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DACs — Vitus Audio SD-025 MK.II

Description, images, technical data and specifications

Vitus Audio SD-025 MK.II
Image source — © Vitus Audio

The SD-025 Mk.II is the standalone converter and network streamer in the Danish Vitus Audio Signature range. In practice it is the SCD-025 Mk.II CD player without the disc mechanism, keeping the same conversion boards, power supply and output stage. The Mk.II redesign brought new audio boards and a revised supply, and in January 2025 the unit gained certification as a Roon Ready endpoint. Other Signature Series electronics include the SL-103 line stage, the SP-103 phono stage and the SS-103 and SS-025 stereo power amplifiers.

Key specs that matter

Instead of a single stereo chip, Vitus uses two Analog Devices AD1955 converters, each working in mono mode for one channel. Incoming data first passes an Engineered Q8 sample rate converter, and the master clock runs at 24.576 MHz within 5 ppm. Over USB it takes PCM up to 32 bits and 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD128. AES/EBU and coaxial S/PDIF inputs take 24 bits at 192 kHz, a Toslink optical socket handles up to 96 kHz, and an RJ45 port feeds the streaming section. A digital output on XLR or RCA passes 24-bit, 192 kHz data to another device. The analogue outputs, balanced on XLR and single-ended on RCA, have an 80 ohm output impedance, with a stated response past 800 kHz, signal-to-noise ratio above 110 dB at 1 kHz and THD plus noise under 0.01 percent. The aluminium case is 435 mm wide, 428 mm deep and 135 mm high on its feet, and weighs 26 kg. Consumption is 20 W running and below 1 W in standby.

Engineering and use context

Sample rate conversion is done on a dedicated DSP module that can be reprogrammed or replaced, so new digital formats can be supported later without swapping the whole unit. The analogue output stage uses discrete coupling with zero feedback and linear transistors, and Vitus gives its open-loop bandwidth as 2.5 MHz with a very linear phase response. Streaming services supported over the network connection include Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify through Spotify Connect, Deezer and internet radio, handled through Mconnect, UPnP and DLNA or JPLAY, and Roon use requires a separate Roon Core. A USB socket marked for a Wi-Fi dongle offers a wireless connection when no cable is available. Colour choices run from standard Pure White, Jet Black or Warm Silver to optional titanium-toned orange, grey and Dark Champagne.

Pairing

The balanced and single-ended outputs suit a line stage such as the Vitus SL-103 or any integrated amplifier with XLR inputs. The coaxial and AES/EBU inputs let a separate CD transport join the system, and the digital output can drive a recorder or a second converter.

Alternatives

The Vitus Audio MP-D201 Mk.III is the converter in the Masterpiece Series, sold beside the MP-T201 Mk.II CD transport and MP-L201 Mk.II line stage.

Specifications

  • Model name

    SD-025 MK.II

  • Conversion type

    N/A

  • Engine

    N/A

  • DSD compatability

    Yes

  • Parameters

    up to 24 bit / 384kHz and DSD128

  • Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)

    N/A

  • Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)

    800 000

  • Gain (dBu)

    N/A

  • Output Level (balanced) (V)

    N/A

  • Output Level (single-ended) (V)

    N/A

  • Input Impedance (balanced) (Ω)

    N/A

  • Input Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)

    N/A

  • Output Impedance (balanced) (Ω)

    80

  • Output Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)

    80

  • Analog outputs

    N/A

  • Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)

    >110

  • Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)

    <0.01

  • Dimensions (mm)

    135 × 435 × 428

  • Weight (kg)

    26

  • Official link