DACs — CH Precision C1.2

The C1.2 is an R2R DAC from CH Precision, built around four PCM1704 conversion chips. CH Precision is a Swiss manufacturer with an uncompromising reputation for reference-tier electronics, and this R2R-based converter reflects that broader engineering ambition applied specifically to digital-to-analogue conversion.

Position in line

It sits alongside the C10 in CH Precision's DAC range, with a C1.2 Mono variant also available for a fully dual-mono configuration. This positioning alongside the C10, plus the availability of a mono variant, suggests CH Precision offers flexible configuration options within its DAC catalogue for buyers wanting maximum channel separation.

Key specs that matter

The conversion engine uses four PCM1704 R2R chips. It handles PCM up to 24-bit/768kHz and DSD via DoP up to DSD512. Signal-to-noise is 120 dB with distortion at 0.001%. At 440 x 440 x 133 mm and 20 kg it is a substantial chassis, consistent with CH Precision's characteristically serious build quality.

Sound and use context

Expect the distinctive character often associated with R2R ladder conversion, delivered through a four-chip array rather than a single delta-sigma chip - an engaging performer for listeners specifically drawn to the R2R conversion approach's reputation within the enthusiast community.

Pairing

Standard outputs work with any preamplifier or integrated amplifier accepting a conventional source connection, so integration should present no particular difficulty.

Alternatives

The C10 sits alongside this model in CH Precision's DAC range; a C1.2 Mono variant is also available for a fully dual-mono configuration, worth considering if maximum channel separation and isolation matter for a specific reference-tier system. CH Precision relatively small dealer network worldwide means sourcing a specialist familiar with the brand specific engineering is well worth the extra research effort before committing to a purchase at this level. Given the considerable price this converter represents, a dealer demonstration alongside a matching CH Precision preamplifier is strongly recommended before any purchase decision. Overall this remains an uncompromising R2R conversion choice reflecting CH Precision characteristic Swiss engineering. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare this model against both the C10 and the Mono variant.