecture's balanced digital signal path delivering wide dynamic range alongside the valve stage's characteristic warmth.
Pairing
The five digital inputs allow the DAC 9 to serve as the central digital hub for a comprehensive source collection, and Audio Research's own preamplifier catalogue offers natural, brand-coherent pairings.
Alternatives
Audio Research's own broader DAC catalogue offers related alternatives at different scales within the same considered tube-output engineering philosophy.
Specifications
Model name
DAC 9
Conversion type
N/A
Engine
N/A
DSD compatability
Yes
Parameters
up to 24 bit / 384kHz
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
6
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
192 000
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Output Level (balanced) (V)
5.0
Output Level (single-ended) (V)
2.5
Input Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Input Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Analog outputs
N/A
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
>114
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)
N/A
Dimensions (mm)
480 × 178 × 394
Weight (kg)
14.6
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